If You Didn't Know About These 11 Swimming Holes In Massachusetts, You've Been Missing Out
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Sophia
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On a hot, sticky summer day, there’s nothing like diving into one of the cool, refreshing swimming holes in Massachusetts. Luckily, our state is peppered with plenty of delightful places to spend some time in the water. From hidden forest ponds to gorgeous coastal spots, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best swimming holes in Massachusetts that you really need to know about.
Hathaway's Ponds, Barnstable, MA 02630, USA
This place has exceptionally clear and blue water. Plus, Hathaway's Pond is not as well known as many Cape Cod beaches so the tourists are few and far between. Bring the whole family for a dip in the warm waters and spend some time relaxing on the soft sand beach.
Take a look at the serene Hathaway's Pond in Barnstable Massachusetts in this video from The Soul. Not only is it an incredible place to kayak it is also one of our favorites places to swim in Massachusetts:
Take a look at the serene Hathaway's Pond in Barnstable Massachusetts in this video from The Soul. Not only is it an incredible place to kayak it is also one of our favorites places to swim in Massachusetts:
Deerfield River Portage, MA-116 &, Roaring Brook Rd, Conway, MA 01341, USA
If you want to spend some relaxing time on the water, there's no better place to do it than with the Deerfield River Portage lazy river experience. This company will drive you to and from the river, give you a sturdy inner tube, and send you off on a perfectly soothing float. Read more about this lazy river in Massachusetts here.
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Upper Goose Pond, Massachusetts 01238, USA
This is a great spot for a dip or a paddle. Bring your canoe for a serene cruise around the sparkling waters of Upper Goose Pond, or simply ease into the pond for a relaxing swim. This spot is definitely on the secluded side, so you'll likely be the only one around. There's also a small dock that makes boating much easier.
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Norris Reservation, 748 Main St, Norwell, MA 02061, USA
If you don't mind a touch of grass and some reeds, this place is an incredibly private and peaceful place to take a dip. Located along the North River, Norris Reservation also offers over two miles of hiking trails and some very scenic views.
Lake Dennison, Off, US-202, Winchendon, MA 01475, USA
This little pond in Massachusetts is usually a serene and beautiful place to take a dip. Don't be scared off by the picture above – it's from a boating event where the crowds turned up in droves. The waters are warm and clean, and there's a well-maintained campground as well.
Enjoy a tour of Lake Dennison Recreation Area in Winchendon, MA in this video from Dee and Lee in their RV as we continue our search for the best Massachusetts swimming holes:
Enjoy a tour of Lake Dennison Recreation Area in Winchendon, MA in this video from Dee and Lee in their RV as we continue our search for the best Massachusetts swimming holes:
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North Pond, Florida, MA 01256, USA
This swimming hole is convenient and beautiful. There's plenty of parking, and the changing rooms make slipping into or out of your bathing suit as simple as can be. The nearby Savoy Mountain State Forest also makes for a great place to hike after you've enjoyed the lovely waters of North Pond.
Morses Pond Beach, Turner Rd, Wellesley, MA 02482, USA
Want a classic beach day experience but don't feel like traveling all the way to the coast? This beach in Wellesley is a great option. There's a large floating dock with a ladder that makes getting into and out of the water a breeze, and the pond itself is exceptionally clean. Kids will love playing in the sand, and you'll love the gorgeous views.
Wells State Park, 159 Walker Pond Rd, Sturbridge, MA 01566, USA
Wells State Park is a hidden jewel. Featuring a beautiful lake, plenty of trails, and lots of grass to stretch out on, this park is a great alternative to a more traditional beach day. Head to Sturbridge to check this one out.
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Lake Wyola, Shutesbury, MA 01072, USA
Located in Lake Wyola State Park, this lovely swimming hole is clean and great for families. You can explore the beautiful natural landscape around the lake, or just spend a few hours splashing in the warm waters.
Rose Kennedy Greenway, Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02109, USA
While this isn't quite a swimming hole by traditional standards, the Rose Kennedy Greenway in Boston does offer urban families the chance to cool off when the summer heat strikes. Kids can splash in the fountains and sprays, while grownups can lounge on the park's lush lawns.
The splash pad at the Rose Kennedy Greenway is definitely a fun place to cool off on a hot summer day (or night). Take a look at a little slow-motion fun in this video:
The splash pad at the Rose Kennedy Greenway is definitely a fun place to cool off on a hot summer day (or night). Take a look at a little slow-motion fun in this video:
Of all the ways to cool off in the summer, swimming is definitely right at the top. Which of these swimming holes in Massachusetts have you been to? For more awesome places to take a dip, check out these little-known places to swim in Massachusetts that will make your summer epic.
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More to Explore
More places to swim in Massachusetts
What are the cleanest places to swim in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts is blessed with plenty of clean bodies of water to enjoy a swim. Here are a few of the cleanest places to swim in Massachusetts:
- Wingaersheek Beach, Gloucester, MA: This gorgeous beach may only be a bit over a half-mile long, but it is a very fun beach for exploring, climbing over rocks, and digging your toes into the cool sand. You'll find it on the Annisquam River in West Gloucester. It is also nice because it stays shallow for quite a ways so you can wade out in the cool waters with a nice sandy bottom.
- Lake Mansfield, Great Barrington, MA: If you are looking for a more traditional swimming beach this is a mighty nice find. With lifeguards on duty, plenty of fine sand, crisp clean water, and a grassy area for a picnic, this just might be the perfect summer beach in Massachusetts.
- Breezy Picnic Grounds/Waterslides, Douglas, MA: For another fantastic swimming spot in MA, head to Breezy on the cool clear waters of the Whitin Reservoir. Not only does it have a natural swimming beach, but there is a large grassy picnic area and waterslides that shoot into a swimming pool.
- Good Harbor Beach, Gloucester, MA: Another fun spot to cool off is Good Harbor Beach. At low tide, you can walk out to a small sandy island (Salt Island) that is a fun spot to make sand castles and splash in the clear water. There is also a main beach and a shallow pool to enjoy as well.
Read all about these swimming holes in Massachusetts and more in this article. Then, pack your beach gear and head out to enjoy some fun in the sun.