A Deep Dive into Portland’s 24 Best Swimming Spots + Beaches

Welcome, water enthusiasts and heat-fleeing Portlanders seeking refreshing swimming spots! If you’ve ever felt like you’re melting faster than a vegan ice cream cone on a hot summer day, take heart. Portland’s got a smorgasbord of such spots that’ll make you wonder if you’ve somehow stumbled into Atlantis.

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From rugged river hangouts to indoor neighborhood pools, we’re about to take a plunge into the wet and wild world of Portland’s best places to swim. Grab your towel, slather on that sunscreen (yes, even you, you perfectly bronzed Greek god), and let’s dive in!

Urban Oases: Swimming in the City

(Without Getting Arrested)

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Kevin J. Duckworth Memorial Dock

The Downtown Plunge

Named after a Portland Trail Blazers legend, this dock offers a unique urban swimming experience. It’s perfect for those who like their nature with a heavy dose of concrete jungle. Highlights include:

• A dock that’s great for jumping into the Willamette (after checking the water quality, of course)
• great Views of the river, the cityscape, and Portland’s skyline, because nothing says “wilderness” like skyscrapers
• The thrill of swimming in a river that was once considered unswimmable (we’ve come a long way, baby!)
• It’s situated on the Willamette River downtown, just south of the Steel Bridge and is most easily accessible by bike.

Remember: Fish are friends, not food. And they were here first, so play nice.

Tom McCall Bowl

You couldn’t find a better spot in the heart of any city to don your swimsuit and jump into some riverine ecstasy than this beach. Less a pseudo seaside retreat and more an energetic urban hangout, this beach isn’t for the faint-hearted sunbather—shade is scarce until the city’s skyline stretches out its evening shadows.

Situated between the Hawthorne Bridge and the RiverPlace Hotel, this spot is just a step from downtown’s busy business district, making it one of Portland’s most accessible beaches. It’s the kind of place where you can take a dip, toss a ball for your dog, and grab a bite to eat—all within the same hour.

Leave your car behind and get your daily steps or cycling footage in as you saunter down the grassy curving slope to this riverside patch at its edge.

The shore is a mix of sand, gravel, and some sneaky sharp rocks lurking beneath the surface, making river shoes an essential. Just don’t forget to “unrock” your river shoes before heading home.

Poet’s Beach

Where Literature Meets Lido

Located on the west side of the Willamette River downtown,  just south of the Hawthorne Bridge in South Waterfront Park, this sandy-shored beach is the perfect spot for those who like their swims and sunbathing with a side of culture.

Features include:

• A sandy beach in the heart of the city, because who needs the coast?
• Poems etched into the rocks, providing entertainment for those moments when you forget your waterproof Kindle.
• Views of Portland’s bridges, reminding you that you’re still in civilization (for better or worse).

Reached by a winding downward path lined with flowers and shrubs, the area is a well-maintained spot to enjoy a rare urban swimming experience.

Cathedral Park Beach and Dock

Of all the swimming spots on the Willamette River, the newly improved swimming beach and brand new dock at Cathedral Park have perhaps the most spectacular sight to look up at while doing your best back crawl.

That’s because it’s located right underneath the coppery-green St. Johns Bridge, which rises 400 feet overhead. The greenery of Forest Park across the river only adds to the peaceful quality of the setting.

Believed to have been a Lewis and Clark Expedition camping spot, the beach was recently cleared by volunteers of massive amounts of concrete, rock and debris in order to liberate the sand and pepples beneath.

Caution: only advanced swimmers should venture by self-propulsion from the dock, due to the water depth there.

Sellwood Riverfront Park

Just north of the Sellwood Bridge, the beach here is long and sandy. You can sun and dive into the river from the dock or mosey downstream and stake out a spot on the beach, catching wide-open views of downtown Portland in the distance.

