Best Swimming Holes in Sedona (2026 Guide for Summer)
If you’re visiting Sedona in the summer, finding a good swimming hole is essential. While Sedona is known for its hiking, some of the best experiences here involve cooling off in the water—whether that’s sliding down red rock at Slide Rock State Park or hiking out to hidden spots like The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek.
In this guide, I’m sharing the best swimming holes in Sedona, what each one is like, and a few tips to help you plan your day—because not all of these spots are created equal (and some definitely get more crowded than others).
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Best Swimming Holes in Sedona (Quick Guide)
If you’re trying to decide which swimming hole in Sedona to visit, here’s a quick breakdown of the best spots. Each one offers something a little different—from easy access and family-friendly areas to more adventurous hikes with deeper water and cliff jumping.
Tips for Visiting Swimming Holes in Sedona (Best Time to Go + What to Know)
Go Early (Especially in Summer)
Sedona’s most popular swimming holes—like Slide Rock and Grasshopper Point—fill up quickly, especially between late morning and early afternoon. Arriving before 8–9am gives you the best chance at easier parking, smaller crowds, and cooler temperatures.
Best Time of Year to Visit
The best time to visit swimming holes in Sedona is typically late spring through early fall (May–September) when temperatures are warm enough to comfortably swim.
- Summer (June–August): Best for swimming, but expect heat and crowds
- Spring & Fall: Fewer crowds, but water may be colder
- Winter: Not ideal for swimming, but still beautiful for hiking
Watch for Monsoon Season
If you’re visiting between July and September, keep an eye on the weather. Flash flooding can happen quickly in canyons and creek areas—even if storms are miles away. Always check the forecast before heading out and avoid swimming holes if storms are expected.
Bring Water Shoes
Many of Sedona’s swimming holes have rocky or slippery creek beds, so water shoes or sandals with grip make a big difference—especially at places like West Fork or The Crack.
Pack More Water Than You Think
Even if you’re planning to spend time near the water, Sedona heat is no joke—especially on exposed trails. Bring plenty of water and consider adding electrolytes if you’re hiking in.
Respect the Area
Sedona’s natural areas are incredibly special, so be sure to practice Leave No Trace:
- Pack out all trash
- Stay on designated trails
- Avoid disturbing wildlife
Best Swimming Holes in Sedona to Visit This Summer
From easy-access creek spots to more adventurous hikes with hidden swimming holes, Sedona has a surprising variety of places to cool off in the warmer months. Whether you’re looking for a quick stop after a hike or planning a full day by the water, each of these locations offers something a little different.
Below are some of the best swimming holes in Sedona, including what makes each one unique and how to choose the right spot based on your time, comfort level, and the type of experience you’re looking for
Best for: Families, easy access, natural waterslide
Difficulty: Easy
Fee: $20–$30 per vehicle depending on season (higher in summer)
Slide Rock State Park is one of the most popular swimming holes in Sedona, known for its natural red rock waterslide and easy access right from the parking area. It’s a fun and scenic spot to cool off, especially in the summer.
That said, it gets very busy, so arriving early is key if you want to avoid crowds. I don’t go here often because of crowds, but it is beautiful.
Midgley Bridge (Oak Creek)
Best for: Scenic views, quick creek access
Difficulty: Easy
Fee: Red Rock Pass required for parking
Midgley Bridge is one of the easiest places to access the creek in Sedona, with beautiful views right from the bridge and short trails that lead down to the water. Since you need to hike to get to this watering hole, I suggest sturdy shoes and a backpack so you can be hands-free. I have seen families try to bring large chairs and coolers down here and I DO NOT recommend this. You will use THIS TRAIL to get to Oak Creek, but you’re not doing the whole trail. You will be starting from the END of the trail, and only going down the canyon 0.5 mi and 200 ft down.
While it’s usually less crowded than places like Slide Rock, parking is limited—so arriving early or going during off-peak times is your best bet.
Grasshopper Point
Best for: Quick swim, relaxing, easy access
Difficulty: Easy
Fee: $10 per vehicle (cash only)
Grasshopper Point is one of the easiest and most popular places to swim in Sedona, with a short walk from the parking lot leading to a calm section of Oak Creek. It’s a great spot to relax by the water, swim, or even do a small cliff jump from the surrounding rocks.
Because of its easy access, it can get busy in the summer, so arriving early is the best way to get a good spot.
