Living in Maine means quite a few months of cold weather, followed by a few glorious summer months of fun. From hikes to walks to boating and swimming, there are endless ways to get outside and enjoy those warmer days. We love the beach, but that water can be cold on even the hottest summer days. Lakes are great but often filled with locals and tourists who have the same idea. That's why we love the best swimming holes in Maine. They're often visited only by locals who live nearby, which means less traffic and noise. And, they're certainly a ton of fun! Pack a picnic, grab your bathing suit, and enjoy a day in these cool swimming holes in Maine. The best part is that they're great throughout the year, visit when it's chilly and enjoy a completely different experience by soaking up just the views.

1. Frenchman’s Hole, Bethel

Imagine summer days in Maine and you'll likely conjure images of this spot! You'll find high rocky ledges perfect for cannonballs into the deep, clear water below. There's also a shallower pool at the top which is great for littler kids. Always be careful here as it's often slippery.

One of the best Maine swimming holes, Frenchmen’s Hole is a crystal clear option for those hot, sticky, summer days.

2. Ledge Falls Pools, Medway

You won't find just one swimming hole here, but many! The best part is landing in them by sliding on the rocks surrounding them. Located on the west side of Baxter State Park, you can see the area directly from the main road in the park. To up your relaxation, bring floats to spend your time idly remembering why you love Maine so much.

There are so many great Maine swimming holes that it can be hard to narrow it down to just one. Grab a list and rotate through so you can enjoy them all through the long summer months.

3. Coos Canyon, Oxford County

If you like your swimming holes to come with minimal effort, this is the one for you! You can access it by pulling off of the Route 17 Scenic Highway. The swimming area, within the Swift River, is fairly deep and located between two steep sections of rock. Expect things to be slippery, so always be careful near the edge.

Swimming holes in Oxford County are a special sort of fun and there’s plenty of them to choose from!

4. The Cataracts, Oxford County

While optimal water flow is in the spring, you should plan on visiting this spot any time you want to cool down. The falls leading to the multiple pools below are about 100 feet high, making it fun to splash around in the parts that hit the water.

Easily one of the best swimming holes in Maine, an easy hike will bring you to the base of these spectacular falls.

5. Houston Brook Falls Pools, Bingham

Head to Wyman Lake where Houston Brook empties along the Kennebec River to access this swimming spot. There are lots of pools all along the brook for multiple types of fun.

Are the Houston Brook Falls Pools in Maine frequently referred to as some of the best swimming holes in Maine? Absolutely, and you should see why for yourself!

6. Step Falls Pools, Newry

While not a traditional swimming hole, we love this one for its fun natural slide. The rocks here are slippery making them a great ride for people who want a little more adventure in their cool-off endeavors. Land at the bottom and head to the top to do it all again.

The natural waterslide at Step Falls Pools makes it a top choice out of all o these swimming holes in Maine.

7. Smalls Falls, Franklin County

This is a great place to visit if you have a mix of kids and grownups. There are areas deep enough for jumping from high above, but enough shallow areas to keep things calm. Access the lowest pool via the parking lot and the rest are just a short scramble up the rocks.

We love this accessible Maine swimming hole, and we think you and the whole family will, too.

8. Gulf Hagas, Piscataquis County

You'll need to be a bit ambitious to reach this cool-off spot. Gulf Hagas, known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," is located within Katahdin Iron Works State Park. Hike the 8.6-mile loop and then jump into the base of the falls for the ultimate way to beat the heat. The water is fed by the waterfalls running throughout the area, making this a spot to visit if you love Maine's views as well.

Definitely high up on our list of Maine swimming holes, it’s also great when you want a great waterfall hike in Maine.

9. Rattlesnake Pool, Oxford County

This one requires a hike, but the effort is worth it. As long as you can ignore the frigid temps, that is! The pool is fed by Rattlesnake Brook, which you can reach by taking the Stone House Trail in Evans Notch before veering off for the pool.

Luckily an easy hike to this Maine swimming hole is worth it. And you can cool off if you work up a sweat!

10. Three Pools, Swift River, Roxbury

Another swimming area that's part of the Swift River, Three Pools is located at the base of a small set of falls. To get there, parking along the road and walk towards the river. When you get close, you'll find yourself at the ledge where you can get in and enjoy!

Waterfalls and swimming holes in Maine; does summer get any better than this? We think not!

Have you visited any swimming holes in Maine? What did you think? Most importantly, if you have any tips and tricks for a great visit let us know in the comments.

One of our absolute favorite swimming holes in Maine is this one in Oxford County. It's part of a larger gorge and features a hidden waterfall and lots of secret places to explore.