There’s no better way to stave off the hot Aussie weather than with a refreshing dip. Don’t pester your pal with the backyard pool – Oz has plenty of pretty places to dive into that will do the trick. Here are seven natural swimming spots we reckon are tops.
1. Lake McKenzie, QLD
Named Boorangoora (meaning ‘waters of wisdom’) by the Butchulla people, Lake McKenzie is known to some as the jewel of K’gari (Fraser Island). One glance at it and you’ll see why! This lake contains only rainwater, giving the whole place the illusion of a swimming pool, while the pure white silica sand filters the water leaving it crystal clear for swimmers. This piece of paradise, less than 40 minutes drive from Kingfisher Bay Resort, is accessible on foot via a few hiking trails, or you can hire a 4WD and take the inland tracks.
2. Injidup Natural Spa, WA
A short drive south of Yallingup (and 10 minutes from Smiths Beach Resort) is a hidden rock pool right on the edge of the Indian Ocean. Though the rocks protect swimmers from the turbulent waves that crash and break over them, the churning waters are let in, giving the pool a spa-type feel – fancy! Surfers should also pack their board for neighbouring Injidup Beach, known for its great surf conditions 🏄♂️
3. Second Valley, SA
After arriving at Second Valley on the Fleurieu Peninsula, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d been transported to Cornwall, especially when you spot the rolling cliffs plunging into azure waters. Popular for its cliff jumping, weekends can be a little hectic as locals gather for a dive. Our tip? Add it to your mid-week itinerary or be an early riser on weekends. Also, if you bunk at New Terry Hotel & Golf Resort, you’re only a 10 minute drive away!
4. Apsley River Gorge and Waterhole, TAS
After a hike through the Douglas-Apsley National Park (just over 30mins drive away from Bicheno Hotels Beachfront), cool off with a dip in the clear, deep waterhole of Apsley River Gorge. You might even spot the Australian grayling, an endangered native fish, during your dip. All visitors need a valid Parks pass to enter, with the complete hike taking around three hours (minus any time spent paddling in the waterhole, of course!)
5. Norah Head Rockpool, NSW
A short six-minute drive from the Central Coast holiday spot Toukley, you’ll find Norah Head Rockpool. A ring of stones perfectly lines up to protect swimmers from the rolling waves of Norah Head, meaning you can enjoy a leisurely ocean swim with soft sand under your feet without being dunked. Bonus! When staying in Toukley, you can’t go past the Beachcomber Hotel Resort.
6. Kondalilla Falls, QLD
In the heart of the Sunshine Coast, Kondalilla National Park, which means ‘Rushing Water’ in local Gubbi Gibbu language, is full of incredible landscapes and swimming spots. Volcano activity and the rushing waters created this unique landscape more than 28 million years ago! You’ll understand how when you hear the cascading waters of the 90m Kondalilla Falls along one of the many hiking trails. Staying nearby? Make sure you checkout Altitude on Montville situated in the charming village perched on the Blackall Range.
7. Blue Pool, NSW
Bermagui is a charming little spot to stop if you’re visiting the wonderful Sapphire Coast (as is the comfy Bermagui Beach Hotel!). The Bermagui Blue Pool is a real highlight – with clean and clear sea waters crashing against a cliff backdrop, it’s easy to see why it’s considered to be one of the best ocean rock pools in the world. Accessible via kid-friendly steps, it’s also the perfect spot for whale watching during the migration season.
Remember: always take care when swimming in Australian waterways by reading and observing safety signs and staying alert to weather and ocean conditions.
