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Best Lakes For Swimming In Southern California (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a refreshing way to spend a hot summer day in Southern California, then why not take a dip in one of the many lakes that the region has to offer? Whether you're looking for a relaxing swim, water sports, or just some quality time with family and friends, Southern California is the place to be.

Before diving into any of the lakes, there are some factors to consider. Firstly, choosing a lake with clear and clean water is crucial for your health and safety. Also, check the water temperature, as the swimming conditions can vary from lake to lake. You may also want to consider the location and accessibility of the lake, as well as any amenities like restrooms, food, parking, and lifeguards.

Are you curious about the best lakes for swimming in Southern California? Which ones offer water sports like jet skiing and kayaking? What's the best time to visit these lakes, and are there any admission fees or parking charges? With so many beautiful lakes to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to visit. But don't worry, we've got you covered! Our article will provide all the answers to your questions and guide you in making the most of your summer vacation.

10 Best Lakes For Swimming In Southern California

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for relaxing and floating in the pool comfortably.
2
The product is ideal for improving swimming technique and building strength through resistance training.
3
This product is ideal for pool aerobics, aquatic workouts, and recreational use.
4
Ideal for outdoor activities involving water, such as swimming and surfing, providing UPF 50+ sun protection.
5
This product is ideal for protecting your skin from the sun while engaging in outdoor activities.
6
Ideal for water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, and surfing, providing full body coverage with a front zip design.
7
This product is ideal for outdoor activities such as cycling, running, golfing, and mountain biking in rainy conditions.
8
Sanuk Chiba Brown 11 is ideal for casual wear and offers comfort, breathability, and a slip-on design.
9
The product is ideal for showing support for California State University, Long Beach's sports team with a heritage-inspired design.
10
It is ideal for kids who want to show off their love from someone in California.
The product is ideal for relaxing and floating in the pool comfortably.
The product is ideal for improving swimming technique and building strength through resistance training.
This product is ideal for pool aerobics, aquatic workouts, and recreational use.
Ideal for outdoor activities involving water, such as swimming and surfing, providing UPF 50+ sun protection.
This product is ideal for protecting your skin from the sun while engaging in outdoor activities.
Ideal for water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, and surfing, providing full body coverage with a front zip design.
This product is ideal for outdoor activities such as cycling, running, golfing, and mountain biking in rainy conditions.
Sanuk Chiba Brown 11 is ideal for casual wear and offers comfort, breathability, and a slip-on design.
The product is ideal for showing support for California State University, Long Beach's sports team with a heritage-inspired design.
It is ideal for kids who want to show off their love from someone in California.

1. Airhead Sun Comfort Saddle Pool Float

Experience a comfortable and refreshing floating sensation while you stay cool riding the water with Airhead Comfort Saddle. Measuring 32” x 16” x 1.25 inches, this pool and lake float is perfect for family fun since 1991. The Comfort Saddle is made from ecocell foam, an environmentally friendly and 100% PVC-free long-lasting foam that won't absorb water or peel, crack, or tear, ensuring years of enjoyment. The closed cell foam technology also ensures that the float remains comfortable next to skin, with no harmful off-gassing or oils touching your skin.

Whether you're in the calm waters of a pool or a lake, the Comfort Saddle is perfect for both. The float comes equipped with an easy carry handle, making it easy to transport. The Airhead Sports Group focuses on creating quality, fun-promoting products for watersports, wintersports, and leisure brands that encourage kids and adults to get outdoors, be active, and, most importantly, have fun.

Pros

  • Made from ecocell foam, an environmentally friendly and 100% PVC-free long-lasting foam
  • Closed cell foam technology ensures that the float remains comfortable next to skin
  • Easy carry handle makes it easy to transport
  • Perfect for both pool and lake use
  • Durable with years of enjoyment

2. Aquafit Resistance Kit: Ultimate Stationary Swim Training Solution.

Looking for an exceptional value for money swimming tether trainer kit? Look no further! This swim training bundle includes a bungee rope, waist tether training, static strap, and storage bag. Unlike our competitors, we offer high-quality products in one custom bundle. Take your swimming training to the next level with our swim training belt and workout accessories. These tools can be used in the pool to add intensity to your drills and improve your gains.

With our swimming training belt and ankle bands, you can move more freely and develop all of your body's muscles and joints for a greater range of motion and improved balance. Swimming is an excellent exercise that helps build strength and develop muscles. By using our swim belt and ankle strap regularly, you can work your way towards your dream figure in no time. This swim training kit is perfect for anyone and includes a static swimming belt, progressive swim trainer, and aqua jogger belt. It works as a parachute for kids and adults, swim belts for kids, and a swim harness static.