Willamette Park

The Riverside Retreat

Situated along the scenic Willamette River, Willamette Park is where you go to cool off without straying too far from the city. This park offers:

• A boat ramp and dock for easy access to the river – perfect for swimmers, kayakers, and paddleboarders
• Expansive grassy areas ideal for picnics, sunbathing, or just lounging with a book
• Paved paths for a leisurely stroll along the river, where you can watch the boats and enjoy the views of the riverbanks

Pro tip: Keep an eye out for the occasional wildlife that likes to hang out near the water – just remember, they were here first!

George Rogers Park

The Suburban Oasis

Located just a short drive from downtown Portland, George Rogers Park in Lake Oswego offers a serene escape with a splash of suburban charm. This park features:

• A picturesque swimming beach along the Willamette River, perfect for families. looking to enjoy a day by the water.
• A historic iron furnace that adds a touch of local history to your day out.
• Picnic tables and BBQ areas where you can grill up a feast after a refreshing swim.

Remember: The park gets busy on weekends, so arrive early to claim your spot on the sand!

Broughton Beach Park

Situated on the Columbia River, Broughton Beach Park offers a sandy beach ideal for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing. The park’s expansive layout provides plenty of space for visitors to enjoy the water.

Other Nearby Oregon Swimming Holes

Where Nature Meets Your Need to Cool Off

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 Glenn Otto Community Park

The Family-Friendly River Retreat

Situated on the Sandy River, Glenn Otto Park is the perfect spot for those who like their water adventures a little less “extreme” and a little more “extreme relaxation.” Amenities include:

• Sandy beaches that are great for building sandcastles or burying dad up to his neck.
• Gentle river waters perfect for floating, swimming, or pretending you’re a very large salmon.
• Picnic areas for when you inevitably get hungry enough to eat your own arm.

Pro tip: The river rocks can be slippery.

Moulton Falls

The Waterfall Wonderland

Hidden away on the Lewis River, Moulton Falls is Mother Nature’s version of a water park, minus the overpriced snacks and questionable hygiene. This scenic spot offers:

• A picturesque waterfall that’s Instagram gold (just try not to drop your phone).
• Flat rocks perfect for sunbathing or impersonating a very pale starfish.
• Both calm and swift-moving waters, catering to your mood swings.

Fun fact: The rocks here are millions of years old, making them the perfect listeners for all your existential crises.

Rooster Rock State Park

Where the Columbia River Meets Birthday Suits

Rooster Rock State Park offers a wide sandy beach on the Columbia River and a clothing-optional area, because nothing says “freedom” like the possibility of sunburn in unusual places.

Features include:

• A vast sandy beach perfect for all your sand-related activities.
• Gorgeous views of the Columbia River Gorge (and potentially your fellow beachgoers).
• Hiking trails for when you need a break from all that relaxing.

Remember: In the clothing-optional area, staring is impolite, and sand gets everywhere. Yes, everywhere.

High Rocks Park

The Adrenaline Junkie’s Wet Dream

Located on the Clackamas River, High Rocks Park is the place where gravity and common sense come to test their relationship. Known for its cliff jumping opportunities, it’s perfect for those who like their swimming with a side of heart palpitations. Features include:

• Cliffs of varying heights, from “mildly terrifying” to “what was I thinking?”
• Crystal clear waters that are refreshing enough to make you forget you just cheated death.
• Lifeguards on duty, because even daredevils need a safety net.

Remember: The walk of shame back up the cliff after chickening out is a rite of passage. Embrace it.

Wintler Community Park

Wintler Community Park, located across the river in Vancouver, offers a tranquil beach experience with stunning views of the Columbia River. This park boasts:

• A sandy beach that’s perfect for a lazy day of sunbathing and swimming
• Picnic areas shaded by tall trees, making it an ideal spot for a summer gathering
• Access to walking and biking trails that connect to other nearby parks along the river

Fun fact: Wintler Park is a great spot for watching the sunset over the river – don’t forget your camera!

Cottonwood Beach

The Natural Beauty Spot

Tucked away in Washougal, Cottonwood Beach offers a serene escape with its wide, sandy shores and peaceful river setting. This beach is perfect for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle:

• A long stretch of sandy beach that’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles.
• Views of the Columbia River that are sure to relax and inspire.
• Nearby trails for a scenic walk through the woods before or after your swim.

