When the weather starts getting warmer, I have my eyes on any nearby body of water that can offer refreshment. Most people think about spending time on a sandy beach, but island lakes and ponds are also great options for some warm-weather fun. This year, skip the beach and consider checking out some beautiful freshwater spots across the state. Some of the best lakes in Massachusetts can be found in every corner and many are easier to access than you might think. We definitely recommend heading to one of these amazing lakes in Massachusetts as soon as you can!

1. Laurel Lake, Erving

Located in Erving State Forest, this beautiful lake in Massachusetts was suggested to us by one of our readers. Enjoy splashing around in the clean lake waters, camping along its shores, and picnicking on the sand. The park also offers over eight miles of scenic hiking trails. The daily vehicle parking fee is $8.00 for Massachusetts plates, but the visit is well worth it. It also makes the list of one of the state's clearest, most pristine places to swim.

2. Long Pond, Harwich

This gorgeous pond is located right along the Cape Cod Rail Trail. It's the perfect bike ride destination and offers white sandy beaches that rival the most beautiful of Cape Cod seaside spots. We love this Massachusetts lake and think it’s a great spot to enjoy a good stroll. You'll also find it on our list of great waterfront trails In Massachusetts.

3. Lake Quinsigamond, Worcester

Also known as Long Pond, this pond is a lovely spot for summer watersports, fishing, sailing, and swimming. The lake regularly hosts regattas, with the first being held in 1857. Eight small islands are dotted across its surface, though most of these are privately owned and not open to exploration. Pack a picnic and be sure to poke around the surrounding Quinsigamond State Park when you're done enjoying the lake. This lake in Massachusetts is just one of the reasons why Worcester is so beautiful!

4. Long Pond, Middlesex Fells

Okay, this is the last Long Pond on this list, I swear. Located in Middlesex Falls, this spot boasts remarkably clear water and a real sense of privacy. Surrounded by tall trees and smooth stones, this pond is perfect for canoeing and kayaking. One of the cleanest lakes in Massachusetts, it’s also one of the most beautiful.

5. Spy Pond, Arlington

Spy Pond might actually be most popular during the winter months, due to its tendency to freeze into an excellent ice skating spot. This 103-acre kettle pond is equally impressive during the summer months, where it hosts plenty of interesting birds and fish. We also think it’s one of the best hidden gems in Massachusetts!

6. Cochituate Lake, Cochituate

Located in Cochituate Lake State Park, this beautiful swimming hole is a great place for taking a dip on a hot day. If you'd prefer to stay a bit drier, the lake is also perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Spread a beach towel on the clean, sandy shore and enjoy the beauty of the state park. This is one of the best lakes in Massachusetts for swimming; in fact, we think it rivals the coastline!

7. Great Herring Pond, Cedarville & Plymouth

Most of this pond lies in Plymouth, with part of it extending into the Cedarville region of Pondville. Great Herring Pond has actually been the site of a number of giant turtle sightings, mostly under Carters Bridge. The waters here are relatively warm, even early in the summer. This is also one of the best locations to catch stripers on the entire East Coast. Looking for more ridiculously gorgeous lakes in Massachusetts? We’ve got plenty!

8. Lake Ashmere, Peru & Hinsdale

This lake may be familiar to those who attended summer camp in the Berkshires; Camp Ashmere, Camp Danbee, and Camp Taconic are located along its shores. It's an excellent place for swimming and kayaking, and it has beautiful views. It one of the cleanest lakes in Massachusetts.

9. Crystal Lake, Newton

This lake offers two small parks, in addition to a well-maintained town beach. There's also a public bathhouse that makes changing in and out of bathing suits very convenient. Crystal Lake is a great option for those looking for a grassy place to relax, as well as a nice swimming spot. Crystal Lake is just one of the many crystal-clear lakes in Massachusetts that you can enjoy!

10. Big Pond (Otis Reservoir), Otis

Also known as Otis Reservoir, Big Pond is a popular summertime hangout for locals and visitors alike. Beavers are very active in the area, and kayakers are likely to stumble across some of their handiwork. Swimming, fishing, and camping are all great options at Big Pond. In fact, the general consensus is that it’s one of the best swimming holes in Massachusetts!

11. Lake Monomonac, Winchendon

Lake Monomonac is actually an artificial lake, but that doesn't mean it's any less beautiful. Partially located in New Hampshire, this spot is a great option for fishing. Anglers can look forward to reeling in black crappie, chain pickerel, white perch, pumpkinseed, bluegill, horned pout, and green sunfish. Massachusetts lakes all have something special about them!

12. Lake Cochichewick, North Andover

This lake actually collects water from Weir Hill and other higher grounds in the area. Swimming isn't allowed in this lake as it is an important drinking water source for North Andover. However, boating is permitted Rowing shells, johnboats, dinghies, rowboats, canoes, and kayaks are all allowed, as long as the occupants don't actually come into contact with the water. Explore this Massachusetts lake on one of the gorgeous hiking trails in the area.

The best lakes in Massachusetts are waiting! Have you been to any on this list? If so, we'd love to hear which is your favorite and if you have any tips or tricks for making a visit extra special. Let us know in the comments below!

After visiting the most beautiful lakes in Massachusetts, you'll be ready to see more. Check out one of these Massachusetts swimming holes!