When the Queen City heats up, locals and visitors alike seek the best spots to cool off. Charlotte offers a diverse range of swimming destinations, from natural quarries and sandy lake beaches to luxurious rooftop pools and thrilling water parks. Whether you're looking for a serene swim or an action-packed day, here's your guide to the top swimming spots in and around Charlotte.

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Carrigan Farms Quarry

Location: 1261 Oakridge Farm Hwy, Mooresville, NC
Website: carriganfarms.com
Phone: 704-664-1450

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Just 30 minutes north of Charlotte, Carrigan Farms offers a unique open swim experience in a natural quarry. Surrounded by granite cliffs and lush greenery, it's a picturesque spot for swimming, cliff jumping, and rope swinging. Reservations are required, and life jackets are mandatory unless you pass a swim test.‍

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Hours: Seasonal; check website for open swim dates and times
Admission: Varies; reservations required
CLTBucketlist Recommends: Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy the serene morning ambiance.‍

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‍Why To Swim Here:

• Natural spring-fed quarry with clear waters
• Exciting activities like cliff jumping and rope swings
• Scenic surroundings perfect for a summer day

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Ramsey Creek Park – Lake Norman

Location: 18441 Nantz Rd, Cornelius, NC
Website: parkandrec.mecknc.gov
Phone: 980-314-1001

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Ramsey Creek Park boasts one of the few public beaches on Lake Norman. The sandy shoreline and designated swimming area make it a family-friendly destination. Amenities include picnic shelters, a playground, and walking trails. The beach is open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day.‍

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Hours: Seasonal; typically open Wed–Sun, noon–6 PM
Admission: Free; parking fees may apply
CLTBucketlist Recommends: Pack a picnic and enjoy a full day by the lake.‍

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Why To Swim Here:

• Sandy beach with lifeguard-supervised swimming area
• Proximity to Charlotte, making it a convenient getaway
• Additional amenities like picnic areas and trails

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Ebenezer Park – Lake Wylie

Location: 4490 Boatshore Rd, Rock Hill, SC
Website: yorkcountygov.com
Phone: 803-366-6620

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Situated on the shores of Lake Wylie, Ebenezer Park offers a tranquil swimming area enclosed by a circular pier. The park features a sandy beach, picnic shelters, and camping facilities. Swimming is at your own risk, as there are no lifeguards on duty.

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Hours: Year-round; swim at your own risk
Admission: Park entrance fees apply
CLTBucketlist Recommends: Wear water shoes for comfort on the lakebed.

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Why To Swim Here:

• Peaceful lake setting ideal for relaxation
• Enclosed swimming area for added safety
• Opportunities for camping and extended stays

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Aura Rooftop Pool

Location: 124 E Brooklyn Village Ave, Charlotte, NC
Website: aurarooftop.com
Phone: 704-499-6645

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Perched atop the JW Marriott in Uptown Charlotte, Aura Rooftop Pool offers a luxurious swimming experience with stunning city views. The pool area features cabanas, a bar serving cocktails and light bites, and a chic ambiance perfect for a day of indulgence.

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Hours: Daily, 8 AM–8 PM; reservations recommended
Admission: Access via hotel stay or cabana reservation
CLTBucketlist Recommends: Reserve a cabana for a VIP experience.‍

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Why To Swim Here:

• Sophisticated rooftop setting with panoramic views
• Poolside service with curated food and drink options
• Ideal for a luxurious daycation in the city

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Carolina Harbor – Carowinds

Location: 14523 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC
Website: carowinds.com
Phone: 704-588-2600

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Carolina Harbor is the largest water park in the Carolinas, located within Carowinds amusement park. It features a variety of attractions, including wave pools, water slides, and a lazy river. New for 2025 is the adults-only Carolina Harbor Shore Club, featuring Charlotte's first swim-up bar, Paul Metto's Boathouse Bar. ‍

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Hours: Seasonal; check website for current hours
Admission: Included with Carowinds park admission
CLTBucketlist Recommends: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.

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Why To Swim Here:

• Extensive water attractions for all ages
• Exclusive 21+ swim-up bar for adults
• Convenient access to both water and amusement park rides‍

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Great Wolf Lodge

Location: 10175 Weddington Rd, Concord, NC
Website: greatwolf.com/concord
Phone: 866-925-96533

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Great Wolf Lodge offers an 84-degree indoor water park, making it a year-round destination for family fun. The park includes water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, along with dry-land activities like arcade games and themed suites for overnight stays.

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Hours: Daily; hours vary by season
Admission: Included with hotel stay; day passes available
CLTBucketlist Recommends: Book a weekday stay for better rates and fewer crowds.

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Why To Swim Here:

• Climate-controlled indoor water park for all-season fun
• Variety of attractions suitable for all age groups
• On-site accommodations for extended stays

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Cane Creek Park

Location: 5213 Harkey Rd, Waxhaw, NC
Website: unioncountync.gov
Phone: 704-843-3919‍

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Cane Creek Park is a 1,050-acre outdoor recreation area featuring a 350-acre lake with a designated swimming beach. The park offers amenities like pedal boats, miniature golf, and camping facilities. Swimming is available during the summer season, with lifeguards on duty when Union County Public Schools are on summer break.

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Hours: Seasonal; typically 11 AM–6:30 PM during summer
Admission: $2 per swimmer; park entrance fees apply
CLTBucketlist Recommends: Combine swimming with a camping trip for a full weekend getaway.‍

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Why To Swim Here:

• Family-friendly beach with lifeguard supervision
• Additional recreational activities available
• Peaceful natural setting away from the city bustle

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Dive Into Charlotte's Best Swimming Spots

From natural quarries and serene lakes to luxurious rooftop pools and expansive water parks, Charlotte offers a swimming destination for every preference. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or family fun, these spots provide the perfect escape from the summer heat.

For more Queen City adventures and hidden gems, follow us at @CLTBucketlist.

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