Epic Road Trip Adventure

California Coast Swimming Adventure

From Redwoods to Big Sur: A Pacific Paradise Road Trip

Journey down California's legendary coastline, discovering hidden swimming holes, pristine beaches, and natural pools. This route combines the majesty of Northern California's redwood country with the dramatic beauty of Central Coast destinations.

7 days
Duration
500+ miles
Distance
6
Swimming Stops
Moderate
Difficulty

Your Journey Awaits

Journey down California's legendary coastline, discovering hidden swimming holes, pristine beaches, and natural pools. This route combines the majesty of Northern California's redwood country with the dramatic beauty of Central Coast destinations.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early fall

Trip Details

Duration
7 days
Distance
500+ miles
States
CA
Difficulty
Moderate

Follow the Journey

Watch your adventure unfold along this scenic route. Each stop brings new discoveries and unforgettable swimming experiences.

1
Day 1 • Start your journey

BASS LAKE

Begin your coastal odyssey at this stunning lake where Bass Lake meets the Pacific spirit....

SAN FRANCISCO, MARIN, BOLINAS, CA
2
Day 2 • 4 hours

AQUATIC PARK

Continue south to discover AQUATIC PARK, a hidden gem where nature carved the perfect swimming sanctuary....

SAN FRANCISCO, GHIRARDELLI SQUARE, CA
3
Day 3 • 2 hours

Big Sur Swimming Holes and Coastal Spots

Your journey leads to this remarkable varies - see below where time seems to slow down....

SAN FRANCISCO, MONTEREY, BIG SUR, CA
4
Day 4 • 2 hours

BLOW HOLE

Venture to this pristine location where Pacific Ocean creates a natural paradise for adventurous souls....

SANTA ANNA, LAGUNA BEACH, CA
5
Day 5 • 4 hours

CEDAR CREEK FALLS

Explore this captivating destination where coastal beauty and freshwater swimming converge perfectly....

SAN DIEGO, RAMONA, CA
6
Day 6 • 4 hours

AGUA CALIENTE PARK

Conclude your adventure at this spectacular natural hot spring fed into man-made pools - the perfect finale to your coas...

SAN DIEGO, ALPINE, BORREGO SPRINGS, CA

Detailed Daily Itinerary

1

BASS LAKE

Lake

Begin your coastal odyssey at this stunning lake where Bass Lake meets the Pacific spirit.

Today's Highlights

Secluded freshwater lake in Point Reyes National Seashore
Rope swing for thrill-seekers
Scenic hike with ocean views
Abundant wildlife and coastal vegetation
No fees; primitive camping available nearby
Explore This Stop

Stop Details

Location
SAN FRANCISCO, MARIN, BOLINAS, CA
Travel Time
Start your journey
Water Body
Bass Lake
Entry Fee
Free
2

AQUATIC PARK

Spring-fed pool

Continue south to discover AQUATIC PARK, a hidden gem where nature carved the perfect swimming sanctuary.

Today's Highlights

Historic National Landmark status
Calm, sheltered bay waters
Easy access via cable car
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Proximity to iconic San Francisco attractions
Explore This Stop

Stop Details

Location
SAN FRANCISCO, GHIRARDELLI SQUARE, CA
Travel Time
4 hours
Water Body
San Francisco Bay
Entry Fee
Yes - see web sites above
3

Big Sur Swimming Holes and Coastal Spots

Varies - see below

Your journey leads to this remarkable varies - see below where time seems to slow down.

Today's Highlights

Four distinct swimming holes
Ancient redwoods and wildlife
Hot tubs at Esalen Institute
Scenic photography spots
Comprehensive park facilities
Explore This Stop

Stop Details

Location
SAN FRANCISCO, MONTEREY, BIG SUR, CA
Travel Time
2 hours
Water Body
Varies - see below
Entry Fee
Yes
4

BLOW HOLE

Cave in rocks near beach where ocean waves fill and empty.

Venture to this pristine location where Pacific Ocean creates a natural paradise for adventurous souls.

Today's Highlights

Rugged coastal scenery
Dynamic wave action
Challenging swimming conditions
Rocky reefs for diving
Photography opportunities
Explore This Stop

Stop Details

Location
SANTA ANNA, LAGUNA BEACH, CA
Travel Time
2 hours
Water Body
Pacific Ocean
Entry Fee
Unknown
5

CEDAR CREEK FALLS

Falls

Explore this captivating destination where coastal beauty and freshwater swimming converge perfectly.

Today's Highlights

80-foot cascading waterfall
Deep, aquamarine swimming pool
2.5-mile scenic hike each way
Seasonally active waterfall
Stunning photography opportunities
Explore This Stop

Stop Details

Location
SAN DIEGO, RAMONA, CA
Travel Time
4 hours
Water Body
Cedar Creek
Entry Fee
To park on any Cleveland National Forest lands, you must display an Adventure Pass, available at ranger stations, as well as outdoor stores like REI
6

AGUA CALIENTE PARK

Natural hot spring fed into man-made pools

Conclude your adventure at this spectacular natural hot spring fed into man-made pools - the perfect finale to your coastal journey.

Today's Highlights

Soothing hot springs
Family-friendly swimming
Winter camping
Desert wildlife sightings
Stunning photography opportunities
Explore This Stop

Stop Details

Location
SAN DIEGO, ALPINE, BORREGO SPRINGS, CA
Travel Time
4 hours
Water Body
Hot springs
Entry Fee
Yes - see web site above

Ready to Start Your Adventure?

Discover all the swimming destinations waiting for you across America

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