Blue Hole, Santa Rosa, New Mexico - Image 1
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Blue Hole Santa Rosa New Mexico

4.6
·650 reviews·Santa Rosa, United States

A stunning natural spring-fed pool in New Mexico, famous for its vibrant blue water and consistent 61°F temperature, popular for swimming and diving.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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Blue Hole, Santa Rosa, New Mexico - Image 1

Blue Hole Santa Rosa New Mexico

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning natural spring-fed pool in New Mexico, famous for its vibrant blue water and consistent 61°F temperature, popular for swimming and diving.

4.6
(650 reviews)

"Breathtaking nature, clear blue water, and a peaceful vibe—don’t miss it!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥶 Wetsuit Recommended

Water is a constant 61°F. A 3mm wetsuit is great for swimming, 7mm for longer dives .

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Weekends get busy. Arrive early for easier parking, especially with a truck .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Blue Hole

The Iconic Blue Hole

Main spring-fed pool

Dive into crystal-clear, intensely blue water that stays a cool 61°F year-round. A natural wonder!

Underwater Caves

Underwater Caves

Within the Blue Hole

Explore the mysterious depths of this collapsed cavern, a popular spot for certified divers.

Park Lake Access

Park Lake Access

Adjacent to the Blue Hole

Enjoy additional swimming and recreational space at the connected Park Lake.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Chill: Prepare for Cold Water

The Blue Hole's refreshing 61°F (16°C) water is a highlight, but it's consistently cold year-round. Pack accordingly, especially if you plan to swim or dive for extended periods. Wetsuits are highly recommended for comfort.Reddit

Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit

Weekends can get busy, with more visitors arriving throughout the day.Reddit Consider visiting on a weekday or arriving early to enjoy the serene atmosphere and ample parking, especially if you're traveling with family.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Beat the desert heat
Crowd
Medium
When
Friday afternoons
Why
Before weekend rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nothing better than leaning into your inner child and swinging off trees At the gorgeous Blue Hole Regional Park! #youlookhappier #swimminghole #blueholeregionalpark #swimmingseason
@kellyanntrimper
250.9K likes • 2M views

🥶 Wetsuit Recommended

Water is a constant 61°F. A 3mm wetsuit is great for swimming, 7mm for longer dives.Reddit

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Weekends get busy. Arrive early for easier parking, especially with a truck.Reddit

The Blue Hole , Santa Rosa , NM #fyp #newmexico #thebluehole #tiktok
@deedeem86
25.4K likes • 897K views
The Blue Hole is a natural sinkhole located in Santa Rosa, New Mexico. It’s known for its striking blue water and was formed from a collapsed cavern, which exposed the groundwater below. It has been a prominent feature of the area for many years and has become a well-known spot for divers and tourists. Some helpful information ℹ️ 🚙 2 hour drive from Albuquerque 🕰️ open 10am-5 pm 💵 $10 for park...
tessa_traverses
8.8K likes • 813.2K views

💰 Check Admission Fees

Entry fees can vary. Confirm current pricing for vehicles and individuals.Instagram

🤿 Scuba Diving Hotspot

Popular for certifications and dives. Book in advance if possible.Instagram+1

The Blue Hole in Santa Rosa NM📍 Open to the public, free and swim at your own risk! Brrr it was quite cold but that didn’t stop up from getting a couple good jumps in! #exploresantarosa #santarosanewmexico #bluehole #thebluehole #theblueholesantarosa #naturalswimminghole #travel #rvlife #diving #jumpin #newmexico #newmexicoadventures
theexplorgmanns_rvlife
34 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥶 Wetsuit Recommended

Water is a constant 61°F. A 3mm wetsuit is great for swimming, 7mm for longer dives.Reddit

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Weekends get busy. Arrive early for easier parking, especially with a truck.Reddit

💰 Check Admission Fees

Entry fees can vary. Confirm current pricing for vehicles and individuals.Instagram

🤿 Scuba Diving Hotspot

Popular for certifications and dives. Book in advance if possible.Instagram+1

☀️ Bring Shade & Picnic

Picnic tables available, but bring your own shade for comfort.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(650 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Blue Hole's breathtaking natural beauty, with its stunningly clear, vibrant blue water being a major highlight. Many appreciate the unique experience of swimming in the consistently cool 61°F water and find it a peaceful escape. It's also a popular and well-regarded spot for scuba diving certifications and exploration.

