Florida is home to some of the most exquisite swimming holes. From turquoise lakeside pools, hidden in majestic forests, to serene rivers tucked away between mountain peaks – opt for one of these top 10 swimming spots and take a dip into nature’s backyard!
Best Swimming Holes in Florida
Blue Spring State Park
- Address: 2100 W French Ave, Orange City, FL 32763, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (12304)
- Phone: +1 386-775-3663
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMTuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMWednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMThursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMFriday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMSaturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMSunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
5 Replies to These 12 swimming holes in Florida are pure magic
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Top 12 Most Popular Swimming Holes in Florida
Rainbow Springs State Park
- Address: 19158 SW 81st Pl Rd, Dunnellon, FL 34432, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (7176)
- Phone: +1 352-465-8555
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMTuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMWednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMThursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMFriday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMSaturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMSunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Reviews:
Entrance fee is $2 per person collected at a gate house near the spring headwaters about .25 miles from the parking lot. There are some short trails, a swimming area, restroom/changing rooms, pavilions and grilling areas and a lawn area for sunbathing. The visitor center and snack bar were closed on the day of our visit, Tuesday in February.
There is a watercraft launch and rental area located just past the swimming area which we used to launch our paddle boards. You will need to carry your watercraft from the parking lot to that area.
The water is crystal clear, deep and 72 degrees year round. Paddling was great, next to no obstacles with light currents. I have had more scenic experiences, much of the river is occupied by residential areas on one side. Wildlife is abundant, turtles, fish and birds are everywhere. As in any water source in Florida there are alligators but we did not observe any during out 3 hours on the water. Best of all were the small coves along the river which provided opportunities to pull over and cool off with a swim.
There is a campground located 7 miles by road from the spring that has its own watercraft launch.
Overall the park was a great experience although I’m sure it would be difficult to have that same option had we gone on a weekend, the park closes the gate at capacity, or had we not taken the watercraft out to explore the river away from the swimming area.
By Eric Pritchard (10 months ago)Beautiful state park with a botanical garden with walking paths, canoe/kayak area, restrooms with changing rooms and a swimming area. The parking lot is only a 5-10min walk away. You can tell this is a touristy destination by their gift shop, food stand & how they set up the park. The swimming area is smaller than expected, but still an amazing experience. I saw a sea turtle while swimming!They do charge a $2 admission.
The campground is nice, clean and spacious. Check in was easy & staff was friendly. You can see the stars above in the night. The area is quiet & great for families.
By Sarah Mae (11 months ago)Very beautiful 😍 I did not expect the water to be so blue!! It was so pretty I had an amazing time. The water was crystal clear, and you could swim down and touch the springs. I highly recommend bringing a pair of goggles and, if you have some, snorkels. I went paddle boarding and saw fish, birds, and turtles. This was an exciting and superb experience. I would definitely go again but there are other springs I would like to see as well.By Ava’s Artistry (6 months ago)This is truly a Florida gem. The park is beautiful, clean, friendly, nature-filled, economic, and impressive overall. Park guards/rangers are very friendly and helpful, and there’s always one posted at the main spots of the park, so you feel safe and always have someone to answer your questions. We were a group of 6, brought our own tent (only 4 sided tents not allowed in head springs picnic area), a small grill, and even a dominoes table. Large grassy area right next to the swimming area to lay down your towels and enjoy the views. We expected long lines and a large crowd, but due to the suspected tropical storm (which didn’t end up hitting this area), this Saturday morning was nice and quiet. We arrived around 8:30 & had the advantage of an almost empty swimming area. We also kayaked about 30 mins down the river, and the views were breathtaking. Cheap prices too. We parked at the headstrong entrance so we could have a long picnic. Bathrooms are also nice and clean. Perfect spot to experience something new and have a great time with family.By Anabel Duran (7 months ago)Beautiful spring. A few man made waterfalls, only one was working during my visit. $2 per person fee to enter into the park.
Parking is plentiful. Nice, paved walkways. Restrooms, visitors center, gift shop and concession area are nice and cared for. There are pavilions and a nice grassy area for picnics on a blanket. Dog friendly. Smoking areas.
The spring itself is large. The swimming area is deep. The gift shop sells floats for $4 for this reason- you cannot stand. There are benches for sitting or for your belongings- you enter the spring from a floating dock and aluminum ladder going into the water. The swimming area is clearly roped off. Kayaking and paddle boards are available to rent by the hour or day at decent rates.By Josie Endsley (2 months ago)
Ichetucknee Springs State Park
- Address: 12087 Southwest, US-27, Fort White, FL 32038, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (5982)
- Phone: +1 386-497-4690
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 8:00 AM – 7:45 PMTuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:45 PMWednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:45 PMThursday: 8:00 AM – 7:45 PMFriday: 8:00 AM – 7:45 PMSaturday: 8:00 AM – 7:45 PMSunday: 8:00 AM – 7:45 PM
- Reviews:
We visited during the winter off season and it was absolutely amazing! There were barely any others visiting, so the river was quiet and pristine. We saw lots of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and even some manatees (they frequent the area upriver of Midpoint).
