These 8 Swimming Holes Have The Clearest, Most Pristine Water In North Carolina
Summer is the perfect time to a dip in one of North Carolina’s many swimming holes. Between lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and the ocean…there’s a lot to choose from. But sometimes not seeing the bottom can be a bit nerve-wracking. Luckily, North Carolina is home to some amazing, crystal clear swimming holes that will make the end of your summer beyond epic.
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Located at the base of North Carolina's 'Grand Canyon,'
Linville Gorge, this water is pristine, crystal clear, and also on-par with what you'd find in bottled water at the grocery store. The fresh, clean mountain water is only the cherry on top. You get to marvel in incredible, 360 degree views of some of the best scenery in western NC.
Located off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Skinny Dip Falls is well worth the .5 mile hike down. With places to jump or places to splash, this freshwater swimming hole is a 'cool' mountain experience. A favorite spot is the swimming hole right next to the waterfall and below the jump off rock. You can see everything below you, and the water is quite deep making it safe for a fun jump.
Between crystal clear water, white sand, and beachy cypress trees - it's no surprise White Lake used to be a luxury resort during the 1920's. While the vibe is a bit more relaxed now, it still retains that Caribbean charm for being miles and miles away. White Lake was formed by a crater and goes to 15 ft. deep, but the best part, you can ALWAYS see the bottom.
They don't call it the 'Crystal Coast' for no reason. Emerald Isle is a slice of beach paradise with some of the most remarkably clear water on the NC coastline.
While you won't do too much dipping and diving in this shallow pool, it's the perfect place to take the kiddos for splashing around, or even a quick cool off after a lengthy hike. Located just outside the Piedmont, Hanging Rock is perfect for a quick day trip!
Sure, Shackleford Banks has no running water or electricity and can only be accessed by boat or ferry - but it is the TRUE gem of the Crystal Coast. You'll never witness clearer water in North Carolina than you will here. Read all about it here.
With crystal clear water, waves perfect for surfing, and a town brimming with a beach vibe (and Wilmington just a short drive away) Wrightsville beach is one of the more 'happening' choices on this list, but you can't beat the gorgeous water!
In the Nantahala National Forest, Silver Run Falls is accessed by a quick hike. This 25-ft. waterfall is beautifully impressive, offers a small beach for wading, and pool by the fall with nothing but the finest, crystal clear mountain water.
These eight places offer so many unforgettable experiences, from a cool dip with mountain views, to a bit of a hike, or even simply moving from your beach chair to the ocean – North Carolina has some beautifully diverse swimming holes, where you can STILL see the bottom! Now I’d like summer to start all over again so I can visit each and every one time and time again!
What are you favorite crystal clear swimming holes in North Carolina?
Emory was born and raised in North Carolina. She enjoys writing, photography, filmmaking, travel, wine and cheese. You can find more of her work on emoryrakestraw.com
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