Seeking out a refreshing dip to beat the heat? If crowded beaches aren’t your thing, there are plenty of serene spots in and around town that are surrounded by nature and hidden away from the crowds. From hidden harbour beaches tucked away in the city to natural swimming holes with scenic views and refreshing waterfalls to boot, there is no shortage of peaceful places to swim near Sydney. Check out some of our favourite natural swimming spots in NSW.
1. Dangar Falls
Dangar Falls is a stunning sight and well worth the drive out of town. What makes this picturesque waterfall even more impressive is the sparkling swimming hole it flows into. The 30-metre cascade is located two kilometres north of Dorrigo town centre and is flanked by scenic bush and river views. Keep in mind the drop to the pool is very risky and it’s strongly advised never to jump from the top of the falls. Read all about Dangar Falls here.
Distance: 1-hour drive from Coffs Harbour and 6-hour drive from Sydney
2. Nellies Glen
Carrington Falls is a popular destination but surprisingly few are aware of the hidden swimming hole that connects to it. Nellies Glen is another wild swimming spot that makes for the perfect summer getaway with rugged bush views, a small cave at the base of the waterfall, and opportunities for bird-watching. The pool is shallow and it’s firmly advised against jumping in from the top of the waterfall. Read all about it here.
Distance: 2-hour drive from Sydney and an hour’s drive from Wollongong
3. Blue Pool
The South Coast of NSW is home to many natural wonders including white sand beaches and stunning rock formations formed over millions of years. If you’re heading down to this wonderfully rich part of the state, be sure to make a pit stop at the iconic Blue Pool in Bermagui, a picture-perfect natural rock pool with turquoise waters and stunning ocean views. Read all about it here.
4. Parsley Bay
Parsley Bay is a favourite among locals but remains somewhat under the radar compared to other popular swimming spots which is surprising considering it’s one of Sydney’s most idyllic swimming spots. It features an enclosed swimming pool, a photogenic wooden bridge over the water, a little waterfall and a short but pleasant bushwalk. Even better, it’s tucked away in the heart of Vaucluse so you don’t have to go too far to experience its magic. With calm waters and shark netting, it’s a safe and scenic place for families looking to cool off this summer. Plus, it’s an excellent spot for scuba diving. Read all about it on the Woollahra Municipal Council website.
Distance: 30-minute drive from Sydney CBD
5. Gordons Bay
While Gordons Bay is not exactly a hidden gem, the fact that it’s home to Sydney’s only underwater nature trail remains relatively unknown. If bushwalking in the sweltering heat is not your thing, this impressive swimming spot should be on your radar. The 600-metre-long nature trail takes about 40-45 minutes to complete bringing visitors up close to stunning underwater views and local sea life. The turquoise bay is perfect for water activities including swimming, diving and snorkelling. Read all about the underwater nature trail and get more information on the Randwick City Council website.
Distance: 20-minute drive from Sydney CBD
6. Karloo Pools
The Royal National Park is home to several natural swimming holes and beaches but Karloo Pools is one of our favourites. Accessible via the Karloo walking track in the Heathcote precinct of the Royal National Park, it offers excellent options to swim, sunbathe and enjoy a picnic in the sun. As for Karloo Pools, the huge natural swimming hole is surrounded by untouched bushland and is about 30 metres long. The deep bush pool is stunning and while it has gained some popularity on social media in recent years, if you visit early in the morning and during the week, you might be able to enjoy a relatively crowd-free experience. Get more information about the Karloo walking track here.
Distance: 50-minute drive from Sydney
7. Collins Flat Beach
Collins Flat Beach is one of the best hidden beaches in Sydney and certainly one of the most picturesque natural swimming spots in town. Flanked by bush views and sandstone cliffs, it even has its own private waterfall which is best visited after rainfall. The beach is also home to several natural rockpools, perfect for a refreshing swim. Tucked between North Head and Little Manly Cove, this secluded spot is only accessible on foot. Get more information on the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website.
Distance: 45-minute drive to Collins Beach Road
8. Minerva Pool
Minerva Pool, located in the Dharawal National Park, is a sacred site for the Aboriginal Dharawal People and is open for women and children only. Surrounded by lush bushland and sandstone features, it’s one of the most under-the-radar natural swimming spots in Sydney. The huge wide pool is fed by a small but beautiful waterfall and can be accessed via the Minerva Pool walking track. Get more information here.
Distance: 1-hour drive from Sydney
9. Ivor Rowe Rockpool
This natural, shallow rock pool in Sydney might be one of the smallest but it’s still one of the best hidden gems in the city, with lovely views over the beach. The scenic spot is ideal if you’re looking to cool down on a hot day or a quick, refreshing dip. It’s best accessed through the Bunya Parade in South Coogee. Get more information about it here.
Distance: Less than 30 minutes from Sydney CBD