When you think of taking a swim in Southern California, the first thing that comes to mind is heading to the ocean. However, instead of spending a day at the beach like everyone else, how about heading out on a scenic hike to some of the best swimming holes in Southern California? Here are 10 epic spots in Southern California where you will find the perfect place to refresh yourself in the water on a hot summer day. There’s no better place in the summer than SoCal, and you’re bound to fall in love with one of these incredible swimming holes. They’re perfectly stunning and refreshing!

1. Aztec Falls
flickr/brenrub
Editor's note: Unfortunately, this swimming hole is permanently closed. 

Located in the San Bernardino Mountains, enjoy a short hike along the Pacific Crest Trail before you reach this splendid swimming hole in Southern California.
2. Switzer Falls
Switzer Falls, Tujunga, CA 91042, USA
flickr/Neon Tommy
Downstream from the Switzer Falls Picnic area in the San Gabriel Mountains, you will find a small swimming hole that's perfect for a dip in the water. Learn more about what Switzer Falls is all about.
3. Take a swim under the Bridge to Nowhere
Bridge to Nowhere, Mt Baldy, CA 91759, USA
DunkelPaws/Trip Advisor
Tucked inside the San Gabriel Mountains along the east fork of the San Gabriel River, you will find this popular swimming hole under the Bridge to Nowhere. It may not be large enough to do laps, but it's one of many great rivers in Southern California to swim and cool off. Learn more about the Bridge to Nowhere.
4. Cedar Creek Falls
Cedar Creek Falls, California 92065, USA
flickr/John Lemieux
This spectacular spot outside of San Diego in Ramona is a hidden gem. A pleasant 2.5-mile trail will lead you down to Cedar Creek Falls where you will be greeted by this heavenly pool of water. It's truly one of the most underrated outdoor adventures in SoCal. Get more reasons why a trip to Cedar Creek Falls is a total must.
5. Malibu Creek Rock Pool
Malibu Creek Rock Pools, Agoura Hills, CA 91301, USA
flickr/James O Brien II
One of the best swimming holes in Southern California, this spot is fit for the whole family, as it's an easy 1.5-mile hike to reach the swimming hole. Once you get there, you'll be in awe of the volcanic rock formations that surround you. When it comes to swimming holes in SoCal, the Malibu Creek Rock Pool is one of the most stunning. Read further on about the Malibu Creek Rock Pool.

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6. Cooper Canyon Falls
Burkhart Trail to Cooper Canyon Falls, Burkhart Trail, Pearblossom, CA 93553, USA
flickr/Jessica Watkins
Located in the Angeles National Forest, you can take the scenic Burkhart Trail to reach this refreshing swimming hole. It is one of the best swimming holes in Southern California. Get more details on the specifics of Cooper Canyon Falls.
7. Solstice Canyon
Solstice Canyon, 3455 Solstice Canyon Rd, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
Adam Kassel/Trip Advisor
Reward yourself with a dip in the cool water at Solstice Canyon in Malibu at this small swimming hole along one of the trail routes. Weekends can get pretty crowded, but you may have this swimming hole in Southern California to yourself during a weekday afternoon. Learn more about Solstice Canyon.
8. Tenaja Falls
Tenaja Falls, Forest Rte 7S02, Murrieta, CA 92562, USA
flickr/William McCamment
At the top of Tenaja Falls in the Cleveland National Forest, you will find this pleasant spot along the Tenaja Falls trail. Learn more about getting to Tenaja Falls.
9. Red Rock Pool
flickr/Colin
Editor's note: Unfortunately, this swimming hole is permanently closed. 

Take a short half-mile hike on the Red Rock trail in the Los Padres National Forest to reach this popular swimming spot surrounded by stunning scenery.
10. Hermit Falls
Hermit Falls, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA
flickr/Daniel Pouliot
This is a popular destination in the San Gabriel Mountains for hiking and taking a swim at the base of Hermit Falls. Get here early on the weekends to avoid crowds or plan on a weekday trip to get one of the best swimming holes in Southern California to yourself. Although cliff diving is a popular activity here, stick to hiking down to the swimming hole as that's a much safer plan. While you are in the area, consider checking out Monrovia Canyon Park too.

Wow – what a perfect way to spend the day! Where are your favorite swimming holes in Southern California?

Did you work up an appetite swimming? Check out these highly-rated restaurants in Southern California.

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swimming holes in SoCal

Meghan Kraft | June 20, 2020

What's the most beautiful swimming hole in SoCal?

The region of Southern California is rife with natural beauty, but there are a few beautiful swimming holes in SoCal that make for a perfect experience on a warm day. If you’re looking to ditch the public pool, then you might want to head to the slow-moving Deep Creek. The Rock Pool Swimming Hole is freezing but a true classic and it was once used as a filming spot for Planet of the Apes. Little Harbor and Shark Harbor can be found on the southwest side of Catalina, and you just might spot a lobster when the tide goes out.

What are the best waterfall hikes in SoCal?

There are multiple opportunities to hike to waterfalls in Southern California, but some hikes are better than others. Head to the highly popular Eaton Canyon Falls in Altadena if you’re looking for ease of access, and if you’re hiking in Santa Barbara, there’s nothing like the 150-foot Tangerine Falls. Fish Canyon Falls is in Duarte and it has all the wow factor of a natural wonder. The hike is fairly popular, but the massive, gushing waterfall is well worth the time investment.

What are the most beautiful lakes in SoCal?

If you are in the mood for a lake day, know that there are some beautiful lakes in SoCal. Silverwood Lake is known for being one of the most beautiful lakes in the Inland Empire, and it's great for boating, fishing, and water skiing. Lake Gregory is in the San Bernardino National Forest and provides a tranquil getaway for locals to hide from the influx of tourists. Head to Lake Piru for camping, or maybe head out to Lake Cuyamaca if you’re looking for great trout fishing. It’s stocked with 40,000 pounds of fish per year!

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