7 dreamy Ontario swimming holes with crystal-clear waters that feel like a secret oasis
If floating in secluded crystal waters sounds like your idea of a dreamy summer adventure, you'll want to plan a trip to some of these majestic swimming holes in Ontario.
The province is home to several enchanting natural swimming holes where you can wade through turquoise waters and soak up some sun this summer.
From hidden gems tucked beneath cascading waterfalls to secret blue lakes, these destinations are magical warm-weather adventures.
Here are seven hidden swimming holes in Ontario to add to your summer bucket list.
Bridal Veil Falls
Price: Free
Address: Township of Billings, Manitoulin Island, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can live out your most magical mermaid dreams in this secluded swimming hole. Bridal Veil Falls is a stunning natural wonder located on Manitoulin Island, featuring a cascading waterfall.
You can hike your way to this hidden gem and even take a dip in the crystal pool of water at its base.
While you're on the island, you can also check out the beautiful Providence Bay Beach, which boasts a serene sandy shore and boardwalk.
To reach Manitoulin Island, you can drive across the Little Current Swing Bridge from Sudbury or take the Chi-Cheemaun Ferry from Tobermory.
Canatara Cove
Price: Free
Address: Lake Chipican Dr., Sarnia, ON
Why You Need To Go: According to Destination Ontario, the Cove at Canatara Beach on Lake Huron is one of the province's "bucket list swimming holes." It's hidden away behind a small peninsula at the western end of the beach and boasts a stunning view of Lake Huron's shining waters.
It provides a quieter swimming area than Canatara Beach and is protected from the currents.
Canatara Beach is home to a kilometre of golden sand shores and is one of only 22 in Canada to have earned official Blue Flag status.
Elora Quarry
Price: $11.75 per adult
When: Opening date to be announced
Address: 319 Wellington County Rd. 18, Elora, ON
Why You Need To Go: This enchanting swimming hole is just over an hour from Toronto. Here you'll find turquoise waters encased by towering, 40-foot limestone cliffs.
It's a magical place for a summer adventure and features a small, sandy beach where you can soak up some sun.
The Elora Quarry is a popular warm-weather destination, so be sure to book your visit in advance.
Topaz Lake
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 960 Hwy. 637, Killarney, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can float in this "sapphire blue" swimming hole surrounded by white cliffs for a magical summer adventure. Tucked away in Killarney Provincial Park, this hidden gem is located at the end of an 11-kilometre hike along the La Cloche Silhouette Trail.
It's one of the bluest lakes in the park and is a majestic natural wonder to experience. However, the complete journey there and back can take 7 to 8 hours, so it's a good idea to book a campsite if you plan on enjoying this spot.
St. Marys Quarry
Price: $7.50 per adult
When: Opening on June 27, 2025
Address: 425 Water St. S., St. Marys, ON
Why You Need To Go: Dubbed "Canada's largest outdoor freshwater swimming pool," this former limestone quarry is worth a summer road trip. It offers activities such as cliff jumping, a water trampoline, picnic areas and more.
You can even enjoy the Super Splash Water Park for an extra fee. The attraction boasts a series of obstacles like slides and towers to add some extra fun to your swimming experience.
Bathtub Island
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
When: Opening May 2, 2025
Address: Katherine Cove, ON
Why You Need To Go: At this spot, you can float in a natural bathtub.
Bathtub Island is a surreal, basin-shaped rock filled with warm, crystal water. You can float around in the serene pool and listen to the sound of the waves lapping against the shore.
This natural wonder is situated in the majestic Lake Superior Provincial Park. To get there, you can park at the Katherine Cove day-use parking area and hike along the Lake Superior Coastal Trail for half a kilometre.
Katherine Cove offers warm, shallow waters to enjoy and a beautiful sandy beach, making it another great spot for a swimming adventure.
Simpson Falls
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
When: Opening May 9, 2025
Address: 6905 ON-17 E, Mattawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: According to Ontario Parks, Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park has a "hidden oasis" swimming hole just east of the Campion Rapids on the Mattawa. You'll need to canoe or boat your way in, and while the water is "icy, icy cold," the surrounding river feels almost hot by contrast.
The location has even been dubbed the "Hot Springs" and "Devil's Hot Tub" by locals.
Whether you spend your summer days floating beneath enchanting cascades or discovering hidden turquoise lakes, these crystal-water swimming holes are a dreamy way to cool off and unwind in Ontario’s natural beauty.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