"Visited the Blue Hole in New Mexico on a Friday. Parking was free that day (normally $10), and I even managed to park my truck bobtail with no problem. The place is amazing — very few people around, crystal-clear but freezing cold water, and you can swim or even schedule a scuba dive. There are picnic tables, a small museum, and a souvenir shop. A great spot to relax and spend quality time with family."

Valdemar

"Breathtaking nature, clear blue water, and a peaceful vibe—don’t miss it! The Blue Hole is truly a hidden gem in the New Mexico desert! The natural beauty of the crystal-clear, deep blue water surrounded by rugged stone is absolutely breathtaking. It’s one of those places that surprises you with how stunning it is in person."

Ashley Hutcherson

"This was the best adventure for the whole family. It's 62 degrees all year round. and a see through lake. Amazing place."

Carleigh Dillman

What People Like

Crystal-clear blue water
Unique cold water experience
Great for scuba diving

What People Dislike

Water is very cold

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Blue Hole is conveniently located right off I-40, about a 2-hour drive east of Albuquerque.Instagram+1 It's also situated along historic Route 66, making it an accessible stop for road-trippers.Instagram

Yes, there is ample parking available. On weekdays, parking is often free, but on weekends, there's typically a vehicle fee.InstagramReddit Larger vehicles like trucks can usually find space.Reddit

Absolutely! Its location directly off I-40 makes it a perfect stop for a refreshing break during a longer road trip across New Mexico.Instagram

Driving is the most common and practical way to reach the Blue Hole, especially if you're coming from nearby cities like Albuquerque or Amarillo.Instagram

The Blue Hole is located in Santa Rosa, NM, which offers a few local amenities. It's also a stop along the historic Route 66, offering a glimpse into Americana.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees can vary. Historically, it has been around $15 per person, with a discount for military personnel, plus a vehicle fee.Instagram Parking might be free on weekdays.Reddit

The Blue Hole is generally open year-round, but it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal closures or repair updates before your visit.Instagram

For general swimming, advance booking is usually not required, but it's wise to check their official website or social media for any updates, especially during peak seasons.Instagram

The admission fee typically grants access to the Blue Hole itself and often includes access to the adjacent Park Lake.Instagram

Discounts may be available for military personnel.Instagram It's best to inquire directly about any other potential discounts.

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

The water temperature at the Blue Hole remains a consistent and refreshing 61°F (16°C) year-round.InstagramReddit+1 This makes it a cool escape even in the summer heat.

Yes, swimming is a primary activity at the Blue Hole! Its clear, cool waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, though be prepared for the chill.TikTokInstagram

Yes, families often enjoy the Blue Hole. The clear water is fascinating for kids, and the consistent temperature makes it a unique experience.TikTokReddit

Besides swimming, the Blue Hole is a popular spot for scuba diving, freediving, and simply enjoying the natural beauty. There are also picnic areas.TikTokInstagram

During the summer months, you can typically find bathrooms and concessions available at the Blue Hole.Instagram

🎫 🤿 Scuba Diving & Freediving

Absolutely! The Blue Hole is one of the most popular scuba diving destinations in the US, known for its clear water and underwater caves.Instagram+2

The Blue Hole is an 80-foot deep, spring-fed pool with a consistent temperature of 61°F. Divers can explore its depths and underwater cave systems.Instagram

Yes, many dive shops offer scuba certification courses at the Blue Hole, making it an excellent training ground.Instagram

Due to the cold water, a 7mm wetsuit is often recommended for diving, or even layering a 3mm under a 7mm for extra warmth.Reddit

Yes, freedivers also frequent the Blue Hole to practice their skills in the clear, deep water.Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The striking blue color of the water is incredibly photogenic. Capture shots of people swimming, diving, and the unique geological formations.TikTokInstagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone to ensure compliance.

Morning light can offer beautiful clarity, while late afternoon can provide softer, warmer tones. The vibrant blue is stunning regardless of the time.

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits, so it's wise to inquire.