Note that they don’t allow you to bring any disposable items (snacks, bottled water) so make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Definitely recommend for all ages and levels of experience. We were in a party of 8 with both adults and pre-teen/teenage children, with little experience kayaking, and it was awesome.
By Athena Chen (a year ago)What an amazing place. Water is so blue and perfect. Everyone had the best time. We decided to walk to the drop off place instead of paying 7.50 a piece for the shuttle and it really wasn’t that bad. A 25 minute walk both ways but if you need the shuttle it is pretty nice to have I bet. But our teenagers can truck it. We will be back. It was a wonderful experience for sure.By Amanda Bridges (6 months ago)Another beautiful Flordia Spring! Parking is ample. Divers spray off area. Food area, concession- burgers, hotdogs, etc.. pretty pricey however. (They were closed when we came later in the afternoon) Nicer walkway to the spring. Bring a mask or goggles, you can see the spring opening in the far left corner. The force from the water output will push you away. Beautiful inside and outside of the crystal clear water. Very cold!By Josie Endsley (2 months ago)May 13, 2022 a Friday. It was a perfect day with little people traffic. We floated down twice. So peaceful…you heard the birds and just a little talk ftom the people ahead. Water temp was nice– not too cold like we expected. Highly recommend! Just be sure to spray down with sunscreen and bring water in an aluminum or reusable container. NOT allowed to have disposable containers NOR food on the water!!!! There is a small restaurant that serves burgers dogs, chicken sandwich, fries, sodas at a fair price. Enjoy🙂By Karen Padgett (7 months ago)Incredible park. Only got to visit the south end during this visit but it’s amazing. The second 1.5 miles of the river and surrounding area are completely geared towards tubing, and sits at #1 for tubing destinations in Florida I’ve been to. Will definitely go back with our paddle boards to experience the first mile and a half the the river and the springs.By Tony Conte (4 months ago)
De León Springs State Park
- Address: 601 Ponce Deleon Blvd, De Leon Springs, FL 32130, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (4585)
- Phone: +1 386-985-4212
- Website: Link
- Reviews:
Beautiful, clean, lots of room to enjoy your day there.
Breakfast was great, cook it yourself in front of you. We will be back!
I wish they still had some of the stuff from way back in the day would be cool to see. The big building holds all the history of the place quite interesting. The trees are worth seeing in person, pictures do it no justice. And your car is parked in the shade😁😁. Almost every spot.
Water feels cold at first but do refreshing. 72`
They have canoe and tube rentals, you can catch the boat tour too.By Deena Jones (7 months ago)New to Florida and visiting every springs possibly is on my husband’s and I to do list. This is number three for us and every single one is just as beautiful as the next. Skipped the pancakes (the wait can be a couple hours) but enjoyed the scenery and tranquility of it all. Water is cold (don’t let 72 degrees fool you) but just go for the plunge and all is well. I also appreciate a springs that has shallow water areas where I can just sit or stand and enjoy just being in the water. Would definitely come by again and perhaps maybe even try the famous pancake house. And be sure to stop by the visitor center and learn some historical facts about the springs and surrounding areas.By Alicia Polanco (4 months ago)Really fun state park! We went over MLK Jr. weekend and it was a bit crowded and chilly but we still had a great time. The restaurant was already booked up when we got there so we are looking forward to going back to experience that but from the sights and smell it should be pretty good. Since they were all booked up we just ordered some food from the take away stand and it was really good for a decent price. The hot cocoa was really yummy and warms you right up on a cold day (although rare in Florida!) Would 100% recommend just as a place to get out of the house for a day. When we go back we hope to also try the kayaking and swimming!By Lexie Orozco (11 months ago)A beautiful state park, with a nice cool, fresh water swimming pool above the spring.The Sugar Mill “cook your own” pancakes were a fantastic breakfast, the bacon and sausage sides were very tasty.