Pros

  • Exceptional value for money with high-quality products included in one custom bundle
  • Swimming training belt and ankle bands help develop all of the body's muscles and joints for a greater range of motion and improved balance
  • Swimming is an excellent exercise that helps build strength and develop muscles

3. Blue Nekdoodle: Aquatic Fun & Fitness Essential

The Nekdoodle Swimming Collar is a revolutionary product that provides you with soft cushion and support for your head and neck during various pool exercises, such as water aerobics, therapy and rehabilitation, and recreational activities. Its innovative design allows you to perform a wide range of aquatic exercise routines, including stretching, core movements, balance, cardio, supine movements, and cool down exercises. With Nekdoodle, you can enjoy a hands-free swimming or floating experience while receiving maximum support for your head and neck.

This multi-functional product can be used as a swim training aid, swimming kickboard, swimming pool float, pool spa pillow, poolside cushion, and pool neck support. Its vinyl-coated foam material makes it highly durable, and its one-size-fits-most design ensures that it fits comfortably around your neck. Although it may feel tight initially, it will adjust to your neck comfortably in water and with multiple uses.

Customers have praised the Nekdoodle Swimming Collar for its effectiveness in helping them overcome their fear of water, perform physical therapy exercises, and learn to swim. It is a must-have product for anyone who wants to enjoy a safe, comfortable, and fun swimming experience.

Pros

  • Provides soft cushion and support for head and neck during pool exercises
  • Allows for a wide range of aquatic exercise routines
  • Can be used as a swim training aid, swimming kickboard, and pool float
  • Vinyl-coated foam material makes it highly durable
  • One-size-fits-most design ensures comfortable fit

Cons

  • – May feel tight initially

4. Kanu Surf Men's Short Sleeve Upf 50+ Swim Shirt (Regular & Extended Sizes), Black, X-Large

Upgrade your swimwear collection with this high-quality short-sleeve rashguard. Made from 100% polyester, this rashguard is comfortable and durable, perfect for any water activity. The raglan seaming and crew neckline provide a stylish look while also offering maximum flexibility and ease of movement. Whether you're surfing, swimming, or just lounging by the pool, this rashguard is sure to keep you protected from the sun and looking great.

This rashguard is also easy to care for. Simply toss it in the washing machine for a quick and easy clean. With its high-quality construction and stylish design, this rashguard is sure to be a favorite in your swimwear collection for years to come.

Pros

  • Made from 100% polyester for comfort and durability
  • Raglan seaming and crew neckline provide maximum flexibility and ease of movement
  • Offers protection from the sun during water activities
  • Stylish design adds a fashionable touch to any swimwear collection
  • Easy to care for with simple machine washing

5. O'neill Men's Basic Skins Upf 50+ Short Sleeve Sun Shirt,pacific,x-Large

When it comes to water sports, sun protection is a must. The Slim Fit rash guard is a great option for those who want to stay protected while enjoying their favorite water activities. It fits close to the body, but is not tight, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.

One of the best things about this rash guard is that it has been recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. It has a UPF 50+ rating, which means that it provides excellent protection from ultraviolet rays. This is especially important for those who spend a lot of time in the sun, as overexposure can lead to skin damage and even cancer.

The Slim Fit rash guard is perfect for a variety of water activities, including surfing, swimming, paddle sports, boating, and beach days. Its 6oz polyester/spandex construction is both comfortable and durable, so you can wear it season after season. The minimal seam placement also provides maximum rash protection, so you can stay comfortable and protected all day long.

Pros

  • Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation for its UPF 50+ ultraviolet protection
  • Comfortable yet durable 6oz polyester/spandex construction
  • Minimal seam placement for maximum rash protection

6. Zcco Front-Zip Neoprene Wetsuit: Dive, Surf, Swim!

Experience warmth and comfort in the water with this ultra-stretchy neoprene wet suit that is 3mm thick. This wet suit is designed with four small zippers at the arms and legs, making it easy to take off and put on compared to other wet suits. It also features a waterstop seal with smooth skin neoprene inner at the collar, arm, and legs, ensuring that less water enters the suit and sticks to your skin tightly. The anti-abrasion knee pad provides extra protection for your knees. When worn tightly, this wet suit quickly warms up against your skin, keeping you warm and cozy in the water.

This wet suit is perfect for people who want to stay warm while enjoying water activities such as surfing, diving, or swimming. Its high-quality material and excellent design make it a must-have for water enthusiasts. The suit is available in various sizes to fit different body types, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the water without feeling cold.

Invest in this wet suit and enjoy the water like never before. It is a perfect combination of style, functionality and comfort, making it an excellent choice for anyone who loves water sports.

