When the weather gets hot, the tough get swimming. If you’re looking to get wet and have some fun, then check out these Bay Area swimming holes around San Francisco. Let’s start swimming!

1. Lake Temescal - 6500 Broadway, Oakland, 94618
94618, Piedmont, CA 94618, USA
Akiko N/Yelp
This is one of the closer spots to swim near the city. The swim area has a sand beach bordered by a beautiful green area. Many avid water enthusiasts will love the swimming opportunities here.
2. Bass Lake - Mesa Rd, Bolinas, CA 94924
Bass Lake, California 94924, USA
Ole Holbech/Flickr
When you leave the city, pass by the lovely Golden Gate to this beautiful lake. Be prepared for a 2.7-mile hike to this lake though. This is a popular spot with lots of hikes and natural beauty around as well.
3. Crown Beach - 8th St & Otis Dr, Alameda, 94501
Otis Drive, Otis Dr, Alameda, CA 94501, USA
Tri P/Yelp
Very close to the city, and better yet you get a sandy beach in the Bay Area. The water is warmer than what you get in the city and shallow, so you can swim with ease. Crown Beach is an ideal spot for a day trip from the city.

Get a closer look at this beautiful beach:

4. Lake Del Valle - 7000 Del Valle Rd, Livermore, 94550
Lake Del Valle, California 94550, USA
Michelle B/Yelp
Not too far from Fog City, this man-made lake has everything you could want for swimming or just cooling off. Lots of activities here including fishing, boating, and beach fun.

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5. Garden of Eden - 210 State Rt 9, Santa Cruz, 95018
California 9, CA-9, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
Joaquin Jamison/Google
Expect and enjoy natural beauty, clear water, and a lush ring of redwoods. The Garden of Eden is truly mesmerizing. This is a spot in the Santa Cruz area that attracts swimmers of all types, so expect anything goes mentality here.
6. Russian River - Monte Rio Beach - 20488 Hwy 116, Monte Rio, 95462
20488 CA-116, Monte Rio, CA 95462, USA
Victoria E/Yelp
Believe it or not, you can find free activities in wine country. Swimming is free and fun and what better way to stay cool than visit this epic river? The recommended area here is Monte Rio Beach on the Russian River.
7. American River - Discovery Park, Sacramento, 94203
Discovery Park, 1600 Garden Hwy, Sacramento, CA 95833, USA
Nicky N/Yelp
This is a more relaxing spot for lounging on the river, relaxing on the beach, picnics, and of course swimming. The American River is popular, so expect big groups, especially for tubing and weekend gatherings.
8. Shadow Cliffs Park - 2500 Stanley Blvd, Pleasanton, 94566
2500 Stanley Blvd, Pleasanton, CA 94566, USA
Winnie G/Yelp
This is the perfect place for families and gatherings, and most importantly to swim. Wander around the park and spend time at Shadow Cliffs as this is a hidden gem in the South Bay.

Check out the sights you’ll see here:

Have you been to any of these Bay Area swimming holes? Do you have any favorite secret swimming holes? Let us know and share your experiences in the comments. Share this story too! If you’re curious about the best swimming holes then check out this lazy river near San Francisco.

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More to Explore

Natural Wonders in Northern California

William Suphan | May 27, 2023

What are the most beautiful natural wonders in Northern California?

The most beautiful natural wonders in Northern California include:

  • Trinity Alps Wilderness. This is an area that looks as though no human has ever set foot there. While many do, it has a pristine beauty that can’t be overstated.
  • Point Reyes National Seashore. This is a natural sanctuary with amazing ocean views from stunning oceanside cliffs. 
  • Redwood National Park. The trees here are massive giants and are the tallest trees on the planet. Taking a drive through this area will be something to remember. 
  • Lake Tahoe. This is a nationally famous lake and people have been taking trips here for generations. 

Find out more about the most beautiful natural wonders in Northern California. 

What are the most incredible natural attractions in Northern California?

The most incredible natural attractions in Northern California include:

  • Burney Falls. Located in the McArthur-Burney Memorial State Park, these lush waterfalls with bright turquoise waters are quite a sight.
  • Castle Crags State Park. The jagged granite peaks of this rugged mountain range were formed millions of years ago by glaciers.
  • Mount Shasta. This stunning mountain is replete with majestic natural scenery and is a favorite place for hiking, swimming, boating, seeing waterfalls, and more.
  • North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve. The rolling meadows and fields here contain vibrant wildflowers like lupines and poppies.

Learn more about the most incredible natural attractions in Northern California. 

What are the most peaceful places in Northern California?

The most peaceful places in Northern California include:

  • Drakes Beach. This is a secluded beach set against limestone cliffs where you can see elephant seals frolicking about.
  • Nisene Marks State Park. There are 30 miles of trails from the sea cliffs into the redwood forests and it’s utterly gorgeous.
  • Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Located in the Klamath Basin near the Oregon border, this vast expanse of wetlands is quite serene.
  • Stillwater Cove Regional Park. This is a 210-acre preserve with forests, meadows, and a secret beach. Come here to get away from it all.

Discover more about the most peaceful places in Northern California. 

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
6500 Broadway, Oakland, 94618
7000 Del Valle Rd, Livermore, 94550
2500 Stanley Blvd, Pleasanton, 94566
20488 Hwy 116, Monte Rio, 95462
210 State Rt 9, Santa Cruz, 95018