Alright, let’s talk about my recent adventure – finding some cool swimming holes around the Bay Area. You know, those hidden gems where you can take a dip and escape the summer heat. It was a real adventure, let me tell you!
First, I decided to check out places in the North Bay. I heard about this spot called Bass Lake near Bolinas. They say it’s a bit of a secret, tucked away and peaceful. So, I packed my swimming gear, some snacks, and drove up there. The drive itself was pretty scenic. Found the place, and it was just as described – secluded and chill.

After enjoying Bass Lake, I thought, “Why not explore more?”. I remembered hearing about McNears Beach Park near San Rafael. It’s right by the water, and I figured it would be a good spot to relax. So, I headed there next. It was nice, a bit more crowded, but still a good place to swim and enjoy the views.
Then, I got this idea to swing by the East Bay. There’s this place called Crown Beach in Alameda. A friend told me it’s a big beach, good for sunbathing and just chilling. Drove over, and yep, it was pretty big and had a lot of people, but I still found a nice spot to lay down my towel and soak up some sun. I also checked out Encinal Beach while I was in Alameda, another nice spot on the water.
Of course, I couldn’t skip the South Bay and Peninsula. I went to Coyote Point in San Mateo. It’s got a beach promenade, so it’s perfect for a walk by the water. Swam a bit there too. Later, I visited Oyster Point Park, another cool spot with a harbor view.
In San Francisco
- Aquatic Park Cove, right off the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park, it’s like a little swimming oasis.
- China Beach, another gem in the city.
In East Bay
- Crown Beach, it’s huge and perfect for a beach day.
- Encinal Beach, smaller, but just as nice.
In North Bay
- Bass Lake, a hidden, peaceful spot.
- McNears Beach Park, good for swimming and views.
In South Bay + Peninsula
- Coyote Point, great for a beach walk and a swim.
- Oyster Point Park, nice views of the harbor.
So, that was my adventure around the Bay Area’s swimming holes. Each place had its own vibe, some more secluded, others more lively. But all in all, it was a great way to spend a few days, exploring and enjoying the water. If you’re looking for a little escape and a good swim, these spots are definitely worth checking out!