These 7 Natural Pools are the World's Best-Kept Secrets

Giola Giola is a naturally occurring giant rock pool perched on the coast of Thasos Island, Greece, and referred to by locals as Afrodite's Tear. Legend has it that Zeus created the pool for his mistress Afrodite and shaped it like an eye so he could watch over her. Insider tip: The Giola rock pool is very secluded and requires off-road driving. Hire a vehicle that can handle the bumpy dirt tracks, and pack enough water to last you the day. Photo courtesy of When on Earth #greece #swimming #travel #naturalpools

To Sua Ocean Trench Dubbed by some as the "most magical swimming pool in the world," To Sua Ocean Trench is a site that has to be seen to be believed. The grotto is located in Lotofaga village, on Upolu island in Samoa. The awe-inspiring 98-foot hole formed when volcanoes erupted on the island, causing a huge natural crater with a labyrinth of underground pools leading to the South Pacific Ocean. Insider tip: While the azure grotto might seem tranquil, changing tides can cause big waves and a strong current inside the trench. Talk to locals to gauge the tide on the day of your visit, and climb down the teetering ladder with care. Photo by Anthony Britton #samoa #swimming #travel #naturalpools

These 7 Natural Pools are the World's Best-Kept Secrets Photo courtesy of Puerto Vallarta Tourism #mexico #swimming #travel #naturalpools

Hidden Beach It's almost a scene from a fictional Alex Garland novel: 22 nautical miles from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, sits a pristine secret beach, concealed beneath ground level in a tiny crater. To reach Hidden Beach, also known as Playa del Amor, travelers must swim through a nearly 40-foot tunnel, which only has about six feet of space between the water and overhead rock. Insider tip: The beach is sometimes closed due to a government research project, so check with boat operators before booking a trip to Marietas Islands. Photo courtesy of Marieta Islands Tourism #mexico #swimming #travel #naturalpools

Hierve el Agua Oaxaca's petrified mineral waterfalls look like tumbling white water frozen in time. The stunning phenomenon has formed thanks to calcium-rich water, which drips down the mountain and through underground caves. While much of the waterfall-like formation is an optical illusion, travelers can bathe in the warm thermal pools at the top of the cliff. Insider tip: Hierve el Agua can get crowded during the day in high season, so opt to hire a driver and head to the attraction in the morning to have the stunning scenery to yourself. Photo by Arturo Barreda Westphal #oaxaca #swimming #travel #naturalpools

Kravica Croatia's Krka and Plitvice National Park waterfalls are common knowledge among travelers, but we predict this secluded oasis in Bosnia could be the next big thing. Kravica can only be reached by car and is hidden away among poplar and fig trees. The startlingly clear emerald water comes from the Trebižat river, which spills forth over lichen and moss in a spectacle of beauty. Be sure to explore behind the waterfalls—many conceal hidden caves. Insider tip: Pack reef shoes if you intend on climbing over the rock formations or exploring the shallows. Wet moss makes the seemingly steady rocks more slippery than they appear. Photo by Anwar Nillufary #croatia #swimming #travel #naturalpools

Havasu Falls Concealed in the depths of Arizona's Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls is a must-visit for travelers who love a challenge. The water is a vivid turquoise color thanks to a high concentration of calcium carbonate, which also causes natural travertine pools and dams for weary hikers to bathe in. There is one catch: To reach the stunning falls, you must traverse a 10-mile track each way. Insider tip: Apply for a permit to enter the Havasupai Indian Reservation before planning your trip and be sure to wear hiking boots—your flimsy gym shoes won't cut it on the rocky terrain. Photo by Michele Falzone #havasu #grandcanyon #swimming #travel #naturalpools