12 Hidden Waterfalls Around the World You Can Swim Under

Waterfalls have long captivated travelers, but the real magic lies in those off-the-radar gems—secluded cascades where you can immerse yourself in pristine, untouched waters. These secret waterfalls require a sense of adventure, leading you through dense jungles, rugged canyons, and hidden trails to discover nature at its most breathtaking. Whether tucked away in remote islands, hidden in deep forests, or cascading into crystal-clear pools beneath towering cliffs, these waterfalls offer the ultimate reward: the chance to swim beneath their thundering veil, feeling the rush of water and the serenity of isolation. If you crave an escape from crowded tourist spots and seek the thrill of discovering nature’s best-kept secrets, this list is for you. Here are 12 hidden waterfalls around the world where you can take a swim—places where adventure meets tranquility, and the sound of rushing water becomes the soundtrack of an unforgettable experience.

1. Kuang Si Falls, Laos

Hidden in the lush jungles of Laos, Kuang Si Falls is a multi-tiered cascade flowing into turquoise pools surrounded by limestone cliffs and tropical greenery. The main waterfall plunges nearly 200 feet, but its series of smaller cascades and serene natural pools are perfect for swimming. Despite being one of Laos’ most beautiful spots, it remains surprisingly secluded, especially if you visit early in the morning. To reach Kuang Si, you'll trek through dense jungle, crossing wooden bridges and following winding paths before being rewarded with its surreal blue waters. The high calcium content in the rock formations gives the pools their striking color, making it feel like you've stepped into a dream. Whether you swim beneath the main cascade or relax in one of the smaller pools, Kuang Si Falls offers a magical experience that feels worlds away from civilization. Why It’s Special: Vibrant blue pools, multiple levels of cascades, and a hidden jungle location.

2. Tavoro Falls, Fiji

Deep within Bouma National Heritage Park on the island of Taveuni, Tavoro Falls is a trio of waterfalls tucked inside the Fijian rainforest. The first is an easily accessible 78-foot waterfall that crashes into a deep, swimmable pool. But the real adventure begins when you hike deeper into the jungle to discover the second and third falls, each more secluded and serene than the last. With its dramatic jungle setting and refreshing waters, swimming beneath Tavoro Falls feels like stepping into a prehistoric paradise. As you float in the cool pools, exotic birds call from the canopy above, and the sun filters through the trees, casting golden light on the cascading water. Why It’s Special: A series of three stunning jungle waterfalls, each with its own secret swimming spot.

3. Kitekite Falls, New Zealand

Tucked away in the Waitākere Ranges near Auckland, Kitekite Falls is a six-tiered waterfall that tumbles into an emerald pool perfect for swimming. Surrounded by thick native forest and towering cliffs, this hidden treasure is reached via a scenic 45-minute hike through lush greenery and moss-covered rocks. For the bold, a short scramble takes you to the upper pools, where you can swim above the main waterfall and gaze down at the stunning valley below. Unlike some waterfalls where the current can be too strong for swimming, Kitekite Falls offers a peaceful and safe spot to float beneath its cascading waters. Why It’s Special: Multi-tiered waterfall with a hidden upper pool for the ultimate secluded swim.

4. Blue Hole, Jamaica

Tucked in the hills of Ocho Rios, Blue Hole is one of Jamaica’s best-kept secrets. Unlike the crowded Dunn’s River Falls, Blue Hole remains relatively undiscovered, offering deep sapphire-colored pools and a series of cascading waterfalls where you can jump, swim, and explore caves. Adventurous swimmers can leap from limestone ledges into the deep blue pools, swim behind waterfalls, and explore small rock tunnels hidden behind the rushing water. The mineral-rich water is incredibly clear and vibrant, making it one of the most picturesque waterfall swimming spots in the Caribbean. Why It’s Special: Secret jungle setting, deep turquoise pools, and natural jumping ledges.

5. Gaping Gill, England

One of England’s most unique waterfalls, Gaping Gill is hidden inside an enormous underground cave in the Yorkshire Dales. The waterfall plunges over 300 feet from the surface into the cavern below, creating an otherworldly swimming experience. Reaching it requires an adventurous descent through a narrow cave system, but once inside, you're met with the eerie beauty of an underground waterfall illuminated by beams of sunlight filtering through the rock. The water is cold and crystal-clear, making it an exhilarating swim like no other. Why It’s Special: A subterranean waterfall hidden in an underground cave.

