Escape the heat: Bay Area swimming holes worth the trek
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People swim in Sonoma's Russian River. Photo: Ezra Shaw via Getty Images
The Bay Area has an abundance of beaches and public swimming pools, but oftentimes the best escape from the heat and fast-paced nature of city life comes in the form of swimming holes.
State of play: Swimming holes are usually found in freshwater bodies like rivers, creeks and streams. With temperatures climbing, we've rounded up some of the top locations for summertime fun.
- As always, do your own research before you go and clean up after yourself.
💧 The Inkwells (Marin) are deep, dark pools filled with water flowing from Kent Lake. It's popular with campers and hikers but has previously had issues with poor water quality due to high levels of bacteria, so proceed with caution.
- Accessible by car and public transit.
🏞️ Russian River "Secret Spot" (Sonoma) isn't really a secret anymore, but it's known for its more secluded location. Here, you'll see plenty of people carving out their own piece of heaven while floating in the water.
- Accessible via Redwood Drive.
- Visitors have reported getting ticketed, so make sure you find a legal parking spot.
Sunset Beach River Park (Sonoma), also located on the Russian River, is a popular destination for activities like swimming, tubing, sunbathing and paddling.
- Accessible via an unpaved trail from the main parking lot.
- Open 7am to 30 minutes before sunset.
🏕️ Memorial Park (San Mateo) is a campground that includes a quiet swimming area along Pescadero Creek. Those that take a dip may encounter endangered coho salmon in the water, which is surrounded by redwoods.
- Accessible via the Tan Oak Nature Trail.
- Open 8am to 8pm.
🏖️ China Hole (near Morgan Hill), with its sandy beach and big flat boulders, is a hidden gem in Henry W. Coe State Park. It's a treat for hikers who are able to follow the moderately strenuous trail.
- Accessible via the China Hole Loop.
- Open around the clock.
🌲 Garden of Eden (Santa Cruz Mountains) is located along San Lorenzo River in Henry Cowell State Park. Nestled in between redwoods, it's the perfect reprieve on a hot summer day — just beware of poison oak.
- Accessible via Ox Trail.
- Open sunrise to sunset.