Want to cool off this summer without leaving the Paris region? Paris and the surrounding area are full of perfect spots for a swim, far from the traditional beaches. Whether you're looking for wide open spaces, water parks or outdoor pools, there's something for everyone. Discover the best spots for swimming and sunbathing just a stone's throw from the capital. From leisure islands to urban ponds and eco-friendly pools, take a look at our selection of ten must-see places to cool off this summer. Get your swimsuits ready and follow the guide! Want to get away from it all? Discover the 13 best walks around Paris!
1- Île de Loisirs de Bois-le-Roi
Located just 60 km south-east of Paris, the Île de Loisirs de Bois-le-Roi is a haven of peace for nature lovers and swimmers. Take advantage of its large lake to refresh yourself while admiring the lush green surroundings. As well as swimming, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as canoeing, sailing and beach volleyball, perfect for a fun-filled day out with family or friends. Picnic areas and children's playgrounds complete the offer for an ideal summer getaway. Don't forget your parasol and sunscreen, and get ready for a day of outdoor fun and relaxation.
2- Île de Loisirs de Cergy-Pontoise
Just 30 km northwest of Paris, the Île de Loisirs de Cergy-Pontoise is the ideal place for a family day out. Take a dip in one of the many ponds, surrounded by palm trees and straw huts, and relax on over 5,000 square metres of fine sand. If you're a thrill-seeker, try out the 150-metre waterslide or take part in water activities such as kayaking and paddle boarding. The vast green spaces invite you to take a stroll or enjoy a picnic, while children can have fun in the play areas. Bring your swimsuit and enjoy an unforgettable day in the heart of nature.
3- Île de Loisirs de Jablines-Annet
The Île de Loisirs de Jablines-Annet, located 40 km east of Paris, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and swimmers. Plunge into the crystal-clear waters of its large, supervised lake and enjoy a wide range of water sports, including pedal-boating, kayaking and sailing. The vast green spaces are perfect for a family picnic, while children can have fun on the beach volleyball courts or in the playgrounds. With its numerous hiking trails and fitness trails, this leisure park offers a complete escape into the heart of nature. Pack your bags and come and spend an unforgettable day in this idyllic setting.
4- Île de Loisirs de Vaires-Torcy
Just 30 minutes from Paris, the Île de Loisirs de Vaires-Torcy awaits you for a day of adventure and relaxation. With its immense 2 km-long lake, you can indulge in water sports such as canoeing, kayaking and sailing. Want to relax? Take advantage of the landscaped beach and soak up the sun in complete tranquillity. For the more active, there are tennis courts, squash courts and a golf course. Children are also catered for, with playgrounds and green spaces where they can run around freely. Pack a picnic and enjoy a memorable day in this green and dynamic setting. See also our 17 ideas for outings less than 1 hour away by public transport!
5- L'Isle-Adam beach
Located just 30 km north of Paris, Plage de L'Isle-Adam is France's largest river beach, offering an idyllic setting for a relaxing day out. Take advantage of its vast expanse of fine sand and supervised waters for safe swimming. The many activities available, such as pedalos, mini-golf and beach volleyball courts, will delight young and old alike. Picnic areas and children's playgrounds add a friendly dimension to your outing. Pack your picnic basket, take along your parasol and let yourself be seduced by this haven of peace in the heart of nature.
6- Ponds of Holland
Located around 55 km from Paris,the Étangs de Hollande are an ideal destination for a nature getaway. Nestled in the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse nature park, these man-made ponds offer a peaceful setting perfect for swimming. Their historical origins, linked to the supply of water to the fountains of the Château de Versailles, add a royal touch to your visit. Relax on the beaches or take a refreshing dip in the clear waters. What's more, activities such as hiking and picnicking allow you to extend your day in the great outdoors.
7- Meaux beach
Meaux Plage, just 54 km from Paris, is the perfect place for a summer getaway. Imagine lounging on fine sand, beside the emerald waters of the Marne. This natural site offers plenty of activities for the whole family: mini-golf, trampoline, and even electric boats for a ride on the water. La guinguette du Capitaine, with its feet in the water, is the ideal place to enjoy a meal or a drink in complete tranquillity. Accessible and well laid out, Meaux Plage combines relaxation and entertainment, making your day an unforgettable experience.
8- Étangs de Cergy-Pontoise
The Étangs de Cergy-Pontoise, located around 30 km from Paris, offer a cool oasis for the whole family. Dive into these ponds for a refreshing swim surrounded by nature. On-site facilities allow you to enjoy a wide range of activities, including paddling, canoeing and rowing. For the more adventurous, there's the Aquapark, an inflatable course on the water. As well as swimming, you can cycle or walk around the ponds, making this the perfect destination for a full day of relaxation and outdoor fun.
9- Big Jump at Saint-Maur-des-Fossés
The Big Jump in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés is a unique and festive event that takes place every year at the beginning of July. The event brings together hundreds of participants to demand the right to swim in the Marne and raise awareness of water quality. For one day, you can jump into the river, take part in creative workshops and enjoy the friendly atmosphere in the Beach garden. This European event is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature while having fun with family and friends. If you're bored in the Paris region, you'll love our selection of 10 music festivals in and around Pairs!
10- Piscine des Murs à Pêches in Montreuil
The Piscine des Murs à Pêches in Montreuil is a treasure trove for swimmers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located on the outskirts of Paris, this pool features a large outdoor pool perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. Children love the waterslides and play areas, while adults can relax in the lush green surroundings. In addition to the pleasures of swimming, the pool has ample space for picnics, making this an ideal outing for a family day out. So pack your swimsuit and come and enjoy this haven of peace and fun in Montreuill.
Not sure what to do in the Paris region? We recommend our must-sees for 3 days in Paris or a weekend in Paris!
Take a look at our train ticket prices and book now!
Here's a selection of trendy Paris activities to give you some ideas:
Which river to swim in around Paris?
- The Big Jump in Saint-Maur-des-Fossés: This annual event takes place at the beginning of July and allows you to swim in the Marne River. Its aim is to promote water quality and environmental protection. A festive and committed day with jumps in the river, creative workshops and a convivial atmosphere in the Beach garden .
- The Epte: Located on the border between Île-de-France and Normandy, the Epte is an ideal river for a swim in the heart of nature. Its unspoilt banks offer a serene setting for swimming and observing local wildlife, such as dragonflies and coypu.
- The Seine at the Bois-le-Roi leisure island: Close to Fontainebleau, the Bois-le-Roi leisure island offers a variety of aquatic activities, including swimming, in a magnificent natural setting. It's the perfect place to combine relaxation and water sports with family or friends.
Which lake to discover 2 hours from Paris?
- Lac de la Forêt d'Orient Located around 2 hours from Paris, Lac de la Forêt d'Orient is an ideal destination for a nature getaway. This lake, in the heart of the Forêt d'Orient Regional Nature Park, offers landscaped beaches, water sports such as sailing and canoeing, and numerous hiking trails around the lake. Perfect for a relaxing day out or a long weekend away, it's the perfect place to recharge your batteries in the heart of nature, yet easily accessible by car from Paris.
- Lac d'Enghien-les-Bains Around 30 minutes from Paris, Lac d'Enghien-les-Bains is a closer alternative for a quick getaway. This urban lake offers water sports, waterside walks and a casino for those looking for a little more entertainment.
