The Best Swimming Holes, Lakes, and Waterways Near the Santa Cruz Mountains
Summer in the mountains hits different when you know where the water is. There is nothing like finding a spot that feels like a secret, where you can float, swim, wade, kayak, or just sit on a rock and decompress. The mountains aren't known for water access the way the coast is, but if you know where to look, you can find some genuinely beautiful spots. Here are my favorite swimming holes, lakes, and waterways within reach of where we live.
Before You Go
Check water conditions and any closures before you head out. Conditions change seasonally and after storms. Some spots require a day pass or parking fee, so bring cash or check ahead. Arrive early on weekends, popular spots fill up fast. Leave no trace and pack out everything you pack in. Check local regulations on swimming, dogs, and alcohol before you go. And be aware of water temperature. Mountain streams are COLD year round.
The Spots
Highlands Park (Ben Lomond)
River access for swimming during summer months. Beautiful setting, less developed than other parks, great for wading and swimming. Located right in Ben Lomond, with a picnic area and small waterfall nearby. This one's an easy first stop if you've got little kids who aren't quite ready for deeper water.
Garden of Eden (Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Felton)
Type: River swimming hole.
Drive time: about 15 minutes from Felton, a little longer from further up the mountain.
What to expect: a short but steep hike down to a series of clear, blue green pools on the San Lorenzo River, tucked beneath redwood banks.
Best for: confident swimmers and anyone willing to do a 10 to 15 minute walk for a payoff that's worth it.
What to bring: water shoes for the rocky trail, cash for parking if the lot requires it, and a bag for your trash since there are no services down there. Park at the Ox Trail turnout off Highway 9, just south of Henry Cowell's main entrance, or the day use area when the seasonal bridge is in.
Nearby neighborhoods: Felton, with easy access from Scotts Valley too.
San Lorenzo River at Junction Park (Boulder Creek)
Type: River swimming hole.
Drive time: roughly 20 to 25 minutes from Felton, closer if you're already living further up Highway 9.
What to expect: a classic small town swimming spot right off the highway, with a sandy stretch and a cliff area nearby that draws people looking to jump (use your judgment on that one, especially with kids).
Best for: families who want something close to downtown Boulder Creek, with shops and food nearby for after.
What to bring: beach towels, water shoes, and a chair if you're planning to stay a while. Park is right off Highway 9 in downtown Boulder Creek.
Nearby neighborhoods: Boulder Creek, Brookdale.
Loch Lomond Recreation Area (Felton)
Type: Lake, boating and kayaking only.
Drive time: about 10 to 15 minutes from Felton.
What to expect: this one's not for swimming since it's the City of Santa Cruz's drinking water reservoir, but it might be the most beautiful spot on this list. You can rent a rowboat or pedal boat, or bring your own kayak to store on site, and paddle out into quiet coves surrounded by redwoods.
Best for: a calmer water day, especially if you've got a toddler who's not swimming yet but loves being on the water.
What to bring: layers (it's shaded and cool), sunscreen anyway, and snacks for the picnic areas. Located at 100 Loch Lomond Way, Felton. Closed Wednesdays, small entry fee.
Nearby neighborhoods: Felton, Lompico.
Fall Creek and the San Lorenzo River near Ben Lomond
Type: Creek and river access.
Drive time: 5 to 10 minutes for most Ben Lomond residents.
What to expect: smaller, quieter pockets of water along Fall Creek and the river as it runs through town, less crowded than the bigger named spots.
Best for: a quick after work dip or a low key afternoon that doesn't require a plan.
What to bring: water shoes, since creek beds here are rocky and uneven. Access points vary and change with the seasons, so ask a local or check current conditions before you go.
Nearby neighborhoods: Ben Lomond, Brookdale.
What to Pack for a Water Day
Sunscreen, and reapply every two hours because mountain sun is intense even in the shade. Water shoes, since creek beds and rocky shores are unforgiving on bare feet. A dry bag for your phone and keys. Extra towels and a change of clothes. Snacks and plenty of water, you'll be out longer than you plan. And a small cooler if you're making a day of it.
Living Close to the Water
Access to water changes the way you use your days. The people I know who live closest to streams and waterways in the mountains use them constantly, not just on vacation days. Summer afternoons, weekends, impromptu stops on the way home. It becomes part of your rhythm.
If outdoor and water access is part of the lifestyle you're building, it's worth thinking about proximity when you're choosing where to buy. Some neighborhoods put you 5 minutes from a creek. Others put you 30+ minutes away. That difference adds up.
Want to talk about which areas give you the best access to the outdoor lifestyle you're looking for? That's exactly the kind of conversation I love having.