A waterproof camera or action camera like a GoPro is ideal for capturing underwater shots. For above-water, a standard DSLR or mirrorless camera will work well.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Blue Hole is a surprisingly fun spot for families! The incredibly clear, bright blue water is mesmerizing for kids, and it's a unique experience to swim in water that's always 61°F.TikTokReddit While it's cold, it's a refreshing change from the desert heat. Pack plenty of towels and warm clothes for after swimming, and consider bringing a small inflatable for younger ones to float on. There are picnic areas, making it easy to spend a few hours enjoying the natural beauty.Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Blue Hole can be a budget-friendly adventure. While there's an entry fee per vehicle and sometimes per person,Instagram it's often less expensive than other attractions. Weekday visits might offer free parking.Reddit Pack your own snacks and drinks to save on concession costs, and enjoy the natural beauty without breaking the bank. It's a great way to experience a unique natural wonder on a budget.Instagram

🤿 Scuba Divers & Freedivers

For certified divers and freedivers, the Blue Hole is a must-visit. Its consistent 61°F temperature, 80-foot depth, and underwater caves offer a fantastic training and exploration site.Instagram+1 Be prepared for the cold with appropriate wetsuits (7mm recommended, or 3mm layered).Reddit Many dive shops offer certifications and guided dives, making it accessible for those looking to advance their skills in a unique freshwater environment.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Science Behind the Blue Hue

The Blue Hole is a natural artesian spring, meaning water is pushed to the surface from underground aquifers. Its intense blue color is due to the purity of the water and how it absorbs and reflects sunlight. The deeper and clearer the water, the more it absorbs longer wavelengths of light (reds and yellows) and reflects shorter wavelengths (blues), creating that signature vibrant hue.Instagram The spring feeds into a collapsed cavern, forming a deep pool that remains a constant 61°F (16°C) year-round, regardless of the outside temperature.Instagram+1

This unique geological formation has been a point of fascination for decades. While its exact origins are still a mystery, it's known to be one of seven interconnected 'sister lakes' in the area.Instagram The consistent temperature and clarity make it an exceptional spot for both recreational swimmers and serious divers looking to explore its underwater depths and cave systems.Instagram+1

For those interested in the natural history, the Blue Hole offers a glimpse into the geological processes that shape New Mexico's landscape. It's a testament to the powerful forces of nature and a refreshing oasis in the desert environment.Reddit

Diving into Adventure: Scuba and Freediving

The Blue Hole is a renowned destination for scuba divers and freedivers, attracting enthusiasts from across the country.Instagram Its clear, 61°F (16°C) waters and impressive depth of 80 feet, with a wider base at 130 feet, provide an excellent training ground for certifications and a unique diving experience.Instagram Many dive shops, including those from nearby states like Texas, offer courses and excursions here.Instagram+1

Divers often praise the Blue Hole for its visibility and the opportunity to practice skills in a controlled, albeit cold, environment. The underwater caves add an element of exploration, though they are typically reserved for certified divers with appropriate experience.Instagram It's crucial for divers to be well-prepared for the cold water, with many recommending a 7mm wetsuit or even layering a 3mm underneath for extended dives.Reddit

Freedivers also find the Blue Hole an appealing location to hone their breath-hold techniques and explore the underwater world. The consistent temperature and clear visibility allow for focused training and a serene diving experience.Instagram Whether you're a beginner looking to get certified or an experienced diver seeking a unique dive site, the Blue Hole offers a memorable aquatic adventure.

Family Fun and Refreshment

The Blue Hole is a fantastic destination for families looking for a unique outdoor experience. The crystal-clear, vibrant blue water is captivating for all ages, and the consistent 61°F (16°C) temperature provides a refreshing escape from the New Mexico heat.TikTokReddit While the water is cold, many visitors find it invigorating and a great way to wake up.Instagram

There are amenities like picnic tables available, making it easy to spend a good portion of the day here. Families can enjoy swimming, exploring the park, and even visiting the small museum or souvenir shop.Reddit The adjacent Park Lake also offers additional space for recreation.Instagram It's a great spot for kids to experience something different and create lasting memories.TikTokReddit

Remember to pack accordingly for the cold water, especially for younger children who might get chilled more quickly. Bringing extra towels and warm clothing for after swimming is a good idea. The Blue Hole offers a memorable and refreshing adventure for the whole family.