From national parks to creeks to beaches, there are countless places in NSW to go for a swim. And some are more secret than others.
With spring in full swing and summer right around the corner, it’s time to make a splash. Check out our list of 8 top swim spots in NSW.
Bermagui Blue Pool
This breathtaking swimming hole on NSW’s South Coast consistently ranks among the prettiest rock pools in Australia. In fact, it is currently number 6 out of the best 8 ocean rock pools in the world.
The 50 metere-long swimming hole is a great place for families and for snorkelling. Even if you dip your head underwater, you’ll be sure to see loads of marine life, from a huge array of fish, to crabs, starfish and pretty anemones.
There’s also easy access to showers and toilets, making it an easy place to visit, especially with young kids..
Bermagui Blue Pool is also a friendly place for those who prefer to stay dry. Enjoy a viewing platform where you have the chance to see whales and admire the beautiful coast while basking in the sun.
Scouts Falls
Located near Coffs Harbour, just over five hours north of Sydney, Scouts Falls is a 10-metre-high waterfall and a much-loved local swimming spot because of the majestic pool at its base. It’s a one-kilometre hike that includes rough terrain and slippery rocks, but it’s a worthwhile adventure to get to the swim spot.
It’s also a great place to spend the entire day, so bring a picnic blanket and some lunch, or just sit back, relax, and take in the soothing sounds of the running waterfall. If you prefer to get active, the waterfall is in the Sherwood Natural Reserve, which is home to a subtropical rainforest and lots of unique plants and animals, so tie up those walking boots and go exploring.
Turon River
Located just over three hours from Sydney, Turon River is known as one of the best swimming spots of NSW. It’s located in Turon National Park, which is a great spot for camping, horse riding and bushwalking. The waters are clear and pristine, making it ideal for fishing and canoeing. You’re also sure to encounter some iconic Aussie wildlife while exploring, ranging from owls and kangaroos, to wombats, goannas, echidnas and wallabies.
The park has well-maintained riverside barbecue and picnic facilities, so bring your friends and family and prepare to have a rejuvenating weekend filled with good food, endless summer rays, and lots of time in the water.
The Bogey Hole
Looking for a place to go for your next Instagram post? The famous Bogey Hole is the place to be. This stunning swim spot in the city of Newcastle is an ocean swimming pool that was originally created for Major James Morisset in 1819 by the convicts. In the past it was called the Commandant’s Baths, but eventually the Bogey Hole was adopted as its name, which is the Dharawal word meaning ‘to bathe’.
The Bogey Hole is located in King Edward Park, in the middle of Newcastle. Make sure to watch out for the waves – and your belongings – as the waves can crash over the rocks and into the pool without warning.
This special spot is now on the NSW State Heritage Register because of its historical importance. Rightfully so, as it may well be the earliest known example in Australia of a purpose-built ocean swimming pool.
Karloo Pools
Venture into Royal National Park – just 45 minutes south of Sydney – and you’ll find the remarkable Karloo Pools. These pools take between 40 minutes to an hour or so to find by walking along the Karloo Walking Track, making them accessible for hikers.
Not only are they completely natural, but they are also filled with ‘whaleback’ rock outcrops, which resemble whales coming up for air. Don’t miss nearby Uloola Waterfalls – a gorgeous site where you can camp for the night and enjoy the beautiful views for longer.
Glenbrook Gorge and Jellybean Pool
Both located in the Blue Mountains, Glenbrook Gorge and Jellybean Pool are exhilarating places to take a dip.
At Glenbrook Gorge, enjoy a quiet swim spot with sandy beach areas and a picture-perfect vista of smooth scattered boulders. It’s a bit of a hike that could take a bit over two hours, but it’s well worth the calorie burning.
Jellybean Pool is the perfect swim spot for families, with the walk there taking up to an hour. Its calm tides and sandy beaches make for a relaxing outing for everyone. Be sure to bring binoculars – you could spot birds such blue kingfishers, kookaburras and even eagles along the way.
Mulligans Hut Swimming Spot
This swim spot is located in Gibraltar Range National Park in Northern NSW. It is not only a great place for a dip, but also an ideal spot to go camping with the family. It is surrounded by densely forested areas and is close to several other walking trails. Follow the Dandahra Falls Walk for 200 meters and you’ll reach the creek.
The area was named after Bill Mulligan – an entrepreneur from the 1900s who promoted the hydro-electric scheme. You can view his hut (pictured above) and the remains of two historic dams from the water.
If you enjoyed this story about swim spots of NSW, check out our article about public pools to visit in Sydney.
