15 of the most spectacular places to swim in the world

These rocky cliffs between Marseille and Cassis aren’t the easiest to get to, but the swim that awaits is worth every bead of sweat lost on the hike. Les Calanques is known as the natural wonder of Provence for good reason, and the two ocean inlets (Calanque de Port Pin and Calanque d’En Vau) within are just about as idyllic as it gets. Go in the morning to make the most of it because these secluded spots get busy in summer. 

Beaches aren’t supposed to be red, but the beauty of this one in Santorini might have swimmers wishing that more of them were. The red in question comes from iron oxidisation, giving this stunning volcanic landscape an otherworldly hue that is best enjoyed from the temperate turquoise waters that stretch out in front.

It might not have the most inviting name, but you’re more likely to find angels than demons at this stunning spot on Victoria Falls. Only accessible via a tour from Livingstone Island, Devil’s Pool is a gorgeous natural pool that sits on the very edge of the abyss. The whole endeavour is completely safe, provided you don’t go out of your way to court disaster. The pool is open from August to January, depending on the levels of the Zambezi river. 

A trip to the local swimming pool, this ain’t. Heaven Lake is a huge crater lake on the border between China and North Korea, some 2,189m into the sky. That means the lake is iced over during the winter and isn’t exactly the warmest swim in summer, but the views are well worth the chill. It isn’t every day you get to swim near the North Korean border, too.

The manatee capital of the world! They’re awesome beasts, and getting to swim with them is a genuine privilege. Crystal River in Florida is the only place on the planet where you get that privilege, so get yourself booked on a swimming tour and spend some time up close with the humble sea cow. You’ll have to hit the water early for this one – you’re on the manatee’s clock. 

Less than an hour from Cape Town, Dalebrook Tidal Pool is a swimming nirvana. One of the most beautiful pools on the planet, this stunner is found between St James and Kalk Bay and has gained a reputation for being one of the best sunrise spots in a region full of them. Set that alarm and hit up Dalebrook Tidal Pool first thing for something special. You can even do a pretty convincing mermaid (or merman) impression on the large boulders in the pool if you’re into that sort of thing.

West of Tokyo is the Akigawa Valley, pierced by the river of the same name where many locals head to cool off during the stiflingly hot summer months. The chaotic bustle of the capital feels a world away from this spot (an hour or so by train, in reality), and the views from the Ishibune-Bashi Bridge are a delight. The whole thing gives off quaint wooden village vibes, accentuated by plenty of BBQs and hiking options. In a word? Idyllic.

One of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland, Seljavallalaug is much easier to enjoy than pronounce. It was built in 1923, and despite its tiny size it was actually the largest pool in the country for a while. The pool is accessed via a moderately simple half-hour hike and is gorgeously quaint, backed by lush undulations and a seemingly ubiquitous mist. Stunning.

What a gorgeous name. Swimming in the Cloud Forest is just part of the adventure in the Bajos del Toro region, accentuated by gorgeous hikes and a typically Costa Rican coffee experience, along with zip lines for the adrenaline hungry. The biodiversity in Monteverde is incredible, also, and swimming by a beautiful waterfall will never, ever get old.

According to legend, the Bimmah Sinkhole in Oman was created by a meteorite (the Arabic name translates loosely as ‘deep well of the falling star’), and we aren’t about to envoke science to prove that right. Bimmah is a gorgeously clear cerulean lake, and swimming is allowed in the sinkhole provided you dress modestly and adhere to the rules. The sinkhole is 130km (or so) from Muscat, just off the main highway to Sur. 

An ancient Roman aqueduct bridge, the Pont du Gard traverses the Gardon river and is the dictionary definition of grace. It also provides a rather stunning backdrop to the perfect summer swim in shallow water, one of the great French experiences. Nîmes is your best bet for a nearby base, and the bridge is a one-hour bus ride away. Take the 121 and get ready for the experience of a lifetime. 

The infrastructure around Kravice waterfall (not far from Ljubuški in Herzegovina) has developed immensely in recent years, a testament to the ever-growing popularity of the place. It isn’t difficult to see why so many people flock here during the scorching Herzegovinian summers. The clear water is perfect for swimming and the waterfalls provide a beautiful backdrop. Head to Ljubuški and follow the signs, although you’ll hear this place before you see it. 

A cave cenote not too far from Valladolid, X’keken is one of the most unique swimming experiences on this magical planet of ours. Swimming under the stalactites is an adventure all in itself, and the beautifully clear water offers tranquillity that you’ll struggle to find in any pool above ground. Cenote Samula is nearby, and you can get a single ticket that covers entry to both. Watch your step as you enter, although such things should go without saying. 

Vancouver is a special city in many ways. Canada’s western metropolis was built with quality of life at the forefront, and part of the plan was to ensure that you get a view of the nearby mountains no matter where you are. Why not enjoy that view from the serenity of Kitsilano Pool, a saltwater swimming spot on the bay? It also happens to be the longest outdoor swimming pool in North America (137 metres, for the record), but we’re too preoccupied with the views to count. 

Incredibly, we got this far into a swimming piece without mentioning Australia, but sometimes you need to save the best for last. Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island, although swimming in the sea here isn’t advised. You know, because of all the sharks. Instead, make a beeline for the many lakes and enjoy a dip without having to worry about bopping a shark on its Ampullae of Lorenzini (look it up). This is swimming at its most magnificent.