West Fork Trail of Oak Creek
Best for: Shaded hike, scenic creek crossings
Difficulty: Moderate
Fee: $12 per vehicle
West Fork Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Sedona, with multiple creek crossings, shaded canyon walls, and several spots where you can stop to cool off in the water. While it’s not a traditional “swimming hole,” you’ll find plenty of areas to wade and relax along the creek.
Because of its popularity—especially in the fall and summer—parking can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended. Below is a photo of me hiking there in the fall, but I have been in summer as well!
“The Crack” At Wet Beaver Creek
Best for: Adventure, cliff jumping, swimming hole
Difficulty: Moderate
Fee: Free
The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek is one of the most unique swimming holes near Sedona, featuring a deep, narrow section of water surrounded by red rock canyon walls. It requires a longer hike to reach, but the payoff is a refreshing place to swim—with optional cliff jumping for those feeling adventurous.
Because of the hike in, it tends to be less crowded than easier-access spots, but it can still get busy on weekends—especially in the summer.
Crescent Moon Ranch/ Buddha Beach
Best for: Iconic views, relaxing by the water
Difficulty: Easy
Fee: $12 per vehicle
Crescent Moon Ranch is one of the most scenic places to relax by the water in Sedona, with calm sections of Oak Creek and incredible views of Cathedral Rock. It’s an easy-access spot where you can wade, cool off, or just enjoy the setting.
It’s a popular location—especially for sunset—so expect some crowds and plan to arrive early if you want a good spot.
Bootlegger Picnic Area
Best for: Quieter spot, relaxing by the creek
Difficulty: Easy
Fee: Red Rock Pass required for parking
Bootlegger Picnic Area is a more low-key swimming spot along Oak Creek, making it a great option if you’re looking to avoid the larger crowds at places like Slide Rock or Grasshopper Point. It’s easy to access with a short walk to the water and a few shaded areas to relax. Below is a photo of me there in the fall- I will definitely be back in summer!
While it’s generally less busy, parking is limited—so arriving earlier in the day will give you the best chance at finding a spot.
What to Pack for Sedona Swimming Holes
Packing the right gear can make a big difference when visiting swimming holes in Sedona—especially in the summer heat. Here are a few essentials to bring for a comfortable and safe experience:
- Water shoes or sandals with grip – Many areas have rocky, slippery creek beds, so these help a lot for both walking and getting in and out of the water
- Plenty of water + electrolytes – Even near the creek, the heat can be intense—staying hydrated is key
- Towel + swimsuit – Especially if you’re planning to spend time swimming or relaxing by the water
- Dry bag or waterproof pouch – Great for keeping your phone, keys, and valuables safe
- Sunscreen + hat – Some spots have little shade, so sun protection is important
- Snacks or a light picnic – Perfect for spending a few hours at spots like Grasshopper Point or Crescent Moon Ranch
If you’re hiking to more remote locations like The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek, you may also want to bring a small daypack to carry everything comfortably.
Where to Stay in Sedona for Easy Access to Swimming Holes
If you’re planning to explore multiple swimming holes in Sedona, staying centrally will make it much easier to get around. Most of the spots on this list are within a short drive of central Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon.
- Luxury: L’Auberge de Sedona – beautiful creekside setting and one of the most scenic stays in Sedona
- Mid-Range: Arabella Hotel Sedona – great location, views, and easy access to trails and swimming spots
- Budget: GreenTree Inn Sedona – simple, affordable option close to town
If you’re planning to visit places like Slide Rock or Grasshopper Point, staying near Oak Creek Canyon can be especially convenient. For a mix of restaurants, shops, and easy access to multiple trailheads, central Sedona is a great base.
👉 For more options, check out my full guide on where to stay in Sedona, with recommendations by budget, location, and trip style.
Map of Sedona Swimming Holes
To help you plan your trip, I’ve mapped out all of the swimming holes in Sedona mentioned in this guide. Many of these spots are located along Oak Creek Canyon, making it easy to visit a few in one day if you plan your route ahead of time.
Most locations are within 15–30 minutes of central Sedona, with a few—like The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek—requiring a slightly longer drive and hike.
Final Thoughts on Swimming Holes in Sedona
Sedona offers a surprisingly wide variety of swimming holes, from easy-access spots like Slide Rock and Grasshopper Point to more adventurous destinations like The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek. Whether you’re looking for a quick place to cool off or planning a full day by the water, there’s something here for every type of trip.
If you’re visiting in the summer, planning ahead—especially around timing, parking, and heat—can make all the difference. Arriving early and choosing the right spot based on your energy level and plans will help you get the most out of your day.
No matter which one you choose, spending time by the water is easily one of the best ways to experience Sedona in the warmer months.
