Just an hour from Sydney, Jellybean Pool is one of the best wild swimming holes near Sydney, offering fresh creek water, a sandy shore and climbable cliffs without the long hike. Set in Glenbrook, within Blue Mountains National Park, it’s an easy escape for a swim and a day out in nature.
Here is everything to know before you go, from the walk and water safety to entry fees, parking and where to eat nearby.
What is Jellybean Pool?
Jellybean Pool sits where Glenbrook Creek bends through Glenbrook Gorge, beneath sandstone cliffs and tall mountain spotted gums. Its name comes from the pool’s distinctive shape, though most visitors come for the shallow edges, sandy banks and easy access.
A favourite with families, locals and Sydney day trippers looking for wild swimming near Sydney, Jellybean Pool is ideal for a swim, a float on a lilo or a picnic beneath the gum trees. The mountain creek water can be cool, even in summer.
Can you swim at Jellybean Pool? Yes! Swimming is allowed when conditions are suitable. However, this is a natural creek swimming hole, not a patrolled pool, so there are no lifeguards. Supervise children closely, never jump or dive into the water and avoid swimming after heavy rain, when runoff can affect water quality. NPWS recommends staying out of the water until several days after rainfall.
There are toilets near the track, but no kiosk or bins, so bring your own food, drinking water and supplies, and take all rubbish home. Dogs and other pets are not permitted in the national park, except certified assistance animals.
Things to do near Jellybean Pool
Make a day of it with more of Glenbrook’s easy bush escapes. Nearby, Blue Pool is another popular swimming hole along Glenbrook Creek, while the Glenbrook Gorge Track offers a longer, more rugged walk through the gorge.
For a family-friendly add-on, Red Hands Cave, one of the Blue Mountains’ most well-known Aboriginal heritage sites, featuring ancient hand stencils that offer a glimpse into the area’s rich Indigenous history.
Otherwise, Euroka campground is nearby and makes a great base for a Blue Mountains camping weekend, with plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding bushland.
Where to eat near Jellybean Pool
Back in Glenbrook village, there are plenty of spots to refuel after a swim. Café 2773 is a great family-friendly option, serving all-day breakfast, lunch, woodfired pizza and dinner, plus an undercover play area to keep the kids entertained.
For a relaxed coffee or brunch, head to Kickaboom or Vincent, two popular local cafés known for their laid-back atmosphere. If you’re planning a picnic or want to take some goodies home, Con’s Continental Deli is also worth a stop for its selection of Mediterranean produce, cheeses and cured meats.
Getting there
The journey is an approximate hour away from Sydney. Drive via Ross Street and Burfitt Parade to Bruce Road, following signs to the Jellybean car park. From there, it’s a 1km return walk (around 30–60 minutes) down a stepped track, unsuitable for prams and wheelchairs. Alternatively, walk 2.4km from Glenbrook Station (around 30–36 minutes).
Entry to the Glenbrook area is $8 per vehicle per day, payable at the gate or via the Park’nPay app. Gates are open 8.30am–7pm in summer and 8.30am–6pm the rest of the year. Arrive early on hot weekends and school holidays as parking fills quickly.
Planning a Blue Mountains day trip sometime soon? Save this guide to Jellybean Pool, and explore more of Sydney’s best wild swimming spots and easy day trips.
