9 Best Swimming Spots in the World
Our world offers some of the most beautiful swimming destinations that cater to every swimmer’s dream. From crystal-clear waters of tropical islands to fjords in the Scandinavian mountains, you will find my top picks below.
These watering holes are a way to connect with beauty and tranquility but also perhaps a challenge for the thrill-seeking swimmer.
In This Article
- Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye, Scotland
- Skraestrand, Sweden
- Las Grietas, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
- Silfra, Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
- Amalfi Coast Capri, Italy
- Giola Natural Pool, Thassos Island, Greece
- Havasu Falls, Grand Canyon
- Kuang Si Falls, Luang Prabang, Laos
- Calanques National Park, France
Isle of Skye - Scotland
If you’re brave enough to dip into cold crystal clear waters, the Fairy Pools in Glen Brittle, on the Isle of Skye, Scotland, is an ideal place for the thrill-seeking swimmer.
I have visited Scotland and my mother-in-law emigrated from Glasgow in her 20s. Naturally, I had to include this beautiful place!
Situated on the River Brittle near Glen Brittle, there are waterfalls that are separated by a series of rock pools with stunningly clear blue water. As you walk between the pools, you see all the waterfalls running between them. Even though they are not very high, the backdrop of the imposing Black Cuillins mountains makes this spot incredibly scenic.
A path takes visitors to the waterfalls, pools, and natural rock formations. Some are more secluded than others, but they’re all beautifully picturesque.
The location is perfect for the crazy swimmer, as the water temperature rarely reaches 50 F but it sure is refreshing, ultra-clean, and clear. A bucket list item for sure.
Skrea Strand - Sweden
Next up is my place of birth and upbringing. Sweden!
Skrea Strand is located in front of high dunes at the suburb Skrea in Falkenberg southern Sweden. It is considered one of the most beautiful and popular bathing beaches in Halland.
Skrea Strand (which means Skrea beach) consists of fine, almost white sand with a gently sloping shore zone. The beach stretches approximately two kilometers and is fronted by high dunes.
Klitterbadet is an indoor bath facility located close to the beach, offering swimming and relaxation options. The facility includes saunas which comes in handy for the winter swimmers.
I remember my grandmother taking me to the beach in southern Sweden during the winter months and she had no hesitation getting in the frigid waters of the North Sea. Unfortunately, there were no saunas in sight and the only warm-up gear after our dip was a bathrobe.
Skrea Strand is also a dog-friendly area. At the southern end of the beach, there’s a designated area where dogs can enjoy a refreshing bath. What a great way to get your dog to love the water and swimming.
The beach features some great amenities such as showers, toilets, ice-cream kiosks, and snack bars, which are especially nice during the summer season.
Overall, Skrea Strand is considered one of the most beautiful and popular bathing beaches in Southern Sweden offering a wide range of activities and amenities for a perfect day at the beach.
Galapagos Islands - Ecuador
One of the most unique swimming holes sits in the Galapagos Islands. Las Grietas, which means “the crack” is a series of volcanic crevices that were formed during the cooling of molten lava.
The islands are located in the Eastern South Pacific just west off the coast of Ecuador. They are renowned for their unique and diverse wildlife, which includes many endemic species that were studied by Charles Darwin in the 1830s and inspired his theory of evolution by natural selection.
Visitors can climb down the crevices where you can see two distinct levels of water. Fresh waters at the surface and salt waters of the sea. Swimmers can enjoy a refreshing dip after hiking the beautiful terrain.
Las Grietas is also among the most heralded places to snorkel in Galapagos. The fissure is comprised of towering dark volcanic rock that runs along both sides, with crystal clear water at its base. The waters are filled with a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, rays, sea turtles, white tip sharks and more.
Silfra - Iceland
Swimmers looking for a real adventure will find Iceland’s Silfra in Thingvellir National Park, a body of water between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Another bucket list item is that swimmers and snorkelers can float through a crack between two continents. The water remains above freezing all year long, but just barely, so be prepared for a polar plunge experience.
Silfra is filled with clear spring water and a swimmer’s paradise, especially for those who enjoy snorkeling and a deep diving adventure. Although there are fish such as trout in Silfra, the marine life consists mostly of bright green plants and different types of algae that provide a colorscape unlike anything that occurs naturally above the surface.
The Silfra rift opened in 1789 due to the movements of these tectonic plates that frame Thingvellir National Park. As the plates separate at a rate of about two centimeters per year, they tear open fissures in the land between them.