Pro tip: The beach is spacious, so it’s a great spot to avoid the crowds and enjoy some solitude.

Frenchman’s Bar

This is not a place where an immigrant from Paris serves alcoholic beverages, but a huge county park in Vancouver, Washington on the other side of the Columbia River from Sauvie Island.

Cargo ships and barges going to and from the Port of Vancouver make their ways or park for hours, but the beach is miles long and the sun lingers on it all the way until sundown, making it ideal for swimming and lazing an entire afternoon and early evening in nature —  unlike on Sauvie Island, where the shade of the trees darken the beaches as early as 5pm.

Sauvie Island

On Sauvie Island you can sun and bathe anywhere on its eastern shore’s miles-long sandy beaches. Avoid the gas-fumes spewing car if you’re gungho enough, by combining your beach hang with a bike ride along the island.

Willow Bar Beach

With its expansive sandy stretches, lovely views of the Columbia River, and a surprisingly low number of visitors, Willow Bar Beach stands out as Portland’s premier beach spot.

Although it’s a favorite among anglers, it remains less crowded compared to other Sauvie beaches, partly due to its parking area being tucked away at the end of a dirt path off Reeder Road. While shade is scarce, the extended shoreline and shallow waters make it ideal for wading.

Walton Beach

As Sauvie Island’s most frequented beach, Walton Beach is situated at the northern terminus of Reeder Road. On sunny weekend afternoons, securing a parking spot can be a challenge. Nevertheless, its popularity is well-earned: the sandy, tranquil banks of the Columbia River here boast delightful shallow areas perfect for wading.

Collins Beach

Located just upstream from Walton Beach, the ever-popular Collins Beach offers a similar experience in terms of scenery and crowd size, with one notable difference: it’s clothing-optional. Whether or not that’s your preference, Collins Beach earns points for its distinctive character and serves as a beautiful spot to soak up the sun—regardless of attire.

Outdoor pools

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Peninsula Park

The Urban Splash Zone

North of the Peninsula Park Rose Garden, Peninsula Park’s pool is where the city’s heat meets its match.

The was born out of necessity when the Willamette River’s bath houses were shut down due to pollution woes. But it’s not just humans who’ve enjoyed a splash here—Humboldt penguins once called it their temporary home!

Back in 1957, these dapper Antarctic guests arrived ahead of schedule for their Washington Park Zoo debut, only to find their new digs unfinished. The solution? A surprise stay at Peninsula Pool, where they swam circles around the locals.

Fast forward to 1998, and the pool deck got a vibrant makeover with two ceramic tile murals by George Johanson. These eye-catching artworks capture the joyful chaos of beach and pool life.

In addition to that splash of color, this storied swim spot offers:

• A large main pool that’s perfect for both serious swimmers and casual splashers.
• Shaded picnic areas ideal for post-swim sandwiches and avoiding a sunburn in the shape of a sandwich.
• A kiddie pool that guarantees more “aww” moments than your Instagram feed.

Pro tip: Get there early to snag a good spot – the prime poolside real estate goes fast!

Grant Pool

Swimming at Grant High School’s outdoor pool is like taking a dip into Portland’s history. This pool, open during the summer months, offers:

• A large, rectangular pool that’s perfect for lap swimming, water polo, or just floating like you’re in a retro movie scene
• Plenty of deck space for sunbathing and working on that tan (with sunscreen, of course)
• A chill, community vibe where everyone knows the water’s fine – and so is the company

Remember: The lifeguards here might just be your neighbor’s kid, so be on your best behavior.

Sellwood Pool

 

The Family-Favorite Watering Hole

Located in the charming Sellwood neighborhood, this pool is a haven for families looking to cool off and create some summer memories. Sellwood Pool features:

• A historic, old-fashioned feel with modern updates – think vintage charm meets chlorinated bliss
• A shallow end perfect for wading, splashing, and supervising tiny swimmers
• Plenty of space to spread out on the grass with a blanket, a good book, and some snacks

Fun fact: This pool has been around since 1910, making it a piece of Portland’s aquatic history.