6. Sombrio Beach Waterfall, Canada

Located along British Columbia’s Juan de Fuca Trail, Sombrio Beach hides a secret waterfall inside a narrow canyon. Unlike traditional waterfalls, this one is concealed within moss-covered rock walls, with sunlight trickling through the mist. A short trek through the forest and a careful scramble over smooth stones will lead you to this ethereal, cave-like waterfall. The water cascades down from above into a waist-deep pool, inviting you to wade beneath its veil. Why It’s Special: A hidden waterfall inside a canyon, tucked along a wild Pacific coastline.

7. La Fortuna Waterfall, Costa Rica

At the base of Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall crashes down nearly 250 feet into a deep pool surrounded by tropical rainforest. This jungle paradise is accessed via a steep trail through vibrant flora, rewarding visitors with a breathtaking swimming hole. The force of the waterfall creates a misty cloud above the pool, and the surrounding rock formations add to the feeling of being in a lost world. The water is cool and rejuvenating, making it a perfect spot for a post-hike dip. Why It’s Special: A dramatic rainforest waterfall framed by volcanic landscapes.

8. Tibumana Waterfall, Bali

Bali is home to many famous waterfalls, but Tibumana Waterfall remains a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. Nestled within a lush tropical gorge, this single-stream waterfall spills into a serene, swimmable pool. Surrounded by jungle cliffs and thick ferns, Tibumana is almost always empty, making it one of Bali’s best hidden gems. The water is cool and calm, perfect for swimming under the falls without the intense currents found at other spots. Why It’s Special: A secluded waterfall framed by lush jungle cliffs, perfect for swimming.

9. Havasu Falls, Arizona, USA

Deep within the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls is a surreal oasis of turquoise water cascading over red rock cliffs. The mineral-rich waters give the falls their electric blue hue, creating an almost otherworldly swimming experience. Reaching Havasu Falls requires a 10-mile hike, making it one of the most rewarding hidden waterfalls for those willing to make the journey. The pools beneath the falls are calm, warm, and perfect for floating, offering a surreal escape from the desert heat. Why It’s Special: A bright blue desert oasis hidden in the Grand Canyon.

10. Kawasan Falls, Philippines

Hidden deep within the lush jungles of Cebu, Kawasan Falls is a series of turquoise waterfalls flowing through limestone cliffs, creating natural pools that feel like a secret paradise. The most famous of the falls features a 40-foot cascade, pouring into a wide, deep pool that’s perfect for swimming. For the more adventurous, Kawasan Falls is also part of a famous canyoneering route, where thrill-seekers jump from cliffs, slide down waterfalls, and swim through the narrow canyon. While many tourists visit the lower falls, those who trek further upstream will find more secluded pools where they can float beneath smaller cascades in total tranquility. Why It’s Special: Vibrant turquoise water, jungle surroundings, and hidden pools for both swimming and adventure.

11. Nauyaca Waterfalls, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is waterfall heaven, but Nauyaca Falls is one of its best-kept secrets. Tucked inside the rainforest near Dominical, this two-tiered waterfall crashes over massive cliffs, with the lower tier creating a natural swimming hole surrounded by lush greenery. Reaching Nauyaca requires either a steep jungle hike or a scenic horseback ride, adding to the adventure. The lower pool is deep and perfect for swimming, while bold visitors can climb the rocks and jump from various heights into the refreshing water. With mist filling the air and the sound of cascading water echoing through the jungle, it’s a true tropical escape. Why It’s Special: A two-tiered jungle waterfall with cliff-jumping spots and a secret swimming pool.

12. Fairy Pools, Scotland

Nestled in the Isle of Skye’s rugged landscapes, the Fairy Pools are a series of crystal-clear waterfalls cascading through dark volcanic rock, forming natural swimming holes. Unlike the tropical waterfalls on this list, these pools are icy cold but incredibly refreshing, offering a unique wild swimming experience. A hike through the Scottish Highlands leads you to this magical spot, where each pool is connected by mini waterfalls, creating a natural staircase of cascades. The water is so clear that you can see every stone beneath, and swimming here feels like entering a mythical, untouched world. Why It’s Special: A wild swimming paradise with ice-cold, crystal-clear waters in a dramatic Scottish setting.

Dive Into Hidden Paradise

From jungle cascades in Fiji to underground falls in England, these 12 hidden waterfalls prove that nature’s best swimming spots are often tucked away in the most unexpected places. Whether you’re trekking through rainforests, scrambling through caves, or hiking down desert canyons, each of these waterfalls offers a reward like no other—a secluded paradise where you can swim beneath the falling water, surrounded by nature at its purest. So, pack your sense of adventure and go beyond the tourist traps. The world’s most magical waterfalls are waiting—you just have to find them.