Queensland natural swimming holes: 8 summer escapes

Dip into another dimension and explore the best natural swimming holes in Queensland this summer. This tropical paradise is hiding some of Australia’s best-kept secrets, tucked away in mother nature’s goodness and just waiting to be discovered during your next adventure. Skip the busy beach and explore hidden waterfalls, natural infinity pools and more.

Keep reading for eight, all-natural Queensland swimming holes, and let us show you the best way to cool off this summer!

8. Fairy Pools – Noosa

If you love swimming in the ocean but being out of your depth scares you a little, then you will fall in love with the quaint little rock formations here in Noosa. Over time the waves have kindly created a safe place for ocean lovers to swim peacefully. You will find the fairy pools a short walk from Noosa Heads and visiting at low tide is key. If you are keen to beat the crowds head down for an early morning swim or visit on the weekdays. Follow the boardwalk and embrace the magical beauty of the Fairy Pools. p.s, don’t forget your camera.

7. Cedar Creek – Samford

Once a secret spot that only the locals knew about and now a popular hidden gem beneath leafy green trees and bush. Just a short 20-minute drive from Samford on Brisbane's northside will lead you to Cedar Creek Road, continue down this road, and welcome to paradise. The perfect place for a family day out, picnic date or stop off on your Queensland road trip to cool, down during those hot sunny days.

6. Cougal Cascades – Gold Coast, Hinterland

Skip the golden beaches and head inland. Although short in distance, the bush walk packs a punch in terms of beauty. Meander through the subtropical rainforest for the most beautiful reward. The path follows the Currumbin Creek passing rock pools, waterfalls, and viewing platforms. This spot is a sweet hang-out for summer and a dip in the pools will instantly refresh and revitalise you.

5. Mossman Gorge - Port Douglas

Discover something beautiful and dive into a world of rainforest discovery during your trip to the Daintree. This lush tropical rainforest is only 20 minutes away from the popular Port Douglas and a dip in this natural swimming hole swim is somewhat a rite of passage for those who visit. Take an easy 10-minute stroll along the elevated boardwalks passing crystal clear rock pools and waterfalls. Visiting Mossman Gorge is a must-do in the area, don’t miss this one.

4. Currumbin Rock Pools – Brisbane

Whether is it beach or bush this summer you will have the best of both worlds here in Brisbane. Follow the creek inland, through the valley to a secret swimming hole that is one hundred percent worth the effort to find. Leap off the ledges, play on the rope swing and bring back all the nostalgic childhood feels as you bathe in the icy cold Currumbin Rock Pools. Perfect for a summer’s day relaxing in the fine sunshine.

3. Zoe Falls - Hinchinbrook Island

Forget your European infinity pool dreams, you can have it right here in Queensland, and best of all… it’s free and created by mother nature herself. If you are looking for a place to fully switch off, immerse yourself in nature, and recharge your soul then put Zoe Falls on your road trip itinerary pronto. Zoe Falls is a waterfall that cascades down into a tropical blue swimming hole, surrounded by, you guessed it, rainforest. An infinity pool looking down over the picturesque Zoe Bay, does it get any better than this? Instagrammers unite, this place is magic for the gram!

2. Babinda Boulders – Cairns

Cairns is just the gift that keeps on giving. You are never far away from the rainforest and thankfully this corner of the world has some of the best natural playgrounds we could wish for. Babinda Boulders sit in a creek just south of Cairns. The clear freshwater is ever so inviting during those humid summer days, and we promise you will be amazed at the insane beauty of this area. There are large pools for swimming and huge rocks to lounge on for relaxing. Pack a picnic, sunscreen, and a towel for a day in the bush.

1. Champagne Pools - Fraser Island

Home to some of the finest beaches in the world, expansive ocean views, and some frequent marine life visitors it's no wonder that locals and visitors alike flock to the stunning Fraser Island Champagne pools. One of the best, and natural attractions on Fraser Island this ocean-formed rock pool creates a shallow place to swim, float and sunbathe right on the edge of the ocean. The pools fill with water with every wave and the name comes from the fizzing sea foam that creates that jacuzzi feeling. Low tide will be calm and peaceful and as always, heading down for sunrise or sunset will provide you with the Instagram bangers you so desire.

Feeling inspired?

If we've sparked an interest to pack up and head out on the ultimate Queensland roadie this summer, check out the vans in your area here and get ready to hit the road!