Without a doubt, swimming in open water is a great goal for an athlete, even for an expert in pool swimming.
Swimming in open water is quite a challenge, there is no doubt about that. But if we go to certain places to train or compete, the effort will have its rewards . In this article we will tell you about the best destinations to practice this demanding sport.
Where to swim in open water?
Swimming in a pool is not the same as swimming in open water, that is undeniable. In the first case, we are ‘bound’, while in the second we have a whole sea or river to ourselves. If you want to have your first swimming experience in the middle of nature, we recommend these places:
1. Bacalar (Mexico)
No one can deny that Mexican beaches are paradisiacal… white sands, crystal clear waters, and in many cases, no waves. In the city of Bacalar, in the south of the Yucatan Peninsula, we can find a beautiful lagoon of seven colors , whose water changes color depending on the depth.
Another option for open water swimming in this area is the Cenote Azul , a large natural ditch surrounded by lianas that sway according to the wind.
2. Playa America (Spain)
It is located in Galicia, more precisely in Nigrán, and has been awarded the blue flag in the 1990s due to its conditions and facilities. América beach has calm and very clean waters, with almost two kilometers of sand and open sea , ideal for swimming or practicing other water sports.
In addition to being easily accessible, the water on this beach has an average temperature of 20°C in summer.
3. Alto ParaÃso de Goiás (Brazil)
Already reading the name we can imagine what we will see and enjoy. This paradise is very close to the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, an enclave of biodiversity, canyons and waterfalls such as those of Sao Benito, Almécegas and Loquinhas .
The best time of the year to visit this area is between the months of May and September (dry season), because in the other months the rains make the place practically impenetrable.
4. Khao Sok (Thailand)
Khao Sok National Park is a paradise for open water swimming, because its calm and warm waters are surrounded by limestone blocks and many acres of tropical jungle.
Although it is an artificial lake, Khao Sok is cared for by orchids, water lilies, bamboos and many butterflies. Being able to swim here is wonderful.
5.Sao Jorge (Portugal)
We refer to the island located in the middle of the Azores archipelago, an increasingly popular place among tourists who want to enjoy nature at its best. At 48 kilometers long, Sao Jorge is perfect for open water swimming.
You will be able to see between strokes the rocky hills that surround this beach. And after the session in the water, we recommend that you visit its mountains, its lakes and its semi-tropical forests , with several lagoons where you can take a dip.
6. Providencia Island (Colombia)
Very recently, Colombia has ‘opened up to the world’ as a natural destination par excellence, due to the high quality of its Caribbean beaches. On the island of Providencia you will find one of the best options for swimming in open water in the world, as well as for diving.
Sheltered by coves and with almost no waves, the waters are warm, crystal clear, clean and… perfect for not leaving them all day.
7. Caleta de Fuste (Spain)
Another of the most recommended beaches for swimming without problems. With its golden sand, its crystalline waters and almost no waves, many families choose Caleta de Fuste, in Fuerteventura —cover image—, for their vacations.
8. Angra dos Reis (Brazil)
This port city is famous for its nature and leisurely life. In total, in the municipality of the same name there are 365 islands, where you will undoubtedly find your place to swim in open waters, almost deserted and calm.
When you get out of the water, you will step on its soft sand, you will be able to see native fauna and you will not want to swim anywhere else in the world.
More places to swim in open water? Only in Spain can you choose to go to Playa Blanca in Lanzarote, Playa de Malkorbe in Getaria , Playa Palo in Málaga, Cala Vadella in Ibiza, Playa de los Muertos in AlmerÃa, Playa de Poo in Llanes or Cala Algaiarens in Menorca.
