Maine's Hidden Swimming Hole With Granite Ledges And Glassy Waters Is A Summer Paradise

When it comes to outdoor delights on America's east coast, it's hard to beat Maine. From a gorgeous national park full of wildlife to its iconic coastline best explored via this least-crowded scenic byway, New England's largest state boasts an array of natural wonders. Fans of the great outdoors flock to Maine year-round, and for good reason: it always seems to deliver. 

In the summer, plenty of people hit Maine's beaches, while others go inland, in search of woodsy shade and old, water-filled quarries that have become epic swimming holes. Some of these — like the picture-perfect Lawson's Quarry  —  can be found on patches of land offshore. Situated on idyllic Vinalhaven Island, Lawson's Quarry is an ideal summer destination, when even in often-chilly Maine, the temperatures can soar. 

This quarry lake is tucked out of the way and surrounded by flat granite slabs where visitors can lounge, sunbathe, or dive from the edge into the deep cool waters. Its remote location — plus the fact you have to hop on a boat to get there — also means it's unlikely you'll be battling crowds. However, the spot is large enough to accommodate many visitors, so even when plenty of people are enjoying the quarry it's not hard to find a bit of solitude.

Vinalhaven Island is the largest of the Fox Islands that dot Penobscot Bay off the central Maine coast. Like the others, it can only can be accessed by boat. The 13-mile, one-hour ferry ride from the town of Rockland takes you through waters home to dolphins, porpoises, and whales, and as you approach the forested rise of the island, you'll realize that you're arriving at one of Maine's true jewels.

While many come to Vindalhaven to watch the lobster fisherman ply their trade, hike, eat fresh seafood, and soak up the island's magical ambiance, a trip to Lawson's Quarry is nearly mandatory in the summer. The swimming hole is filled with fresh spring water that reaches depths of up to 50 feet. It's also located just 1.2 miles from the ferry terminal, making it easy to reach on-foot, by car, or better yet — a bicycle that you can rent in Rockland and bring onto the ferry. 

The site is owned by the city, which means it's in no danger of being shut down by capricious land owners. And while beautiful and refreshing, it is a deep pool of very cool water with no lifeguards on duty, so exercise caution, and make sure to wear a flotation device if you're not a strong swimmer.

After you've had your share of swimming, it's time to discover more of the charms that Vinalhaven has on offer. Head into town and sit down for a bite to eat at Dot & Millie's — which specializes in locally-sourced food and also boasts a full bar — or grab a legendary lobster roll at the food truck Greet's Eats, which is a Vinalhaven institution.

The shores and hidden coves of Vinalhaven just beg for exploration, so rent a kayak at the Tidewater Inn and glide across the placid waters, or slip on your hiking shoes and hit one of the trails at the Tiptoe Mountain Preserve, which boats forests, hills, and arresting views of the Vinalhaven and other Fox Islands.

When it comes to accommodations, the island is full of holiday rental options that you can book on Airbnb or VRBO, or you can get a room at a local hotel like the Tidewater – which boasts waterfront views — or the Payne Homestead at the Moses Webster House, a historic Victorian home that functions as a quaint bed and breakfast. For more of Maine's outdoor glory, plan a fun lakeside adventure at this state park.