If You Didn’t Know About These 6 Swimming Holes In Southern California, You’ve Been Missing Out

Southern California offers a seemingly endless list of opportunities for outdoor recreation; most notably, that of the water variety. From SoCal's stunning beaches to its pristine lakes, the state has an abundance of beautiful bodies of water. But when temperatures climb in this part of the state, there really is nothing more refreshing and rejuvenating than a swim in one of SoCal's splendid swimming holes. We searched far and wide to compile the following list of what we believe to be the best swimming holes in Southern California. Take a look, and plan your next adventure in The Golden State!

1. Three Sisters Falls - Pine Valley

To reach one of the best swimming holes in California, you'll need to navigate your way along a very intense hike. If you're up for the challenge and you're seeking an adventure, then this destination in San Diego County will be one to remember. It gets very hot out here, especially in the summer, so make sure to plan ahead and pack plenty of water for the trail to Three Sisters Waterfall.

2. Eaton Canyon Falls - Pasadena

Editor's Note: Unfortunately, since this time of publication, this hiking trail has closed.

A 3.5-mile roundtrip hike will take you to the breathtaking Eaton Canyon Falls, located in the Eaton Canyon Natural Area in Pasadena. After this brisk hike, there's no question you'll want to jump in the water to cool off on a hot summer day.

Check out this video by @lopezexplora:

3. Cedar Creek Falls - Ramona

Located in the Cleveland National Forest, you'll find an 80-foot waterfall that splashes into a perfect pool of water that makes for one of the most delightful swimming holes in Southern California. To reach the waterfall and swimming hole, you'll need to put on your hiking shoes first as there is a three-mile trail that you'll need to hike to reach the falls. It's totally worth it, however. This waterfall swimming hole is expansive, deep, and cold -- and if you visit during the week, you might even have it all to yourself!

4. Deep Creek - Green Valley

Upstream from Aztec Falls, you'll find a peaceful little swimming hole called Deep Creek. If you need to rest and unwind, the Deep Creek Hot Springs in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains is the perfect spot to relax. At the end of a moderately difficult hike, you will be rewarded with something truly spectacular: an emerald-green oasis right here in SoCal. This spring-fed pool is soothing and rejuvenating, and you can find both hot and cold areas in these gorgeous natural springs, too!

5. Malibu Creek Rock Pool - Calabasas

Malibu Creek Rock Pool is a little slice of SoCal paradise; it's just 30 minutes from LA, but feels an entire world away. The Rock Pool within the park is a SoCal tradition. When the summer sun starts to heat up, there's no better way to cool off than by taking a refreshing swim at Malibu Creek State Park. The water is serene and still, and if you visit in the early morning, it's downright hypnotic.

Check out this video by @Hikingguy:

6. Punch Bowl - Santa Paula Canyon in Santa Paula

If you're up for a bit of a trek, you'll be rewarded with a fantastic swimming hole that's pretty much perfect (it's also conveniently located at the midpoint of this seven-mile loop trail, making an excellent incentive for your journey! A variety of enchanting scenery awaits you as you make your way along the trail. Even without the payoff of a swimming hole, the scenery along the trail is well worth the journey (but trust us -- the swimming hole here is absolutely spectacular, too!). This is one of the best swimming holes in Southern California.

Check out this video by @hikeronatrail:

Do you have a favorite from our list of best swimming holes in Southern California? Did we miss any of your top picks? Let us know in the comments below! And please note that water levels can fluctuate throughout the season, so although the water levels are suitable on one day, that may change from week to week.

And for more Southern California summer adventures, check out these 15 things that you'll want to add to your SoCal bucket list!