Planning a getaway for the holiday season? Well, if you love spending time in the water, we've gathered our top ten swim spots! Some places will satisfy your inner daredevil, while others will allow for the ultimate rest and relaxation in a wide open space of bright blue water. Take your pick from our list and take a dip!
1. The Devil's Swimming Pool- Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Located at the peak of Victoria Falls, the Devil's Swimming Pool is a formation of a perpetual stream. It is about 400 feet above the actual riverside but it is, during dry seasons, completely safe to perch at the edge of the falls. The streams have a natural rock barrier that prevents the current from carrying over anything over the edge of the falls. It offers thrills and an exciting view but more importantly, no fatal accidents have been reported, so safety shouldn't be a big issue.
2. Mosquito Bay- Vieques, Puerto Rico
This bioluminescent body of water is an experience to remember. Mosquito Bay is particularly beautiful during the nighttime when the bay reveals its phosphorescent inhabitants, which are just little glowing plankton that emit light in response to movement. Don't worry about the plankton because they are completely harmless! The salinity of the bay is also high enough so that you can just float around.
3. Sistema Sac Actun- Quintana Roo, Mexico
The Sistema Sac Actun is prominent for its cave diving sites. The Grande Cenote entrance leads to the underwater cave system where tourists can swim through and begin exploring. The temperature is relatively consistent through out.
4. Cenote Yokdzonot- Yucatan, Mexico
If you're looking for a daring dive, then the sinkholes of Yucatan are perfect for you. You can gain access to these beautiful waters by paying a small entrance fees to the locals. If you're not up to the daring dive, then you can take a dip in the shallow areas of the water.
5. Lubok Simpon- Pahang, Malaysia
Located amongst the most ancient rainforests in the world, this swimming spot offers a vibrant challenge with the current. Be sure to avoid the more precarious waters flowing at the other side of the bank!
6. Blue Lagoon- Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland is a cold region, but the Blue Lagoon is pleasantly warm. The geothermal heat conducted from beneath keeps the lagoon hot, averaging a temperature of around 38°C throughout the year. After a cold adventure, the Blue Lagoon serves as a great place to take a dip and rest your bones.
7. Big Sur River- California, USA
Big Sur can be found on the Central Coast of California. While the river has several swimming spots, the best spot is in the gorge, which sits at the bottom of the waterfall. Shallow spots en route the gorge are best suited for children and those looking for a fun, but simple swimming spot.
8. Hearts Desire Beach- California, USA
Northern California's best swimming spot is Hearts Desire Beach, where swimmers enjoy its warm and shallow waters that run for long distances and provide safety against large waves.
9. River Granta- Cambridgeshire, UK
Looking for a swim in British waters? The long and winding Granta River offers a quick way to get in and out with the use of a series of ropes that hang freely into the water. It's a fun way to go for a dip!
10. Pont Du Gard- Vers-Pont-du-Gard, France
Featuring crisp and clear waters, a Roman-esque aqueduct, and a wide river, this area makes for a great place to go for a swim. The accompanying beach allows for memorable picnics as well. The only rule is to avoid swimming under the nearby arches.
