Some Of The Bluest Waters In The US

Nothing beats clear blue waters when it comes to a relaxing vacation. But you don’t have to leave the country to see gorgeous water. You don’t even need to be near an ocean. Below is a list of some of the bluest waters in the U.S., from glass-like glacial lakes to a lake within a collapsed volcano crater, to a mineral-rich crystal blue creek in the Grand Canyon.

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Havasu Falls, Arizona

Located at the Havasupai Indian Reservation within the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls has unbelievably crystal blue waters due to the calcium carbonate and magnesium that occur naturally in Havasu Creek. In fact, Havasupai means “people of the blue-green waters,” according to the National Park Service. It’s not uncommon to see people swimming and wading at the base of the waterfall. The area is open again this season for the first time since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lake Tahoe, Nevada and California

Lake Tahoe straddles the border between Nevada and California, and its gorgeous waters and plentiful activities draw in more than 15-million tourists per year. The lake, which is about 2 million years old and one of the world’s 20 oldest lakes, is ideal for boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, hiking and more, and 11 nearby ski resorts offer plenty for skiers and snowboarders alike. For those who don’t mind cool water, beaches provide an ideal place for swimming.

Tenaya Lake, Yosemite National Park, California

Often referred to as the “Jewel of the High Country,” this glacial lake boasts clear blue waters and sits at 8,150 feet above sea level. Granite boulders surround the lake, where visitors can swim, kayak and boat. Tenaya Lake, which was named after Chief Tenaya, the last chief of the Yosemite Indians, is the largest lake in Yosemite’s frontcountry, according to the National Park Service, and is one of the most popular destinations in the park during summertime.

Crater Lake, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Waimanalo Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

With Hawaii’s countless stunning beaches, it’s tough to pick one with the most beautiful waters, but Waimanalo Beach in Oahu certainly ranks. Many of the beaches on Oahu’s Windward (eastern) side are noted as some of the best beaches on the island, and the area offers a slower-paced atmosphere than the more metropolitan sections. Boasting turquoise waters and soft, white sand, beachgoers will be in paradise.

Lambert’s Cove Beach, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

This East Coast gem has some of the bluest waters on Martha’s Vineyard. Both Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard have some of the bluest waters on the East Coast, and Martha’s Vineyard has much to offer visitors. The cove is loved for its Caribbean-like feel, as it’s not as rocky as other beaches on the island, according to TripAdvisor, but only homeowners or guests staying in the town of West Tisbury are permitted to use the beach.

Jenny Lake, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

This glacial lake might be too cold for swimming, but that doesn’t make it any less peaceful and enjoyable. Snow-capped peaks surround Jenny Lake, which is one of the most popular spots within Grand Teton National Park. The perfectly waveless, calm water makes for great boating, canoeing and kayaking.

Flamenco Beach, Culebra, Puerto Rico

​Flamenco Beach on the Puerto Rican island of Culebra is rated one of the best beaches in the world, according to discoverpuertorico.com. Soft sand, blue waters and plenty of nearby amenities make this a popular swimming and sunbathing spot. The island is an easy day trip from San Juan, the U.S. territory’s capital. The clear waters make for great snorkeling and sea life spotting.

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