THE WORLD’S 15 MOST IDYLLIC NATURAL SWIMMING POOLS
The most beautiful natural pools in the world
Lagoons at Lençóis Maranhense National Park in Brazil
In the north-east of Maranhão in Brazil, this superb natural park features white sand dunes and lagoons.
Sol de Mañana Geyser Basin in Bolivia
In the province of Sud Lípez in the province of Potosí, this incredible spot mixes geysers, fumaroles and mud ponds. Further away, thermal pools, named Termas de Polques, allow you to bathe in water at 40 °C.
Natural aquarium in New Caledonia
On the island of Maré, this pool nicknamed the Natural Aquarium allows you to swim alongside multicolored fish, but also rare corals.
Little Sur River springs in California
On the side of Big Sur, where the famous Big Little Lies series is set, the Little Sur River winds its way to the Pacific Ocean, forming a basin of changing colors.
Famous for its natural swimming pools, Sydney brings together a few small ones. One of them is the Tidal Pool on the coast, which allows you to escape the fierce Australian current and the marine wildlife.
Dalebrook tidal pool in South Africa
In Cape Town, the Dalebrook Basin brings together as many regulars as it does pass travelers. Thanks to its low walls, the waves roll in to create a marine movement.
The Baths on Virgin Gorda
On Virgin Gorda, in the British Virgin Islands, these natural “baths” allow you to swim in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
Natural pools in Siargao
An essential and highly Instagrammable spot for passing through Siargao, the natural pools are a must visit. The most famous is that of Magpupungko, which is found after a steep path, with its turquoise water encased in rock.
Greenly Beach rock pools in Australia
In the south of Australia, this natural pool with lagoon-colored water is formed by a multitude of rocks. Swim in the sea, yet far from the waves of the surfers in the distance.
Ik Kil cenote in Mexico
Located in the Yucatán region of Mexico, this cenote is part of the Ik Kil Archaeological Park, not far from the site of Chichen Itza. It is about 40 meters deep and is surrounded by tropical climbing plants.
A paradise of natural pools, Australia has many of them on its coasts which are often dangerous for swimming. The Mona Vale rock pool to the north of Sydney is one of them.
Saint-Malo pool in Brittany
Proof that you don’t have to travel miles to admire a natural swimming pool. In Brittany, the one in Saint-Malo is tide-fed and has a diving board.
Porto Moniz pool in Madeira
On the island of Madeira, the natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz are becoming the ultimate summer vacation hotspot.
La Grotta della Poesia in Puglia
In Roca Vecchia, the “Poetry Cave” is a natural swimming pool inspired by the legend of a princess who liked to bathe in these waters and who inspired many poets.
Fairy Pools in Scotland
Resulting from a natural waterfall phenomenon at Glen Brittle on the Isle of Skye, these green and blue water pools are popular with daredevil swimmers who brave the icy waters.