Not that we're biased, but there's no denying Australia's got a lot going for it: where else in the world can you snorkel with rainbow fish, ski down snowy mountains, buggy across sand dunes and bounce across the high ropes of a rainforest canopy, all within the geographical bounds of one country? All this considered, it should come as no surprise that Australia’s options for a natural dip range right from naturally formed ocean rock pools along the island’s perimeter, to gorges and waterfalls deep among the outback.
Whether it’s escaping the infamous chlorine-green hue that plagues the blondies or getting over that nagging feeling that a shark is circling in the depths of the deep blue sea, these natural swimming spots hold their own as a pretty decent substitution for the traditional swimming pool and a change of scenery from sandy shores.
Remember that there are always risks involved with swimming, especially at unpatrolled places. Always take care to check things such as depth and currents before swimming or jumping into water, and confirm that others you’re swimming with are confident in the water before entering any swimming spot. If you're not a confident, experienced swimmer, avoid unpatrolled swimming spots altogether.
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Rev up the 4WD because this spot requires some elbow grease to reach. Maguk is actually so secret that it’s only visitable for half of the year – during the dry season, that is. A beautiful waterfall means ever-changing conditions with NT’s equatorial wet season. Set out a picnic on the sand that lines the gorge and marvel at the freshwater fish zipping past you. So many, in fact, that the area used to be known as Barramundi Gorge.
K’gari, also known as Fraser Island, is a tropical oasis just moments away from mainland Queensland. The only problem? Most of the island’s alluring blue waters are unswimmable due to some serious currents. That’s where the Champagne Pools come in. They were aptly named after the effect of the ocean bubbling over the rocks into the pool. Located along 75 Mile Beach (that’s 120 kilometres for Aussie folks playing along at home), you can access the pools by a short walk along the boardwalk.
Karijini National Park is brimming with a wealth of spots to cool off thanks to a permanent waterfall supplied by a fresh spring. While Hamersley Gorge (pictured) is all blue waters and orange rock formations as far as the eye can see, other places for a dip include Kermit’s Pool, known for its iridescent green colour, or the source of the water itself, Fortescue Falls. You can access the water by a whole heap of hiking tracks ranging from one kilometre up, but be prepared for some steep decline.
Formed in the rock face on a beach in Sydney's Royal National Park, the Figure Eight Pools have become something of a social media sensation (as far as rockpools go), and not without good reason. Be prepared to put the effort in to access this special spot. First up, you’ll need to drive an hour out of Sydney to the Garawarra Farm carpark in the Royal National Park. From there, take the walking track for six kilometres – you’ll go along Garie Road for a while, down a steep hill before joining the Coast Track, which will take you all the way to Burning Palms Beach.
Who needs a plunge pool at a five-star resort when you can be one of the only ones to visit a natural one? The Jim Jim Falls plunge pool is actually one of the only places you can swim in this area, no matter how inviting the water looks in the NT heat. If it looks good to you, it looks ten times better to the local crocs. But fear not, because the plunge pool and mini beach are divided by rocks, making it harder for crocs to get to, and park rangers regularly monitor the two swimming spots.
According to research, New South Wales is home to a whole 50 per cent of the world’s known ocean pools. This one on the South Coast is pretty special, especially factoring in its surroundings. The idyllic seaside town of Kiama may be small, but manages to pack in four different natural pools. Just a minute's walk away from each other, you can jump between them all, and visit the famous blowhole on the way. Finish off with the (literal) cherry on top by grabbing a scoop of gelato from the main strip.
Suppose you want a primo Instagrammable experience that simultaneously makes you feel like you’ve transcended reality. In that case, the gentle three-tiered waterhole at Buley Rockhole in Litchfield National Park is one for you. Imagine an opalescent series of freshwater pools set into deep orange rock, surrounded by lush green rainforest. Open pretty much year-round, this swimming hole is special no matter the time of day.
Despite its tropical location, this creek is a surprisingly cool refuge from Queensland’s muggy heat. The boulders lining the waterway have been smoothed over by water flowing from the nearby Mount Bartle Frere making for awesome spots to lie out and soak up the sun, reptile-style. A 1.3 km walk downstream from the picnic area will lead you to the Devil’s Pool that was named after a dreamtime story from the Yidinji people involving two lovers, adultery, an escape and a whole lot of tears (that flowed into the gushing waters you see today).
This gorgeous keyhole lookout is just one feature of the beautiful rocky outcrops lining the Eyre Peninsula. Once you’ve descended from the carpark and watched a sunset or two peak its rays through the tunnel, you can turn the corner and peruse the many rockpools. While you’re taking a dip or exploring marine life, keep an eye peeled for the dolphins and seals that regularly grace the bay.
Hand-carved from ancient rock by convicts in 1819, this now iconic Newcastle swim spot is named for the Dharawal word ‘to bathe’. It’s a beautiful sight, but proceed with caution, it’s not patrolled. While in the area, also check out Newcastle's Merewether Baths – the largest ocean baths in Australia (and the Southern Hemisphere).
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