We will definitely visit again, next time we are in the area
By Allan Findlay (8 months ago)Main spring area is very nice. Nice swimming. The facilities are OK. Watch for the slime on the steps. Very slippery. After the short waterfall the river is not that pretty. We kayaked it and did not stay out for long. Once away from the park area, lots of boats and noise. And lots of gators. The pancake place is always a long wait. Fun but if you have to wait more than an hour it is not worth it.By David Anderson (3 months ago)
KP Hole Park
- Address: 9435 SW 190th Avenue Rd, Dunnellon, FL 34432, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (2244)
- Phone: +1 352-489-3055
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PMTuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PMWednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PMThursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PMFriday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PMSaturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PMSunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Reviews:
Had a great time tubing down the river. The water feels amazing and we seen a lot of birds when we came during the week. Wish we would have brought the sunscreen with because we should have reapplied!By Rachel Gonzalez (5 months ago)We put our kayaks in here to paddle with friends and enjoyed it. Nice maintained park with facilities. They rent tubes for tubers (apparently you can’t use your own). They also have a shuttle service for kayaks and tubers. We just paddled up and down the area. Lots of wildlife – animals and people 😂 We got the VIP parking pass which made it awesome!! $20 was the cost I believe. It was a holiday weekend and the parking lot was full. We pulled up and parked right behind the pavilion. So convenient. Beautiful clear water! Even being crowded, we had an awesome time!By sherri Jackson (7 months ago)Such a relaxing time tubing down the river. Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen because tubing time is 4 hours long. So beautiful and got to see some otters!By Millie (7 months ago)Is $30 per person tubing and $10hour for canoeing or kayaking. No pets allowed not even in the park area. No alcohol No drinks unless in a non-disposible container like a tumbler or reusable bottles. Last customer for tubing is at 12:45pm. There is a police half away n the will check your cooler n containers for alcohol and disposable drinks. Other that that is a nice ride.By Valerie Alfonso (5 months ago)This place was great, we put our own kayaks in here …paid the $5 fee and paddled our way up river ….I’d you’ve never been…..WOW….rainbow river is incredible and this place is a great way to check it out!! Very clean and organized facility!By Rebecca Braun (10 months ago)
Fanning Springs State Park
- Address: 18020 Northwest, US-19, Fanning Springs, FL 32693, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (1644)
Silver Glen Springs Recreation Area
- Address: 5271 FL-19, Salt Springs, FL 32134, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (1418)
Madison Blue Spring State Park
- Address: 8300 FL-6, Lee, FL 32059, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (1263)
Pitt and Sylvan Springs
- Address: 6315 FL-20, Youngstown, FL 32466, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (646)
Hospital Hole
- Address: 5490 Darlene St, Spring Hill, FL 34607, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (532)
Troy Springs State Park
- Address: 674 NE Troy Springs Rd, Branford, FL 32008, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (395)
Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
- Address: 180th St, Live Oak, FL 32060, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (296)
Ramrod Swimming Hole
- Address: Pruitt Dr, Summerland Key, FL 33042, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (215)
That’s it for our list of the best swimming holes in Florida! If you have any arguments or additional information, please leave a comment. We love to hear from our readers. And don’t forget to check out some of the other posts on our blog for more travel inspiration. Happy beachcombing!
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BEAUTIFUL! You definitely want to get there early as it gets full pretty quickly! The spring closes during certain times of the year because of the manatee activity. We were fortunate enough to see some manatees enjoying the spring. There’s a small store where you can buy food and a gift shop. There are plenty of tables and areas through out if you want to enjoy a picnic. Plenty of signs available to educate you throughout as to the manatees, fish and other fun facts. There’s also a boat tour available. The walk way that takes you from one end of the spring to the open area is wide enough that is wheelchair accessible and/or stroller friendly.
Camp sites are available as well if you are fortunate enough to snag reservations.
Its not a huge park, but definitely a great place to spend a few hours enjoying nature at its finest! Be sure your camera is fully charged because I assure you, you will be a lean mean picture taking machine!
Exceptionally beautiful spring and spring run. The boardwalk is also an easily accessible path which you have the potential to see so much wildlife from. One of the best places to see manatees as well during the winter. The park staff do a great job with maintaining this park. There’s also a hiking path inside the park accessible from the lower parking lot called pine island trail… east but long and very little shade In Some parts. I love visiting this place and have done so many many times!
Wonderful time with friends. Manatees, gators and bird oh my. Beautiful day, went on the boat ride. Best time in a long time. They knew what they were doing. The lady knew her animals and their stories as she picked them out and the gentleman knew his boat to get close to the animals as he could get. Great team. Then we went to the swimming hole and saw more manatees and they had a guide to make sure nothing harmed them. Swimming hole cold but, refreshing.
Heavenly experience! Serene, well cared for, easy access, lots of paths and walk ways to the water. They need more seating areas. People come and put their stuff on picnic tables all day so there is no available seating. Bring inner tubes. The water is deep in some places. It’s 74 degrees but it feels cold. The spring pushes you back down stream so be prepared to swim. Bring water shoes if you don’t want to touch the bottom of the river. Many trees down in the water, some you have to climb/swim over. Bring your snorkeling gear if you want to look into the spring. From the surface it looks like a dark hole and there are two fallen trees across it. There are tons of fish some huge floating down river. Very cool. We saw turtles also. When we first arrived there was a manatee swimming at the bottom of the steps that lead into the swimming area. It had a floating devise attached to it’s tail so you could see where it was. There was a woman in a canoe with a vest that read “Manatee Observer” who thanked all the swimmers for being patient while the manatee swam away. Another manatee observer was on the deck letting new arriving swimmers why they couldn’t swim yet. Everyone was very cooperative. Pretty much everyone was mesmerized by the slow moving graceful manatee. We all felt pretty blessed to see this wonder to behold. God is so good! Nature is so amazing!
My mom and I went here to check out this beautiful Spring. We hiked a little, walked the boardwalk along the spring area and did a 2 hour cruise on the St John’s River. It was so peaceful and wasn’t very crowded when we went. You can swim, tube, snorkel and dive the area. The water is so clear, but 72 degrees, its a little to cold for me. We saw a few manatee, but during winter time this place gets over 700 manatees coming in. Beautiful place and recommend. Great seeing undeveloped areas.