Indoor Pools

Where “Seasonal Affective Disorder” Meets Its Waterloo

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East Portland Community Center

The Vortex of Fun

Ever wanted to feel like you’re being flushed down a giant’s toilet, but in a fun way? The East Portland Community Center’s vortex pool has got you covered! This aquatic wonderland features:

• A shark slide that’s less “Jaws” and more “Finding Nemo”
• A lazy river for when you want to channel your inner sloth
• A lap pool for the Michael Phelps wannabes
• A warm water pool that’s like a bathtub, but socially acceptable to share with strangers

Pro tip: The hot tub is perfect for pretending you’re human soup.

Mt. Scott Community Center

The Splash Palace

If Willy Wonka designed a pool, it might look something like Mt. Scott. With more colors than a tie-dye festival and water features that’ll make you question gravity, this pool is a hit with kids and adults alike. Features include:

• A lazy river that’s about as lazy as a caffeinated squirrel
• A slide that’ll have you screaming “weeeee!” (dignity optional)
• Interactive water play structures that are basically giant, wet Legos.

 

Southwest Community Center

The Family-Friendly Flood Zone

Designed with families in mind, this pool is perfect for those who want to swim with their kids without feeling like they’re in an aquatic version of “Lord of the Flies.” Highlights include:

• A zero-depth entry pool, because sometimes walking into water is just too much effort
• Interactive water play features that are like a car wash for humans
• Lap lanes for adults who need to escape… I mean, exercise
• Diving boards for those who enjoy the feeling of momentary flight followed by a soggy landing

Remember: Cannonballs are a sacred art form here. Practice your technique accordingly.

Others

Portland’s swim spots are neighborhood treasures, and there are always more to discover. From the quiet neighborhood pools where you can enjoy some peace and quiet, to the bustling public pools with slides and diving boards that attract thrill-seekers, there’s something for everyone. Have a favorite spot that’s not listed here? Dive in and let the city’s aquatic world surprise you.

Seasonal Swimming

Because Oregon Weather is Bipolar

 Spring (March-May)

The Awakening

As Portland shakes off its winter slumber, swimming options start to bloom like the city’s famous roses:

• Indoor pools become hubs of activity as people remember what it’s like to move their bodies.
• Outdoor pools begin to shake off their winter covers, much like bears emerging from hibernation.
• Brave souls (read: slightly unhinged individuals) might start testing the waters of natural swimming holes.

Pro tip: If you see your breath while changing into your swimsuit, maybe wait a few more weeks.

Summer (June-August)

Peak Splash Season

Summer in Portland is like a beautiful, fleeting romance. Blink, and you might miss it. Make the most of it with:

• All swimming holes operating at full capacity, like a watery version of rush hour
• Extended hours at outdoor pools, because why should the fun stop just because the sun decided to call it a day?
• Natural swimming holes becoming more popular than avocado toast at a millennial brunch

Remember: Arrival times at popular spots are like a game of aquatic musical chairs. The early bird gets the prime sunbathing rock.

Fall (September-November)

The Long Goodbye

As leaves start to turn, Portland’s swimming scene begins its annual swan song:

• Outdoor pools close up shop, usually around Labor Day, in a cruel reminder that all good things must come to an end
• Natural swimming holes become the domain of the dedicated (or slightly mad)
• Indoor pools see an influx of swimmers not quite ready to admit that summer’s over

Winter (December-February)

The Polar Bear Club’s Time to Shine

Winter swimming in Portland is for the brave, the foolhardy, and those with excellent wetsuits:

• Indoor pools become steamy oases in a sea of gray skies and rain
• The occasional sunny winter day might tempt the truly adventurous to dip a toe in natural waters
• Winter swimming at spots like Broughton Beach becomes a badge of honor (or a sign of questionable decision-making skills)

Remember: If you have to break ice to enter the water, maybe reconsider your life choices.

