8 of Australia’s best swimming holes
Dive in and discover the very best natural pools this country has to offer.
Whoever coined the well-known phrase ‘you never regret a swim’ was certainly not wrong. Whether you’re diving into the deep blue sea, a natural rock pool, a moody lake or a secluded lagoon, swimming is one of the most therapeutic practices you can partake in.
Thankfully, Australia is home to an endless list of watering holes you can escape to in order to make the most of the numerous health benefits swimming has to offer. From Bitter Springs in the Northern Territory to Millaa Millaa Falls in Queensland, here are eight dreamy destinations that promise to deliver the ultimate dip.
The Basin, Rottnest Island, WA
The Basin on Rottnest Island boasts a welcoming saltwater rock pool that rivals its famous stretch of sandy shore. Shallow and filled with the clear turquoise waters that roll in from the Indian Ocean, this swimming hole is nestled within The Basin’s reef, meaning it’s a sheltered and protected spot that the whole family will enjoy.
Emma Gorge, El Questro Wilderness Park, WA
Located in the East Kimberley Region, El Questro Wilderness Park plays host to Emma Gorge, an isolated pool well-positioned within the expansive 700,000-acre property. Lose yourself in the serenity of the park and sink yourself into its cool waters.
Bitter Springs, Elsey National Park, NT
If you happen to find yourself in the Northern Territory, be sure to visit Elsey National Park, located just outside of Mataranka. Here, Bitter Springs offers up tranquil thermal pools surrounded by lush greenery — together, these make for the ultimate swimming experience.
Greenly Beach Rock Pools, Coulta, SA
Greenly Beach’s celebrated rock pools are as inviting as they are beautiful. Located on the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia — which is just an hour’s drive from Port Lincoln — these mermaid pools boast clear turquoise waters, soft white sand and picture-perfect rock formations.
Gunlom Plunge Pool, Kakadu National Park, NT
Much like a natural infinity pool, Gunlom Plunge Pool in the Northern Territory offers up breathtaking views over Kakadu National Park, the country’s largest national park. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world and take a swim we can guarantee you’ll never forget.
Killen Falls, Tintenbar, NSW
Killen Falls plays host to a picturesque swimming hole worth travelling to. Positioned between Byron Bay and Ballina, the lush rainforest gully features a stunning waterfall, a sheltered cave and rock formations that make for the perfect picnic spot.
Millaa Millaa Falls, Atherton Tablelands, QLD
Tropical North Queensland’s famous Millaa Millaa Falls boasts an epic 18 metre waterfall that flows into a beautiful plunge pool. A popular destination for tourists — and likely one you’ve seen in countless travel photographs — it’s positioned on the Atherton Tablelands’ well-known Waterfall Circuit.
Turpin Falls, VIC
Victoria’s Turpin Falls is a welcoming billabong bordered by a spectacular 20 metre-high rock wall on three sides. Sheltered and protected, the isolated pool on the Campaspe River offers up everything you need for a perfectly private swim.