The rift of Silfra mostly unknown to the world is one of Iceland’s most cherished wonders.
Amalfi Coast - Italy
The Mediterranean paradise, Italy’s Amalfi Coast has been drawing visitors for centuries with its warm summers, mild winters, and a blend of natural and cultural wonders.
The region’s charm is further enhanced by the contrast between the rugged cliffs and the sparkling sea. I’ve had the privilege of visiting this picturesque Italian coast on several occasions and I can testify it’s truly heavenly diving off the cliffs into the crystal clear azure sea.
There are endless charming villages along the Amalfi Coast but the beaches of Capri and the surrounding sea is absolutely breathtaking. Capri has a pleasant temperature starting from May into October. In the autumn months the water is warmer than in spring and remains warm, allowing you to swim until late October.
The island’s beaches are typically small coves or platforms between cliffs, with beach clubs offering loungers, umbrellas, and cafés. Public areas often have rocks from which swimmers can dive directly into the ocean. It’s truly a magical place to visit.
Giola - Greece
Giola is a beautiful natural lagoon located in Thassos Greece. The lagoon resembles a swimming pool carved into the rocks. The hike to reach this stunningly blue seaside gem overlooking the Aegean Sea is quite arduous but totally worth it.
I lived and worked in Greece for a stint in my 20s and being able to travel between the various islands and explore their beauty was an unforgettable experience. Swimming in these Mediterranean waters was something short of heaven.
The water temperature in the lagoon is warmer than the sea’s but is refreshed and replenished slowly by ocean waves. You can either take a swim or dive from the terraced cliffs. Most visitors enjoy soaking in the sun on the rocks after their swim. There is no sand, nor shade so the summers can be scorching.
Giola is not very large, measuring approximately 20 meters long and 15 meters wide. The lagoon connects to the sea through a narrow pass and is surrounded by rocks. So wear good shoes and a hat when you visit this stunner.
Havasu Falls - Grand Canyon
This next place is located in the US and I have never visited but heard so many great stories about this hidden gem. Havasu Falls is located near Grand Canyon National Park.
The place is a true oasis of cool blue water and thundering falls deep within the Havasupai Reservation. Havasu Falls is not accessible by road, which means you’ll need to be prepared to embark on a 10-mile hike to reach the falls.
The trail descends through beautiful red sandstone, and you’ll encounter steep switchbacks and a dry streambed along the way. The temperature during the summers range from 80-120 F depending on where you hike and in the winters between 15-45 F.
The falls are part of a series called Navajo, Mooney, and Beaver Falls. While they don’t technically lie within Grand Canyon National Park, they are a must-see natural wonder in the Southwest.
Kuang Si Falls - Laos
Swimming at Kuang Si Falls, Laos is often described as a magical experience. The falls are known for their milky turquoise waters, which are a result of the limestone content in the water.
The panoramic views of Laos’s countryside from a lookout point near the falls are just gorgeous. The falls are pretty easily accessible by foot and offer a serene experience, especially if you visit earlier in the day to avoid crowds.
You can’t swim at the main big waterfall, but you can swim in many of the lower pools. Make sure to read all the signs as some of the pools are sacred. Make sure to keep out of those swimming holes and to respect the local ordinances. The lower pools are perfect for swimming without restrictions but be prepared for colder waters.
There are multiple pools scattered throughout the area, with the main pool featuring rope swings and an overhanging tree limb for jumping into the water
The swimming areas are very inviting, and you can swim in the pools at the main area as well as at the very top of the falls. There are also changing facilities at the site which is a great perk after a hike and swim. Enjoy this Laos swim!
Calanques - France
Our final swim wonder is nestled between Marseille and Cassis in Southern France along the French Mediterranean coast.
The Calanques are known for their dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches. The ocean inlets offer idyllic swimming spots that will suit the most picky swimmer.
These swimming holes, like most tourist places, are best enjoyed in the mornings or evenings when crowds are low.
The stunning coastal inlets are characterized by steep cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and rugged beauty. Some popular bathing spots within the Calanques National Park include Saint-Estève, En-Vau, and Figuerolles
The Calanques are difficult to access by car and once there it lacks any type of changing facilities. The beaches are also quite small. Due to its popularity, it does become crowded during the summer months. But it’s still a fabulous place to visit for the swim enthusiast.
Bottom Line
These destinations are just a few of my favorites when it comes to finding the perfect swimming spot around the globe.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone that will make your swimming experience unforgettable.
Remember to respect local protocols when visiting these beautiful locations. Enjoy your next swim adventure!