Tucked inside lush rainforests, cenotes and spring-fed pools are breathtaking in color—sparkling, clear turquoise and emerald—and offer refreshing, cold swims in nature. In Punta Cana, look out for Scape Park’s Hoyo Azul—or blue hole—or the Ojos Indígenas Ecological Reserve, both offering easy rainforest hikes to reach the cenotes. Perhaps the most famous DR springs of all are the 27 Charcos de Damajagua in Puerto Plata, where you can leap or slide to your heart’s content into deep azure pools. You’ll find plenty more fresh water escapes, including Cabarete’s El Choco National Park, and along Barahona’s hiking trail toward Cueva de la Virgen.

With so many lush hills, you’re bound to find your favorite natural pool, available to enjoy any time of the year.