Lake Jocassee in South Carolina Has Clear Waters That Rival the Caribbean

A trip to the Caribbean is always at the top of my travel wish list. Those turquoise waters are simply magnetic, and the perfect laid-back antidote to our everyday routines. Of course, getting there can be expensive and time-consuming. But what if you didn't have to travel so far to reach a little slice of paradise? Enter: Lake Jocassee. One of the state's most valued natural treasures, this stunning lake has crystal-clear waters that aren't just beautiful for looking at; they're magical to swim in. Come with us as we explore the spectacularly clear waters of Lake Jocassee, South Carolina.

What Makes Lake Jocassee’s Waters So Clear and Inviting

Lake Jocassee doesn't exactly qualify as a hidden gem; hundreds of thousands of visitors travel here each year to experience the stunning lake-and-mountain scenery. And its location is everything. Tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the lake gets its water from the Whitewater River and the Toxaway River, both of which are relatively sediment-free. The result? Breathtakingly clear water, and even a blue-green tint usually associated with Caribbean waters. In fact, on a calm summer day, there's visibility several feet below the surface, giving swimmers the feeling of floating in crystal-clear water in South Carolina.

Things to Do Around Lake Jocassee in South Carolina

One of the best ways to experience Lake Jocassee is by visiting Devils Fork State Park, which provides the only public access to the lake. There are endless ways to engage with the water, especially in the summertime. Some favorite activities include:

• Kayaking and paddling through the lake's quiet inlets
• Boating to hidden beaches and waterfalls
• Swimming or sunbathing along the lake's beaches
• Scuba diving to underwater historic sites
• Hiking along the shoreline, enjoying popular trails such as the Laurel Fork Falls Trail, Oconee Bell Nature Trail, and the scenic overlook at Jumping Off Rock

Best Times to Visit Lake Jocassee for Summer Fun

You probably won't be surprised to learn that summer is the most popular time to visit Lake Jocassee. But timing helps a lot. If you can visit in late spring or early summer, you'll experience relatively fewer crowds. Also, try to visit on a weekday morning. Not only are the crowds fewer, but the water is also calmer, enhancing the lake's amazing clarity. Late afternoons can be ideal for swimming, but keep in mind that boating activity can make the water appear a bit murkier. The water is typically its most vivid blue in the early morning, especially near coves.

So, what do you think? Will you make plans to visit the clear waters of Lake Jocassee, South Carolina soon? If so, share this article with your favorite adventure buddy and let the planning begin! If you're looking for more remote, far-flung places to go swimming, take a look at this list of our favorite South Carolina swimming holes.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip to South Carolina using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.