If there’s one thing Australians do better than anyone else, it’s water. Oceans, rivers, billabongs, rockpools—you name it, we've got it - served up with a healthy dose of sunshine and sea life. While Bondi Beach and the Great Barrier Reef have their well-deserved global fan clubs, some of the country’s most spectacular swimming holes remain blissfully under the radar. Here are a few aquatic treasures to add to your bucket list when you’re ready to trade the tourist-packed shores for something unique.
1. Yarrangobilly Thermal Pool, New South Wales:
Hidden in the snowy expanse of Kosciuszko National Park, Yarrangobilly Thermal Pool is a geothermal gem, perfect for family-friendly swimming or a relaxing soak in its consistently warm waters. Fed by a natural spring, the water stays at a balmy 27°C year-round. Surrounded by bushland and accessible via a short but steep trail, it’s the kind of place that feels like a well-kept secret—if you can keep from telling everyone about it yourself! Bring your camera; the mist rising off the pool on a chilly morning is pure magic.
2. Ellenborough Falls Pool, New South Wales
At the base of one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in the Southern Hemisphere lies a tranquil swimming pool. Accessible by a steep descent through dense forest, this spot is as remote as it is beautiful. The sound of the cascading water and the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy make for an otherworldly swimming experience. It’s perfect for adventurers who don’t mind earning their dip.
3. Gubara Pools, Northern Territory
Located within Kakadu National Park but far from the crowds, Gubara Pools is a series of serene, shaded pools perfect for a peaceful soak. The hike to reach them takes you through monsoon forests, and the reward is a tranquil oasis away from the better-known swimming spots in the park. Keep an eye out for birds such as rainbow bee-eaters and forest kingfishers, as well as other wildlife like wallabies and water monitors, as you enjoy this hidden paradise. [Source: Parks Australia]
4. Wolfe Creek Crater Pool, Western Australia
Yes, Wolfe Creek is best known as a meteorite crater, but few people know about the seasonal pool that forms in its depths after heavy rains. While it’s not a year-round option, those lucky enough to visit during the wet season will find a uniquely extraterrestrial swimming experience. Just remember to check the conditions and come prepared for the rugged trek.
5. Fern Pool, Western Australia
Tucked away in Karijini National Park, Fern Pool feels like a scene from a dream. A short walk from Fortescue Falls, this quiet spot is framed by lush greenery and fed by a gentle waterfall. It’s a place for quiet reflection and leisurely swims, offering a sense of serenity that’s hard to match. Early mornings here are particularly enchanting.
6. Little Blue Lake, South Australia
Near Mount Gambier, Little Blue Lake is a volcanic sinkhole that’s a vivid shade of turquoise during the summer months. Located near Mount Gambier, it offers easy access via a short path, with nearby parking and picnic facilities making it an ideal spot for a day trip. It’s less crowded than the region’s more famous Blue Lake, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude. The water is deep and cool, so it’s ideal for a refreshing dip on a hot day. Pack a picnic and soak in the serenity.
7. Cedar Creek Falls, Queensland
While the Whitsundays are better known for their beaches, Cedar Creek Falls offers a fresh take on tropical swimming. Nestled in the hinterlands, these cascading falls feed into a natural rock pool surrounded by lush vegetation. Visit during the wet season for the best flow, and keep your eyes peeled for the occasional butterfly migration passing through.
Final Thoughts
Australia is a country that practically demands you pack your swimmers. While its most famous swimming spots will always have their allure, it’s these lesser-known gems that offer a taste of adventure, tranquillity, and unfiltered natural beauty. Whether soaking in a thermal spring or swimming beneath a waterfall, you’re guaranteed to leave with a story worth telling—and maybe a sunburn or two.So as you’re planning your next summer escape, consider these tranquil and exclusive swimming spots that promise serenity and adventure far from the crowds. Your inner explorer will thank you.
Learn more: My Sources are your sources (except for the confidential ones):
- Yarrangobilly Thermal Pool – NSW National Parks Service
- Ellenborough Falls Pool – Visit NSW
- Gubara Pools – Parks Australia
- Wolfe Creek Crater Pool – Western Australia Tourism
- Fern Pool – Karijini National Park Guides
- Little Blue Lake – South Australia Tourism
- Cedar Creek Falls – Tourism Whitsundays
Get swimming!