Pros

  • Ultra-stretchy neoprene material for maximum comfort and flexibility
  • Four small zippers make it easy to take off and put on
  • Smooth skin neoprene inner at the collar, arm, and legs to prevent water from entering
  • Anti-abrasion knee pad for added protection
  • Quickly warms up against the skin to keep you warm in the water
  • Available in various sizes to fit different body types

7. Baleaf Reflective Rain Jacket For Men

Stay dry and comfortable during rainy days with this Waterproof and Lightweight Jacket. Its interior features a laminated TPU membrane with 5000mm waterproofing and 3000g/m2/24hr breathability that effectively repels water while allowing air to circulate. The jacket also features a ventilation system in the back that helps keep you cool and dry. Its hem anti-skid design prevents the jacket from riding up while you move around.

For added safety during low-light environments, the jacket features reflective stripes and a reflective logo design that make you visible to others. The jacket also has six pockets where you can securely store your items, including a back pocket, chest pocket, two hand pockets, and two inner pockets that can fit a 5.5-inch mobile phone. The jacket is machine washable in cold water, making it easy to maintain.

The packable design of this jacket allows you to easily store it in its own back pocket when not in use, making it convenient to carry around. Its big hood design effectively keeps rain from coming into your eyes, providing better visibility during rainy days.

This jacket is perfect for outdoor activities such as cycling, running, hiking, jogging, climbing, camping and more. Its waterproof and breathable fabric, reflective features, and convenient pockets make it a practical choice for anyone who loves outdoor adventures.

Pros

  • Waterproof and breathable fabric keeps you dry and comfortable
  • Ventilation system in the back helps keep you cool and dry
  • Reflective stripes and logo design enhance visibility during low-light environments
  • Six pockets provide ample storage for your items
  • Packable design makes it easy to carry around
  • Big hood design prevents rain from coming into your eyes

Cons

  • – No information provided

8. Sanuk Chiba Brown 11

Get ready to relax and unwind with the Sanuk™ Chiba. Whether you're lounging on the beach or at home on your couch, this shoe has got you covered. The textile upper is durable and features frayed edges for a stylish touch. The tongue is adorned with a Sanuk sewn-on label that adds to its charm. The shoe boasts of a textile lining that provides ultimate comfort to your feet. The signature Sanuk EVA bottom ensures that your feet stay cushioned all day long. The synthetic Happy-U tread outsole gives you a firm grip on any surface.

These shoes weigh only 8 oz and are available in size 8, width D – Medium. Please note that the measurements may vary by size. Keep in mind that the weight of the footwear is based on a single item, not a pair. So, go ahead and add the Sanuk™ Chiba to your footwear collection for the ultimate relaxation experience.

Pros

  • Durable textile upper
  • Provides ultimate comfort
  • Signature Sanuk EVA bottom for cushioning
  • Synthetic Happy-U tread outsole for a firm grip

Cons

  • – Limited color options

9. Csulb 49ers Heritage Tee (Black, Large)

Show off your California State University, Long Beach school pride with this comfortable and soft short sleeve tee. Made from a premium quality blend of 100% cotton, this shirt is durable, cozy, and breathable, ensuring a long-lasting performance. The shirt is made from 5.3 oz pre-shrunk super soft ringspun cotton that runs true to size, making it comfortable to wear. The vibrant and durable graphics of the screen printed California State University, Long Beach name will not fade over time. The Long Beach 49ers name is prominently silkscreened in the traditional, classic, and official letter block font, making it an ideal shirt for men and women. Women should consider ordering one size down. This shirt is exclusively designed and printed for 49ers fans, students, and alumni in the US, while the high-quality garment is imported. It makes the perfect birthday, Christmas, or graduation gift. This authentic, officially licensed shirt comes with an officially licensed tag ensuring no counterfeit designs or colors. We stand behind every garment we sell and offer a 100% Satisfaction guarantee. We serve students, fans, and alumni with men's apparel and women's apparel who are passionate about their alma mater. If you are not satisfied with your shirt, fleece, or sweatshirt, we will replace it or refund you immediately.

Pros

  • Made from a premium quality blend of 100% cotton, this shirt is durable, cozy, and breathable, ensuring a long-lasting performance.
  • The screen printed California State University, Long Beach name will not fade over time.
  • The Long Beach 49ers name is prominently silkscreened in the traditional, classic, and official letter block font, making it an ideal shirt for men and women.
  • This authentic, officially licensed shirt comes with an officially licensed tag ensuring no counterfeit designs or colors.
  • We stand behind every garment we sell and offer a 100% Satisfaction guarantee.

Cons

  • – None found.

