Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!

E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!

Discover

🌊 Places to Keep Cool in Northern California

21 items

Lawrence Payne

Beat the NorCal heat with this ultimate guide—from adrenaline-pumping water parks like Hurricane Harbor and Golfland Sunsplash to serene natural escapes like Potem Falls, North Fork Falls, and Purdon Crossing. Whether you're craving thrills, shade, o...

Map

Formerly Raging Waters, this newly revamped 23-acre waterpark is packed with slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and splash zones—plus food courts and lounge areas. It offers epic thrills and family-friendly fun in one massive water adventure.

CaliBunga

One of NorCal’s largest floating obstacle course parks featuring ziplines, hamster wheels, wakeboarding, sandy beaches, and a giant water obstacle course—plus food vendors and cabanas. It’s summer perfected.

Wake Island Waterpark

A floating inflatable playground in a refreshing spring-fed lagoon, surrounded by redwoods. It features climbing walls, slides, trampolines, and balance beams—perfect for kids and adults alike.

Spring Lake Lagoon

Part of a beautiful theme park, the Water Oasis offers shaded family splash zones, lazy rivers, and gentle slides—ideal for a chill day for young kids while still being scenic and fun.

Water Oasis

At California’s Great America, this waterpark features wave pools, thrill slides, kiddie play areas, and shaded lounging. Great for a mix of adrenaline and relaxation.

South Bay Shores

A calm, local favorite for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Well-maintained with boat launches, beaches, boat rentals, and paved trails. A peaceful cool-down spot minutes from Sacramento.

Lake Natoma, California

Sparkling mountain lake set beneath the Sierras. Perfect for swimming, fishing, or boating, with clean cold water and breathtaking natural scenery.

Donner Memorial State Park

One of Lake Tahoe’s most photogenic swim spots—cool alpine waters, jagged granite cliffs, and peaceful shoreline. Ideal for a summer escape.

Emerald Bay State Park

A scenic swimming hole with emerald-green pools and granite slabs—great for cliff jumping and wading. Feels like a hidden Gold Country gem.

49er Crossing

California’s oldest natural lake—clear shallows, boat launches, and beaches. Offers swimming, paddleboarding, and fishing with a laid-back local vibe.

Clear Lake | Lake County, CA

A pure spring where the Sacramento River begins—crystal-clear, icy cold, and refreshing. Easily accessible and unmatched for its pristine water quality.

Headwaters Spring

A geothermal spa retreat with natural mineral pools, flumes, and a geyser—perfect for a cool dip followed by soothing hot soak in a rustic, off-grid setting.

Wilbur Hot Springs

Four pools ranging from cool (85°F) to hot (110°F), set at high elevation in a serene valley. Offers chill and soak options for a full relaxing afternoon.

Sierra Hot Springs

Historic natural spring turned resort nestled near Auburn. Say hello to revitalizing, mildly cold water with therapeutic minerals—ideal for a hidden, healing dip.

Kilaga Springs Lodge

Northern California’s largest water park, featuring over 35 attractions—mega slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, splash zones, and private cabanas. Ideal for thrill-seekers or families craving a full day of aquatic fun.

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Concord

A fun-packed combo park with water slides, pools, go‑karts, arcade games, mini‑golf, bumper cars, and more. It’s the ultimate spot for mixed-age groups—splashing, playing, and racing all in one place.

Roseville Golfland Sunsplash

A scenic oasis and waterfall-fed swimming hole tucked in a forest setting. With cliff‑jumping options and serene pools, it’s a gorgeous escape from the heat near the Sierras.

North Fork Falls Waterfall And Swimming Hole At Emigrant Gap

Surrounded by towering redwoods, this family-friendly swimming hole on the South Fork Eel River offers calm waters, jumping rocks, and riverside shade—a timeless NorCal cool-down spot.

Richardson Grove State Park

A hidden gem with a stunning waterfall plunging into a deep pool—complete with a rope swing for thrill-seekers. A perfect summer day trip to beat the heat and recharge.

Potem Falls Trail, California - 373 Reviews, Map

A beloved local swimming hole with emerald pools, sandy entry beaches, and easy access. Families, cliff‑jumpers, and floaters all find their spot here in this picturesque riverside setting.

Purdon Crossing, California - 359 Reviews, Map

A man-made freshwater lake in Tilden Park with sandy beaches, buoys, lifeguards, picnic spots, and ample shade—ideal for a relaxed day by the water near the Bay.

Lake Anza at Tilden Regional Park