Swimming Safety

Because We Want You Back Next Season

1. Always check water conditions before diving in. The Willamette isn’t always “filthy,” but it’s not always a crystal-clear mountain spring either.

2. Be aware of underwater hazards. That log might look like a fun thing to stand on, but it could also be nature’s version of a treadmill.

3. Never swim alone, especially in open water. Buddy system isn’t just for kindergarten field trips.

4. Respect posted signs and lifeguard instructions. They’re not just there for decoration (although some lifeguards do look quite decorative).

5. Use appropriate sun protection. “Lobster” is a great look for seafood, not so much for humans.

6. Stay hydrated. Yes, you’re surrounded by water. No, that doesn’t mean you’re absorbing it through osmosis.

Eco-Friendly Swimming

1. Leave No Trace (Except Your Awesome Vibes)

2. Use reef-safe sunscreen. The fish don’t need your SPF 50, no matter how pale they look.

3. Pack out all trash. The “leave it for the next person” system doesn’t work when that next person is a raccoon.

4. Avoid disturbing wildlife. That includes not trying to ride the geese, no matter how tempting it may be.

5. Use public transportation or bike to swimming spots when possible. Your car doesn’t need to work on its tan.

Beyond Swimming

Other Ways to Get Wet and Wild

1. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Like walking on water, but with more core engagement and occasional faceplants.

2. Kayaking: Perfect for those who like their water adventures with a side of arm workout.

3. Whitewater Rafting: For when regular swimming just isn’t terrifying enough.

Local Swimming Communities and Events

Make a Splash in Portland Society

1. Join the Portland Triathlon Club: For those who think swimming is just the appetizer in a three-course meal of endurance sports.

2. Participate in the Portland Bridge Swim: An 11-mile swim under Portland’s bridges, because regular swimming is just too easy.

3. Check out the Human Access Project: Advocating for river access and reminding us that sometimes, humans and nature can play nice together.

Après-Swim

Refuel and Relax

After turning yourself into a prune, treat your taste buds to some local favorites:

– Kate’s Ice Cream (3713 N. Mississippi Avenue): Because nothing says “I just burned 500 calories swimming” like a quadruple scoop of seriously great plant-based & gluten-free Marionberry Cobbler and Orange Creamsicle ice cream.

– Mis Tacones (1670 NE Killingsworth St.): Outrageously delicious and filling vegan Mexican, perfect for when you’re so hungry you could eat a horse (but kind enough to settle for an icy mangonada and gigantic vegan la chimi burrito instead).

– Norah (3801 SE Belmont St.): volcano tempura noodle soup or coconut mushroom linguine that’ll make you wonder if you died mid-backstroke and went to flavor heaven.

 

Ready to Take the Plunge?

There you have it, folks – Portland’s swimming scene laid bare, much like the sunbathers at Rooster Rock. From chlorinated paradises to wild river retreats, the city’s got enough aquatic options to satisfy everyone from toddlers to triathletes.

So grab your swimsuit, pack a sense of adventure (and maybe some water shoes), and dive into the liquid wonderland that is Portland. Just remember: prune fingers are a badge of honor, seaweed is not a fashion accessory, and no matter how tempting it might be, the ducks do not want to race you.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a date with a lazy river and a waterproof copy of my favorite book. Swim on, Portland!  

Where to Stay

Portland Eco House

After a day of aquatic adventures, retreat to the Portland Eco House in the Alberta Arts District. It’s like Mother Nature and HGTV had a baby, and that baby grew up to run a guesthouse. Features include:

• Organic bedding that’s so comfy, you might forget to go swimming the next day.
• Eco-conscious amenities that’ll make you feel like Captain Planet.
• A secluded stone patio perfect for easing into an a post-swim drink and snack.
– A gas fire pit for drying off the old-fashioned way.

With its commitment to sustainability, beautiful decor, and prime location, Portland Eco House offers the perfect home base for your green adventures, where you know your stay supports eco-friendly lodging.