Guide to Bodies of Water in Austin
If you’re familiar with Austin, you know that much of the city’s charm lies in its unique mix of picturesque nature and bustling downtown energy. From parks to hiking trails, Austin is also blessed with an abundance of inviting bodies of water that can be found within the city limits and beyond.
Walking Distance from Downtown
Fairmont Austin
Using Fairmont Austin as a starting point, visitors can enjoy easy access to some of the best bodies of water in Austin that are just a short walk away. The first stop is Fairmont Austin’s iconic rooftop pool located on the 7th floor. Enjoy poolside cocktails, private cabanas and sweeping views of the downtown skyline at the landmark hotel. Book a Day Pass
Lady Bird Lake
If you’re searching for more water activities, it’s short walk from the hotel to the tranquil waters of Lady Bird Lake. Located in the heart of the city, this famed destination (also known by some locals as Town Lake) is popular for paddle boarding, kayaking, bat watching, or even a unique Retro Boating Experience..
A Short Drive from Downtown
Barton Springs Pool
Take a quick drive from downtown to one of the crown jewels of Austin – Barton Springs Pool. With crystal-clear, spring-fed waters, this natural pool is the perfect body of water to escape the Texas heat in the summer or for an invigorating swim any time of the year. Only 2 miles from Fairmont Austin, Barton Springs attracts tourists and locals alike, creating a haven for swimmers, sunbathers, and nature enthusiasts to lounge in its peaceful beauty.
Deep Eddy Pool
Another iconic Austin Landmark is Deep Eddy Pool, located just over 2 miles from Fairmont Austin. This man-made swimming pool is rich in heritage and invites visitors to relax, swim, and soak up the sun.
Lake Austin
For more recreational activities like boating and fishing, Lake Austin is the perfect escape from the city’s bustle. Accessible from various parks like Emma Long and Commons Ford, visitors can swim and fish close to the shore for the ultimate summer relaxation.
Escape to Nearby Nature
Wimberly Blue Hole
For a weekend getaway, discover more natural wonders that await in surrounding areas. One of the most popular bodies of water near Austin is Wimberly Blue Hole. Located about 45 minutes south of Austin, Blue Hole is another crystal-clear secluded swimming spot with rope swings and waterside lawns perfect for picnics and sunbathing.
Krause Springs
Another cherished swimming spot and camping site is Krause Springs, located 30 miles west of Austin in the beautiful Texas Hill Country. With stunning natural spring-fed pools, serene waterfalls, and lush greenery, Krause Springs provides an ambience of serene tranquility.
Blue Hole Park
Lastly, a nearby must-visit body of water is Blue Hole Park in Georgetown, located about 30 minutes north of Austin. This scenic lagoon is surrounded by limestone cliffs along the San Gabriel River and offers an ideal free swimming spot during summer. It is also located walking distance from the famed Tex-Mex restaurant El Monumento.
Escape the Texas heat at the many bodies of water Austin has to offer and view their beauty year round. Whether you’re staying at Fairmont Austin or near the downtown area, be sure to add experiencing some or all of the Austin’s famed watering holes.