There's nothing quite like gliding through crystal-clear water on a warm, sunny afternoon. These swimming spots across Massachusetts have the cleanest, most beautiful water around. Some places are so pristine that you'll be able to look down and see your toes wriggling with delight. For more outstanding spots by the water, check out the best beaches in Massachusetts that are perfect for a day by the water. For now, here are our picks for some of the very best pristine swimming spots with some of the clearest water in Massachusetts:

1. Hathaway's Pond, Barnstable

Clear water, attentive lifeguards, and an immaculate sand beach make this pond a dream come true. The pond is warm during the warmest months, and is a great place to bring young kids, too!

2. Wingaersheek Beach, Gloucester

This gorgeous beach has plenty of shallow areas that absolutely glimmer in the sunshine. Perch on a rock with a delightful book, or splash around in the water. There are no public restrooms, though there are port-a-potties available.

3. Puffer's Pond, Amherst

This pond is a hidden gem. Featuring sparkling waters and a beautiful waterfall created by a dam, it's a great place to cool off and snap a few scenic photos at the same time. There are also plenty of walking paths, which are perfect for finding a bit of tranquility. It's one of the best lakes in Massachusetts.

4. Billingsgate Shoal, Eastham

This glimmering shoal was once called Billingsgate Island. The land may have eroded away, but this swimming spot is still the perfect place to get away from it all.

5. Lake Mansfield, Great Barrington

This pristine public beach doesn’t require a resident sticker, which is a big deal during the warmest months. There’s plenty of parking to go around and a nice swathe of grassy lawn where you can relax after a swim. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer. When it comes to pristine swimming spots with some of the clearest water in Massachusetts, this is just about as good as it gets.

Take a look at this video by @mancello:

6. Breezy Picnic Grounds/Waterslides, Douglas

This spot combines the best parts of an all-natural swim spot with man-made thrills. Whiz down the lakeside water slides, or just wade into the clear waters of the Whiting Reservoir. There's also an immaculately maintained picnic area.

7. Good Harbor Beach, Gloucester

This lovely beach features a few different areas. There’s a shallow pool where kids can splash and enjoy the sunshine in addition to the main beach. At low tide, you can walk to nearby Salt Island. Just get back before the waters rise again! Keep in mind that there is a parking charge here during the summer season.

8. Lake Dennison, Winchendon

This pond includes a campground, just in case you enjoy the spot so much that you can't bear to leave. The shore is not usually crowded (the image above is from a boating event on the lake), and the waters are quite warm and clean.

Take a look at this video by @igorjkos:

9. Upper Goose Pond, Lee

This lovely swimming hole is rather secluded, so the waters stay spotlessly clean. You can rent a canoe from the small dock, or simply enjoy the sparkling water from a blanket laid out on the shore.

10. Morses Pond, Wellesley

This is a nice place to bring the entire family for a bit of splashing around. The long floating dock with a ladder makes it easy to enter and exit the water, though you'll definitely be in no hurry to get out. The water is quite clean, and smaller kids will have a blast playing in the sparkling shallow areas. This area is open seasonally, so make sure to check the official website for closure and season information.

Take a look at this video by @wickedlocalcentral-metro3390:

11. Chapel Brook Falls, Ashfield

This is a magnificent spot to go during those particularly brutal summer heat waves. The waters are very cool and incredibly clear. There are a few different "levels" where you can sit and admire the rushing spray of the falls. Parking is nearby, though you'll have to hike a short distance to reach the cascade itself.

12. Long Pond, Middlesex Falls

Long Pond is ringed by tall trees and set deep in the woods, so you get a proper sense of seclusion and privacy. The water is incredibly clear, though it has a rocky bottom rather than a sandy one. Bring your kayak for a peaceful paddle around this beautiful spot.

13. Chatham Lighthouse Beach, Chatham

You can really appreciate how clear the water is at this beach when the tide recedes. There's plenty of beach space for all, and it's only steps away from the beautiful and historic Chatham Lighthouse. It's one of the most. beautiful beaches in Massachusetts.

14. Coast Guard Beach, Truro

This beach seems to stretch on forever. Though the waves can get a little wild on windy days, the pristine blue water is always a beautiful sight. Coast Guard Beach is a great place to spot a few seals, as well.

So, what do you think? Do you know of any other pristine swimming spots in Massachusetts that we didn't cover? We'd love to hear your suggestions!

If you're craving a little more New England beachy goodness, this article has some ideas for gorgeous beaches you ought to add to your bucket list.