When the temperature climbs and the humidity sets in, there’s nothing quite like New Brunswick’s secret weapon: a province absolutely riddled with waterfalls, granite-carved pools, hidden coves, and warm saltwater beaches. From cliff-jumping spots in the woods near Fredericton to the warmest saltwater beaches north of Virginia on the Acadian Coast, here are ten swimming holes worth the drive (and sometimes the hike) this summer.
1. Crooked Creek Falls, Riverside-Albert
Tucked into the hills of Albert County, this swimming hole is one of the most popular freshwater spots in the area among people who love rocks, trees, and fresh water. The hike in is short but steep, the views from the top and bottom of the falls are gorgeous, and fair warning: it’s some of the coldest water around, so save it for the hottest days of summer.
2. Quiddy Falls, Waterford
This is the kind of place that gets passed around in whispers among locals. The roughly fifteen-minute hike in winds through scenery that feels almost enchanted in places, with a few steep sections where you’ll want to use a rope to climb down. The payoff is a deep, clear pool beneath a wide waterfall, and the water here runs noticeably warmer than other nearby spots.
3. Raggedy Ass Falls, near Wirral
Don’t let the name fool you. This is a complex of four waterfalls twisting through bedrock, dropping a total of twenty metres, with an easy-to-find trail leading most of the way there. The uppermost falls is the prettiest of the bunch, where the brook slides over a rock face into a large pool perfect for a cooling dip after the hike.
4. Moosehorn Falls, Fundy National Park
Starting from Laverty Falls, the Moosehorn Trail follows the stream as it carves its way through granite. The slabs here have been sculpted into dozens of small waterfalls and pools, including one circular pool that resembles a hot tub, so there’s no shortage of spots to pick your favourite.
5. Laverty Falls, Fundy National Park
If you only have time for one stop in Fundy National Park, make it this one. The trail leads to unspoiled falls with swimming at the base, and hiking further past the falls reveals several large, natural rocky swimming holes worth exploring before you head back out.
6. Moss Glen Falls, Kingston Peninsula
A longtime local favourite, this spot has a loyal following for good reason. The falls has a deep pool that’s great for swimming, with an area above suitable for jumping, and a second, larger waterfall a short walk upstream that’s worth seeing even if you don’t swim there. Because parts of the surrounding land are privately owned, it’s worth being respectful of the property and packing out anything you bring in.
7. Mactaquac Coves, near Fredericton
Just past Mactaquac Provincial Park, the road winds along the lake and reveals a series of secluded coves perfect for a quiet swim away from the crowds. It’s an unofficial spot with no facilities or fees, so come prepared and use caution. Nearby, the Mactaquac Cliffs offer a more adventurous option for confident swimmers looking to jump into deep water.
8. Parlee Beach, Shediac
For something completely different, head to the Acadian Coast. New Brunswick is home to several warm saltwater beaches, and the province boasts Canada’s warmest saltwater waters north of Virginia right here at Parlee Beach. It’s a fully serviced provincial park beach, making it an easy choice for families who want sand, warm water, and amenities all in one place. Just check the water quality advisories before you go, since conditions are monitored throughout the season.
9. Hopper Hole, Colpitt’s Settlement
A popular gathering spot in southeastern New Brunswick, Hopper Hole has a rope swing and a sandy beach you can drive right up to. It’s an easy, low-effort option if you’re short on time or hiking gear, though as with any unmonitored swimming hole, it’s worth checking recent water quality results before jumping in.
10. Glenn Moss area pools, Kingston Peninsula
Beyond the main falls, locals describe a stretch of the river dotted with beautiful natural whirlpools and other striking rock formations further upstream past the head pond. It’s less of a single destination and more of an invitation to wander and find your own favourite pool along the way.
A few notes before you go: most of these are unofficial, unmonitored swimming spots with no lifeguards, facilities, or posted safety information, so always swim with a buddy, check current conditions, and be cautious around cliff jumping and rope swings. For monitored beaches with regular water quality testing, check the Swim Guide app or New Brunswick’s beach water quality page before heading out. And wherever you go, pack out what you bring in so these spots stay beautiful for the next person.
