Cool Pool Party

Garden of Eden Swimming Hole in Santa Cruz

Spending the day at the Garden of Eden in Santa Cruz is accepting an invitation to nature’s most popular pool party. Bring a picnic and pool floats, and swim and lounge in the sun—just be prepared to share the space with others! (Go early in the day to avoid the crowds.) It’s called Garden of Eden for a reason. This swimming hole along the San Lorenzo River, part of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in Felton, is surrounded by beautiful redwoods and Douglas fir trees with plenty of sunlight shining through to make the water swimmable and refreshing. A large swimming hole connects to a smaller swimming hole and the rest of the river. There are plenty of rocks to see and be seen on, as well as a small beach along the waterfront.

There’s another beach area reached only by swimming across the hole. You can also navigate the rocks to walk up the river, where it’s a bit quieter. Arriving before noon will also give you a less crowded experience—most people come in the afternoon when it’s hottest.

The walk to and from the Garden of Eden is a little under 0.75 mile (one way). From Henry Cowell’s Ox Parking Lot, located just south of Felton’s old Toll House Resort on Hwy. 9, simply follow the trail down, turn right at the railroad tracks, and walk along them until you see the “No Diving” and other signs on your left. Follow the path down to the swimming holes. Note: Many people jump from the rocks into the water, and it’s a bad idea, since there are shallow spots and rocks! Always check water levels before taking any type of plunge. No dogs.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Afternoon on the Island

    What is it about tiny islands in the middle of lakes? There’s something that just draws you in. It’s even more fun when getting there is half the adventure because you have to reach it by canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or a ranger-guided boat tour!

    View
  2. Golden Gate's Blue Heron

    Golden Gate Park’s Blue Heron Lake is home to birds of many feathers, turtles lounging on rocks, visitors from afar, and locals who love this urban oasis in San Francisco. Try the "Boats and Breakfast" rowboat or pedal boat deal.

    View
  3. Rio Del Mar-velous

    Rio Del Mar State Beach in Aptos might be one of the best places for a treasure hunt. Its location between two other beaches makes for a good stroll featuring a spectacle of wildlife as you search the sand for sea glass and seashells.

    View
  4. Aloha from California

    Say Aloha without leaving California with a 7-mile out-and-back hiking adventure to Lake Aloha in El Dorado National Forest. You can also camp here, a premier place for stargazing.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. Walking the Los Angeles River Trail Through Frogtown

    Frogtown Strutter’s Stroll

    Don’t go dismissing the Los Angeles River as merely a 51-mile concrete channel. It’s a genuine urban artery that links real neighborhoods, and its riverside bike/ped paths endear i

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Fall for It All in Reno Tahoe

    The best kind of getaway? Less time on logistics, more time on memory-making. Jackpot! You’ve got Reno Tahoe.

    View