It’s August, and it’s Austin. That can only mean one thing – if you’re outside the best place to be is in the water. Luckily there is a wealth of springs, rivers and other watering holes to choose from.
We’ve been round and round this city, taking clientele to every corner, nook and little cranny. Along the way we’ve taken note of places where it isn’t so bad to be out of the comfortable, air-conditioned front seat of our cars.
Barton Springs
Many locals and visitors have heard of Barton Springs, but few realize how large and diverse this waterway is. There are actually three areas to enjoy – Barton Springs Pool, dog-friendly Barton Springs Downstream also known as Barking Springs and Barton Creek Greenbelt. The Greenbelt offers a shaded oasis that’s surprising to see within a city. When there’s been a fair amount of rain you can float the creek or just pick a secluded spot for a swim.
Deep Eddy Pool
Down the road from Barton Springs Pool on the other side of MoPac is another natural pool worth taking a dip in. The beautiful blue water of Deep Eddy Pool is spring fed and crystal clear. What began as a swimming hole long ago is now Texas’ oldest man-made pool. This is a great spot for serious swimmers that enjoy getting their exercise by doing laps rather than running the trails.
Big Stacy Pool
Big Stacy Pool in the Travis Heights area is another great option if you like your water to be naturally clean instead of chlorinated. Huge trees surround the pool area and provide shade as well as a beautiful atmosphere. One huge benefit of Big Stacy over Deep Eddy and Barton Springs is the year-round perfect water temperatures.
Private Pools
If you’re looking for a swimming spot that’s a little more exclusive there are a few good private pools in Austin. The Western Hills Athletic Club boasts impressive aquatic features that include a lap pool with 7 lanes, diving and a separate baby pool all of which are open year round for members. Other private pools can be found at the Westover Hills Club, Austin Country Club and Westwood Country Club which is right on Lake Austin.
Lake Travis
Anyone with a boat knows how fun Lake Travis can be whether or not the lake levels are up. But even if you don’t have aquatic transportation you can still enjoy a swim. There are numerous spots all around the lake like Mansfield Dam Park, Hippie Hollow (for those who aren’t afraid of showing more than a little skin) and Pace Bend Park. If you like laying out on a little more sand, Windy Pointe and Volente Beach offer access to the lake along with lots of other amenities.
McKinney Falls
For the outdoorsy types that love all the beauty that Mother Nature is able to conjure, McKinney Falls is an amazing spot to take a break from the heat. As the name implies, whenever the water is flowing from a good rain there is an impressive chain of waterfalls that you can enjoy swimming through.
From natural swimming pools to man made beaches there are plenty of ways to beat the heat this summer in Austin.
Original Source: https://www.royalaustin.com/family-adventures/best-places-to-beat-the-heat-in-austin
Image Source: baltimoresun.com/media/photo/2012-07/70921615.jpg