Summertime in Sydney can be lovely when it’s balmy and warm, with clear blue skies, sandy beaches, and sparkling blue waters. But it’s no secret that some days can be very hot. On those days there is nothing better than slipping into your swimsuit and taking a plunge into a freshwater swimming hole beside a gushing waterfall. If you’re craving cooler pastures, plan a trip to these natural sanctuaries around NSW cloaked in cool forests, wonderful cascades, and hiking paths galore. Even better — no crowds. So, slap on some sunscreen, pack some snacks, and head out to explore these pleasantly cool national parks that are even more enjoyable in the summer.
1. Royal National Park
Offering breathtaking coastal views, stunning walking trails, waterfalls, native wildlife, rainforest, and much more, one of the oldest national parks in the world packs endless adventures for nature lovers. On a hot summer day, head to Karloo Pools, one of the best natural swimming holes near Sydney or look for the popular Wattamolla Falls — a gorgeous beach waterfall that drops into a crystal clear swimming lagoon, promising plenty of fun and good times to all who enter. At just an hour’s drive from Sydney, the Royal National Park is a fantastic day trip offering a respite from the hustle and grind of city life.
2. Budderoo National Park
Budderoo National Park is just a 2-hour drive from Sydney and one of the best national parks in NSW to swim in. Here, you will be treated to long winding rainforest walks, turquoise swimming holes, and stunning lookouts. The park is particularly famous for its waterfalls that cascade into clear water swimming pools. Nellies Glen is one of the standout waterfall swimming holes here with shaded areas, a dense bushland setting, and refreshingly cool waters. Also worth the hike is the Insta-worthy Blue Pool, a natural swimming pool that glows with a brilliant blue when the light hits just right.
3. Dorrigo National Park
Dorrigo National Park is beautifully far removed from the city, making the journey there part of the adventure. It’s home to arguably some of the most visually impressive waterfalls in NSW including the thundering Dangar Falls which has an enticing swimming hole perfect for splashing around on a hot day. Take in the beautiful surroundings as you float — wild bushland, clear open skies, and crisp, clean air included. Also worth a visit is the wildly pretty Crystal Shower Falls here that you can walk behind. It’s a short trek to the falls but a favorite among locals. And don’t miss out on the Red Cedar Falls — Dorrigo’s largest waterfall and a jaw-dropping sight to see up close.
4. Booderee National Park
For pristine white sand beaches, unspoiled coastal scenery, tranquil botanic gardens, and clear blue waters drive down to the Booderee National Park. No matter where you choose to go you’ll be met with incredible scenery but when the mercury is rising, we recommend making your way to Whiting Beach. It’s a 2-hour walk from the Steamers Car Park in Booderee National Park and if you visit after a day of rain, you’ll be treated to a little freshwater waterfall here. The beach boasts clear, inviting waters, perfect for snorkelling and swimming. Other great spots for a swim here include the lush Murrays Beach and the beautiful Caves Beach. Located in the Jervis Bay area, and accessible via the gorgeous Grand Pacific Drive, make sure to carve out time for all the picture-perfect pitstops along the way.
5. Blue Mountains National Park
The Blue Mountains National Park is known for its varied landscapes, from famous lookouts and waterfalls to rainforests, and walking trails, some of which are beautifully illuminated at night. This frequently visited destination is a nature lover’s dream and there is plenty to do here but if you’re after waterfalls with swimming holes, we recommend Empress Falls, a smaller waterfall with a shaded pool at its base, the easy 3km South Lawson Waterfall Circuit which is dotted with lovely little cascades and swimming holes and the bucket list Grand Canyon Track which features hidden waterfalls and serene swimming holes perfect for cooling off on a hot day. One of our favourites is Horseshoe Falls which reveals a dazzling secret after dark.
6. Kosciuszko National Park
They say good things come to those who wait, and while five hours from Sydney might seem like a long time, the adventure to Kosciuszko is worth it. This popular national park in NSW leads to the highest peak in Australia with expanses of natural beauty all around. While it’s a sought-after spot in spring and winter for wildflowers, snow-capped mountains, and stunning glacial lakes, it’s also home to Blue Waterholes, an underrated hidden gem, so hidden you might even get them to yourself. You will also find caves, gorges, and waterfalls here if you want to stay a while and soak up the natural beauty. There is also a Waterfall walking track here, a sheltered walk close to Jindabyne that leads to a beautiful waterfall. The Blue Waterholes Campground is a stone’s throw from the swimming holes and a popular place to camp if you’re visiting.
Find more national park and waterfall adventures around NSW here.