The 10 Best Places to Swim in New York

New York is not just a bustling metropolis; it also boasts some fantastic spots for swimming, ranging from urban pools to serene natural lakes.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are plenty of places to take a refreshing dip and enjoy the water. Here, we explore the 10 best places to swim in New York, offering something for every type of swimmer.

1. Central Park’s Gottesman Pool (Formerly Lasker Pool)

📍 Visit the Central Park Davis Center

Located in the heart of Manhattan at the newly renovated Davis Center (formerly the Lasker Rink and Pool), the Gottesman Pool is a popular spot for New Yorkers looking to escape the summer heat. Recently reopened as part of the massive Harlem Meer Center project, this public pool offers an Olympic-sized swimming area and is perfect for both recreational and lap swimming.

It is free and open to the public during the summer months, making it an accessible option for everyone. Surrounded by the lush greenery of Central Park’s northern end, it provides a scenic and relaxing environment for swimmers of all ages.

2. Coney Island Beach and Boardwalk

📍 Visit Coney Island Beach and Boardwalk

Coney Island Beach is one of the most iconic places to swim in New York. This historic destination offers a classic seaside experience with its sandy shores, lively amusement park, and vibrant boardwalk.

Swimming at Coney Island is a treat, with lifeguards on duty during the summer to ensure safety. The beach is perfect for a family outing, with plenty of nearby attractions and food vendors to enjoy after a swim in the Atlantic Ocean.

3. Jones Beach State Park

📍 Visit Jones Beach State Park

Located on Long Island, Jones Beach State Park is a premier destination for beachgoers and swimmers. The park features 6.5 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, providing ample space for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities.

Jones Beach offers numerous amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and concession stands. The clean, well-maintained beaches and the refreshing waters of the Atlantic make it one of the absolute best places to swim in the state.

4. Robert Moses State Park

📍 Visit Robert Moses State Park

Another fantastic swimming spot on Long Island is Robert Moses State Park. Known for its pristine beaches and clear waters, this park is ideal for those looking to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed beach experience.

Robert Moses State Park offers five miles of ocean beach, perfect for swimming, surfing, and fishing. The park also features picnic areas, nature trails, and an 18-hole pitch and putt golf course, making it a great destination for a full day of outdoor activities.

5. Fire Island National Seashore

📍 Visit Fire Island National Seashore

Fire Island National Seashore is a hidden gem for swimmers seeking a tranquil and scenic beach experience. Accessible only by ferry, this barrier island offers unspoiled beaches and a peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The beaches on Fire Island are known for their soft sand and gentle waves, making them ideal for swimming and relaxing. The island also offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring charming seaside communities.

6. Lake George

📍 Visit Lake George

For those who prefer freshwater swimming, Lake George in the Adirondack Mountains is an excellent choice. Known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” Lake George offers crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain scenery.

Swimming in Lake George is a delightful experience, with several public beaches and swimming areas available. The lake is also popular for boating, fishing, and other water sports, providing a vast variety of recreational opportunities.

7. Rockaway Beach

📍 Visit Rockaway Beach

Rockaway Beach in Queens is another great option for beachgoers in New York City. This expansive beach stretches for miles along the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its lively boardwalk and excellent surf conditions.

Rockaway Beach is the perfect spot for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the vibrant beach culture. The beach is easily accessible by public transportation, making it an incredibly convenient choice for city dwellers.

8. Green Lakes State Park

📍 Visit Green Lakes State Park

Located near Syracuse, Green Lakes State Park is home to two stunning glacial lakes, Green Lake and Round Lake. These lakes are known for their unique blue-green color and clear waters, providing a picturesque and highly unique setting for swimming.

Green Lakes State Park offers a sandy beach area for swimming, as well as picnic areas, hiking trails, and a golf course. The park’s natural beauty and serene environment make it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

9. Bear Mountain State Park

📍 Visit Bear Mountain State Park

Bear Mountain State Park, situated along the Hudson River, offers a wide variety of recreational activities, including swimming. The park features a large public swimming pool with incredibly scenic views of the surrounding mountains and river.

In addition to swimming, Bear Mountain State Park offers hiking, boating, and picnicking. The park’s diverse landscape and numerous amenities make it a great place for a family outing or a day of rugged adventure.

10. Saratoga Spa State Park

📍 Visit Saratoga Spa State Park

Saratoga Spa State Park, located in Saratoga Springs, is famous for its mineral springs and historic baths. The park also features two public swimming pools: the Peerless Pool Complex and the Victoria Pool.

The Peerless Pool Complex includes a large main pool, a kiddie pool, and a slide pool, providing fun for swimmers of all ages. The historic Victoria Pool offers a more elegant swimming experience, surrounded by beautiful architecture and lush gardens.