As we enter the dog days of the Australian summer, the prospect of a cooling dip in a natural swimming spot sounds ever more appealing. And if you can pair that swim with the power and majesty of an NSW waterfall, even better. We’re more than blessed with an array of beautiful waterfalls with swimming spots around the state, so we’ve picked out a few of our favourites to visit!
1. Woy Woy
A natural infinity pool that’s become a smash-hit on social media, Woy Woy waterfall is a hidden and photogenic spot located in the Brisbane Water National Park on the New South Wales central coast. You’ll need to navigate through a series of trails and a creek to find the waterfall and its infinity pool, and whilst the journey is mostly flat, caution should be exercised in slippery conditions. Still, it promises a rewarding experience for those looking to explore one of NSW’s more adventurous waterfalls with swimming available. Read all about the Woy Woy waterfall and infinity pool here.
2. Dangar Falls
Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Dorrigo Plateau in NSW’s New England region lies a treasure trove of natural beauty, with its crown jewel being the spectacular waterfalls, particularly the majestic Dangar Falls. Fed by the Bielsdown River and swollen by regular rains, these falls offer not just a feast for the eyes but a refreshing dip in a secluded swimming hole. With easy access, a nearby car park, and a short walk to breathtaking views, Dangar Falls is a must-visit. See more here.
Nearby Crystal Shower Falls is also gorgeous, although you’re not allowed to swim here due to the shallow waters.
3. Minyon Falls
One hundred metres tall, Minyon Falls is one hell of a sight to behold. You’ll find it in the Whian Whian State Conservation Area, about an hour inland from Byron Bay. Though the Minyon Falls lookout is understandably popular with visitors thanks to the sweeping views of the rainforest (on a clear day, you might be able to see all the way to the coast), more adventurous types know to take the Minyon Falls walking track to the base of the falls. From here, a short scramble over the rocks takes you to the cool waters of the pool, fed by those incredible falls. There’s a bit of a fine balance to strike here; the pool is best enjoyed after rainfall, but too much rain makes the final section unsafe – and neighbouring Nightcap National Park is officially the rainiest place in NSW – so pick your visit with care.
4. Nellies Glen
Escape the city buzz and dive into the serene embrace of Nellies Glen, a hidden oasis just a stone’s throw from Sydney. Nestled in the Southern Highlands, a scenic 2-hour drive from Sydney or a quick zip from Wollongong, this enchanting swimming hole and waterfall combo is the summer retreat of your dreams. With bushland panoramas and a picnic spot to boot, it’s the ideal chill-out zone after wandering the Carrington Falls track. The pool’s more paddle than plunge, but a splash in the gentle waters, a selfie in the cave, and a birdwatching session makes for a lovely day out. Post-rainfall, the magic really comes alive, so grab your swimmers and make a splash at Nellies Glen. More here.
5. Minnehaha Falls
Not to be confused with their namesake in Minneapolis, USA, Australia’s Minnehaha Falls are found just outside of Katoomba in the Blue Mountains. The clear, cold pool is a welcome treat on a hot day, especially after you’ve scrambled down the steep sections at the end of the otherwise fairly gentle walk (it’s around 2.6km there and back again). As one of the better-known and most accessible waterfalls with swimming spots in the state, expect it to be fairly popular in summer, but as we edge into autumn, it’s a beautiful spot for cold water swimming.