On those hot days, what better way to cool off than by visiting one of the affordable swimming spots near Guadalajara, surrounded by nature?
In this list, you’ll find affordable spots to take a dip, where you’ll pay no more than $150 pesos! Pay attention and plan your trip.
Plan your next getaway to one of these natural gems, just a few miles away!
One of the most popular destinations within Bosque de la Primavera is the hot springs that heat the waters of this river.
This hike is quite easy, so you can bring the whole family without any problems. Just look for a spot that isn’t too hot so you can swim.
The lush trees will provide the perfect shade for a picnic. Bring everything you need and don’t forget to clean up when you’re done.
Recommendations:
The water can reach temperatures of up to 80 degrees, so it’s best to stay a little away from the main current so you can get in without getting burned.
This spot tends to get quite crowded on weekends, so if you have the chance to visit Monday through Friday, take advantage of it.
Located in the Huentitán Canyon, these are natural pools of warm water that spring up alongside the mesquite trees.
You’ll swim with a spectacular view in waters that, according to locals, have healing properties— all for just $50 pesos.
You’ll also have the option to camp on-site and bring your own food and drinks, though snacks and soft drinks are available for purchase there.
To get there, you can take the entire Periférico Norte, as they’re located along the Barranca stretch between the neighborhoods of La Jalisco and Nuevo Israel.
Recommendations:
It’s recommended to arrive early, and keep in mind that you’ll need to hike for about half an hour on a moderately challenging trail to reach the natural pools.
Also keep in mind that if you’re not staying to camp, we recommend not returning to the city too late, for safety reasons.
El Encanto Spa
Although a little further away, Balneario El Encanto is perfect if you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere.
Here you’ll find refreshing drinks to beat the heat, a restaurant, tables, restrooms, and barbecue areas for rent—all for less than $100.
You’ll also have the option to camp on-site, taking all necessary precautions, because temperatures drop significantly at night.
Recommendations:
Keep in mind that to reach the swimming area, you’ll have to descend more than a hundred steps. There are no showers, and we recommend bringing your own toilet paper just in case.
Attention, nature lovers looking for a pet-friendly spot to take your furry friend along too!
The Huaxtla Waterfalls are located just an hour from Guadalajara, along the road to Tesistán.
This hike is recommended for people in good physical condition, as it is long (about an hour) and requires some effort.
The best part? It’s not a developed site, so you’ll get a 100% authentic experience with nature.
Here you can go hiking, camping, and, of course, swim in deep, cool waters. All completely free!
Recommendations:
Since it’s a 100% natural spot, we recommend arriving early to enjoy the outing without any hiccups.
Also, bringing everything you need with you is essential, since you probably won’t get good cell service. Don’t forget to take your trash with you! Let’s take care of these hidden gems.
Huilotán Ecological Park
A perfect nature reserve to recharge your batteries. Here you’ll be surrounded by nature in a beautiful setting.
You can spend a couple of hours exploring its trails, enjoying its waterfalls, and its natural pool.
They have a restaurant, camping area, shower area, restrooms, and even a temazcal.
Recommendations:
Contact them in advance to reserve your campsite through their social media.
Ask about the seasonal flora and fauna, because you can see everything from macaws to fireflies.
You cannot bring pets, loudspeakers, or glass items.
Another pet-friendly swimming spot where you can bring your furry friend for a dip.
Here you can swim in the three waterfalls, each very different from the other, while enjoying the view of the mountains.
The water is cool and deep. You can also camp and do some rappelling for less than $100 pesos.
Recommendations:
It is recommended to arrive early and avoid visiting during the rainy season, as the flow of the waterfalls intensifies and the pools often overflow.
If you’re not a strong swimmer, bring a life jacket. Don’t forget your food and drinks either, though the locals always have something to offer.
Keep in mind that this is a rustic, natural site, so bathroom facilities may be limited, and you likely won’t have cell service either.
Los Chorros de Tala is a natural spa in the municipality of Tala, approximately 45 minutes from Guadalajara.
It features a 15-meter waterfall, natural pools, swimming areas, a slide, and areas for picnicking and camping.
It offers facilities such as a restaurant, restrooms, showers, and cabins for lodging.
Recommendations:
Get there early, as it tends to get crowded on weekends, especially during the hot season.
Bring cash because many services within the spa don’t accept cards.
Pack water shoes or sneakers in your backpack, because the rocks near the waterfall can be slippery, and don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray.
It’s a private, managed area just an hour from Guadalajara, with plenty of amenities, including restrooms and showers.
Its main attraction is its clear-water river, with temperatures ranging from 15 °C to 23 °C and shallow areas (from 80 cm to 1.20 m), ideal for visiting with children.
In addition to the river, the site features: parking, a camping area, a fish pond (for viewing only), and a terrace with tables and chairs.
There are also additional activities: guided hiking and paintball.