10. Kids Someone In California Loves Me Kids Boys Girls T-Shirt

Express your love for someone in California with this charming gift shirt or hoodie. Perfect for boys, girls, kids, and youth of all ages, this tee is a great way to show your affection for your son, daughter, grandson, granddaughter, grandkid, or any loved one residing in California. The shirt features a simple yet elegant design, with the words 'Someone in California Loves Me' printed in bold, eye-catching letters. This shirt is versatile and can be worn on any occasion, be it a casual outing or a family get-together.

Made from high-quality materials, this shirt is comfortable to wear and easy to maintain. Its lightweight and classic fit make it suitable for all body types, and the double-needle sleeve and bottom hem ensure durability and longevity. Available in a range of colors, this shirt is perfect for gifting on birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Click on the brand to explore more cities and options and find the perfect gift for your loved one in California.

Pros

  • Simple yet elegant design
  • Comfortable and easy to maintain
  • Suitable for all body types
  • Available in a range of colors
  • Versatile and suitable for any occasion
  • Durable and long-lasting

Cons

  • – Limited to California residents

Best Lakes For Swimming In Southern California FAQs

Are there any fees or permits required to swim in Southern California lakes?

Yes, there are typically fees and permits required to swim in Southern California lakes. Each lake may have its own specific regulations and requirements, so it's important to check with the specific lake you plan to swim in. In general, many lakes require visitors to pay an entrance fee, parking fee, or both. Some lakes may also require visitors to obtain a permit or pass, which can often be purchased online or at a nearby park office. Additionally, some lakes may have specific rules or restrictions on swimming, such as designated areas or certain times of day. It's always a good idea to check with the lake's website or local authorities to ensure that you are following all rules and regulations before taking a dip.

Are there any lakes in Southern California that have beaches for swimming?

Yes, there are several lakes in Southern California that have beaches for swimming. One of the most popular ones is Lake Perris, which is located in Riverside County. This lake has a large sandy beach area that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Another great option is Lake Elsinore, which is also located in Riverside County. This lake has several beaches where visitors can swim, fish, and enjoy water sports. Other lakes in Southern California that have beaches for swimming include Silverwood Lake, Castaic Lake, and Lake Cachuma. It's important to note that some of these lakes may have restrictions or closures due to weather or water conditions, so it's always a good idea to check with the local authorities before planning a trip. Overall, Southern California offers plenty of options for those looking to cool off in the water during the hot summer months.

What are some popular lakes for swimming in Southern California?

Southern California is blessed with several natural and man-made lakes that provide a refreshing break from the scorching heat. If you are looking for a serene and peaceful environment to swim in, Lake Gregory in Crestline is an ideal option. It offers crystal-clear water, sandy beaches, and a scenic backdrop. Another popular lake is Lake Perris, located in Moreno Valley. The lake is renowned for its various water activities, such as boating, fishing, and swimming. You can also visit Lake Elsinore, which is the largest freshwater lake in Southern California. It is famous for its blue-green waters and attracts visitors for swimming, fishing, and boating. For those looking for a more urban vibe, Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles is a great option. It boasts a beautiful fountain, paddle boats, and an artificial waterfall. Overall, Southern California has many lakes to choose from, each with its unique features and attractions.

What are the safety precautions and regulations for swimming in Southern California lakes?

Swimming in Southern California lakes can be an exciting and enjoyable experience, but it's important to be aware of safety precautions and regulations to prevent accidents and injuries. Firstly, it's important to check the weather conditions before heading out for a swim. Southern California is known for unexpected weather changes, and sudden storms can make swimming in lakes dangerous. Secondly, always swim in designated areas and obey all posted signs and instructions from lifeguards. It's important to have a basic understanding of water safety techniques and to never swim alone. Additionally, it's important to be aware of water quality conditions, as some lakes may have high levels of bacteria or other contaminants that can be harmful to swimmers. Finally, it's important to wear appropriate safety gear, such as a life jacket, and to stay hydrated while swimming. By following these safety precautions and regulations, you can enjoy a safe and fun swimming experience in Southern California lakes.

What are the water temperatures like in Southern California lakes for swimming?

The water temperatures in Southern California lakes vary depending on the season and the location. During the summertime, the water temperatures in most of the lakes are warm and comfortable for swimming, ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit. However, during the winter months, the temperatures can drop below 50°F, making it too cold for most people to swim. Additionally, some lakes that are located in higher elevations may have colder water temperatures year-round. It's always a good idea to check the current water temperatures before planning a trip to a Southern California lake for swimming. You can usually find this information online or by contacting the park or lake directly. Remember to always practice water safety and follow any posted rules and regulations while swimming in Southern California lakes.

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