Hot Austin days call for a trip to one of these gorgeous watering holes! There are plenty of hidden waterways around the city, but a few local favorites are nestled into the serene landscape of the Texas Hill Country and neighboring towns.
Barton Springs
2201 Barton Springs Rd | Daily 5a-10p | $1-3 | Website
Located in the heart of Austin, Barton Springs is the city’s most renowned natural springs. Pay to enter the pool area (note: no food allowed), or head north just past the pool for access to the free area of the springs.
Deep Eddy
401 Deep Eddy | Daily 10a-8p, Closed Tuesdays | $1-3 | Website
In close proximity to Zilker, Deep Eddy is a family favorite and offers space on a hill for picnic lunch and play time (note: no food allowed in pool area).
Georgetown’s Blue Hole
100 Blue Hole Park, Georgetown, TX 78626 | Daily Dawn-Dusk | Free | Website
A bend in the San Gabriel River gives way to this watering hole with a steep cliff overlooking the water and long, rocky banks.
The Greenbelt
3755 Capital of Texas Hwy | Daily Dawn-Dusk | Free | Website
Hike, bike, and swim from dawn to dusk at the Greenbelt. With two small waterfalls on the west side of this lush trail as well as shallow spaces for kids to splash and play, The Greenbelt offers something for everyone.
Hamilton Pool Preserve
24300 Hamilton Pool Rd | Daily 9a-6p, No Entry Past 6:30 | $15/Vehicle | Website
Enjoy the peace of this lagoon, fed by a small waterfall. Come early, as a limited number of people will be let into the preserve daily.
Hippie Hollow (18+)
7000 Comanche Tr | Daily Dawn-Dusk | $15/Vehicle | Website
Austin’s clothing optional beach offers a day of fun in the sun for individuals 18 and older.
Jacob’s Well
1699 Mt. Sharp Rd | Daily 10a-8p | Free-$9 | Website
One of Austin’s most picture-perfect natural watering holes! Plan ahead if visiting Jacob’s Well – You must reserve a two hour swimming slot via the Hays County Website. Visitors are limited to 300/day.
Krause Springs
404 Krause Spring Rd | Daily 9a-9p | Free-$7 | Website
This Hill Country wonderland offers 32 springs and two pools as well as a butterfly garden for visitors to enjoy.
McKinney Falls State Park
5808 McKinney Falls Parkway | Daily 8a-10p | Free-$6 | Website
Spend the day at McKinney Falls hiking and swimming or stay overnight for some Texas tent camping. Multiple watering holes offer plenty of space to explore.
Pace Bend Park
2201 N Pace Bend Rd | Daily Dawn-Dusk | $10/Vehicle | Website
Boating is popular in Pace Bend Park, but the East side of the park as well as Mudd Cover and Gracy Cove are swimming-only areas.
Secret Beach
400 Grove Blvd | Daily 5a-10p | Free | Website
A small stretch of soft sand along the Colorado river can be found in recently-renovated Roy G. Guerrero park. Shallow, clear water makes this a great place to take kids!
Wimberley’s Blue Hole
100 Blue Hole Ln, Wimberley, TX 78676 | Daily 10a-6p | Free-$9
A shady oasis with deep water is great for swimming or jumping from rope swings. A large lawn is great for kids to play!
If you’re looking for another way to enjoy the water, don’t forget to read our Lake Austin & Lake Travis Summer Guide! There are so many fun events happening around Austin this summer and plenty of things to do with kids while they are on summer vacation.
