A refreshing and rejuvenating way to connect with nature, wild swimming is the act of swimming in natural bodies of water such as rivers, waterfalls and rockpools. With an abundance of beautiful and pristine swimming spots in Australia, we share our favourites to relax and unwind at.
New South Wales
Image source: Jump On
Ladies Well, Barrington Tops
Tucked away in the Barrington Tops National Park, Ladies Well is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a relaxing swim amid lush rainforests. The cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear rock pools create a serene atmosphere, making it the perfect oasis for those looking to escape the city.
Image source: We Are Explorers
Nellies Glen
Located in the Blue Mountains, Nellies Glen is a series of rock pools and waterfalls, the perfect spot for a refreshing wild swim. Approximately 2 hours’ drive from Sydney and a short walk, it offers clear water and lush surroundings.
Image source: Byron Bay Luxury Homes
Killen Falls, Byron
Killen Falls in Byron Bay are situated in a lush rainforest, surrounded by towering trees and verdant greenery, making it the perfect destination for a wild swim. The area is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including birds, wallabies and platypus.
Image source: We Are Explorers
Dangar Falls
Located in Dorrigo National Park, Dangar Falls is a stunning waterfall that flows 30 meters into a deep swimming hole. Located an hour from Coffs Harbour and only a short walk to the waterfall, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone in the area. The park offers a number of walking trails that are surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife.
Queensland
Image source: Tropical North Queensland
Cardwell Spa Pools
Nestled in the Girringun National Park 2.5 hours’ drive from Cairns, Cardwell Spa Pools is a series of crystal-clear rock pools surrounded by lush rainforest. The pools are known for their therapeutic properties due to the high mineral content of the water. They are fed by underground springs that contain minerals such as magnesium and calcium, which are believed to have healing properties for various skin conditions, joint pain, and other ailments. The water temperature is warm, making it a comfortable spot for a wild swim in the cooler months.
Image source: Queensland.com
Kondalilla Falls
Located in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, Kondalilla Falls is a stunning waterfall that flows into a series of rock pools. It's approximately 1.5 hours' drive from Brisbane, and only a short walk is required to reach the swimming spot. The pools offer a refreshing and invigorating wild swim experience, surrounded by lush rainforest and birdsong.
Northern Territory
Image source: World of Waterfalls
Florence Falls
Nestled in the heart of the Litchfield National Park in the Northern Territory, Florence Falls is a breathtaking natural waterfall that cascades into a deep swimming hole amidst the lush rainforest. It’s approximately 1.5 hours’ drive from Darwin and a short walk to the falls.
Image source: nt.gov.au
Bitter Springs
Bitter Springs, located in the beautiful town of Mataranka in Katherine, is a hidden gem that offers a unique and rejuvenating wild swim experience. Its crystal-clear, warm waters flow through a lush tropical landscape, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for swimmers. The surrounding area offers a range of nearby walking trails and is also home to a variety of native wildlife.
Western Australia
Image source: Salt & Charcoal
Karijini
Situated in the Karijini National Park, Karijini is a stunning wilderness area known for its breathtaking gorges, waterfalls and rock formations. It’s approximately 14 hours’ drive from Perth, making it the perfect road trip to explore the rest of Western Australia’s natural wonders along the way. Visitors can explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, swim in the crystal-clear rock pools and waterfalls and even camp under the stars.
Image source: So Perth
Pemberton Pool
Pemberton Pool, located in the heart of the Pemberton region in Western Australia, is a beautiful swimming hole offering a refreshing wild swim experience. The pool is fed by the Lefroy Brook and is surrounded by lush karri forest and granite boulders, creating a picturesque and peaceful ambiance. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and a range of bird species.
Victoria
Image source: Concrete Playground
Polly McQuinns, Strathbogie
Located in the Strathbogie Ranges, Polly McQuinns is a series of cascading waterfalls and rock pools. Only a 2 hour drive from Melbourne, it’s a popular destination for swimmers and nature lovers (especially in the warmer months). The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies and a range of bird species.
Image source: Concrete Playground
Blue Pool, East Gippsland
Blue Pool is a stunning natural swimming hole located in the Tambo River just north of Sale. It’s approximately 4 hours’ drive from Melbourne but is well worth the drive. The fresh, clear water and surroundings make it the ideal place for a wild swim or even just a beautiful place to relax.
South Australia
Image source: Glam Adelaide
Dalhousie Springs, Simpson Desert
Hidden away in the Simpson Desert, Dalhousie Springs is a series of thermal springs surrounded by red sand dunes and desert scrub, offering a truly unique wild swim experience. The water temperature at the springs remains at a constant 38°C, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing soak. Visitors can also explore the nearby walking trails, which wind through the surrounding desert landscape and provide stunning views of the area's unique flora and fauna, including the iconic red kangaroo.
Tasmania
Harding Falls
Harding Falls is located in the heart of the Tasmanian wilderness on the east coast. Approximately an hour from nearby coastal towns, the falls are accessible via a peaceful walking trail, providing visitors with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The falls flow into a deep, crystal-clear pool and are surrounded by lush rainforests and towering trees. Extremely cool and refreshing, we recommend a wild swim here in the warmer months.
Hero image source: Walk My World
