Ready to dive in? New South Wales offers endless ways to cool off in nature's most beautiful settings. From sparkling ocean pools and secret waterfalls to natural springs, NSW is brimming with swim spots to refresh or explore your adventurous side. 

Whether you're chasing coastal charm or inland tranquility, pack your swimmers, grab your sunscreen and explore these stunning NSW swim spots to make your summer unforgettable. 

Coastal Classics and Ocean Pools  

More than 100 ocean pools sparkle along the NSW coast, offering special swimming spots and picturesque stops on coastal road trips. Start your summer by the sea at Bogey Hole in Newcastle, NSW's oldest rock pool hand-carved out of the rock platform in 1819. This heritage-listed gem offers dramatic views and a refreshing dip. 

If you're in the Sawtell and ECO-certified destination  Coffs Coast area, the Sawtell Memorial Rockpool is a beautiful spot with its natural rock bar edge and prime position tucked into the headland. 

For another showstopping ocean pool experience, head to the Blowhole Point Ocean Pool in Kiama. This family-friendly pool sits right by the famous Kiama Blowhole, offering calm waters and amazing coastal views – the perfect place to cool off after exploring one of NSW's iconic attractions. 

Or go further south to the Sapphire Coast to visit the spectacular Bermagui Blue Pool, a natural rock pool with turquoise waters and sweeping coastal vistas. It's ideal for a sunrise swim or family day out. 

Waterfalls and Natural Pools

Trade the beach for the bush and relax in some of NSW's spectacular waterfalls. 

In the Southern Highlands, cool off in the natural pools at Bargo State Conservation Area, where swimming spots at Little River and Moore Creek offer refreshing bushland escapes. 

Or head to the ECO-certified destination Blue Mountains,  where you can visit Blue Pool in Glenbrook (check conditions with the National Parks Information Centre at the Glenbrook Park Entrance before swimming) or the Victoria Falls waterhole for serene swimming spots.

Further north, Unicorn Falls in the Tweed region is a hidden gem with a serene swimming hole, perfect for those looking for off-the-beaten-path beauty. 

Inland Escapes

For something truly unique, head inland for thermal pools and hidden swim spots surrounded by rugged bush and epic scenery. 

Explore Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool in Kosciuszko National Park, a 27-degree pool which is a year-round favourite fed by a natural spring. Views don't get better than this in the Snowy Mountains, swimming surrounded by alpine scenery and limestone caves. 

Or visit Sofala near Bathurst and try your luck panning for gold dust in the Turon River - and if fortune doesn't strike, you can still enjoy fishing and swimming in its cool waters. 

Note: follow this helpful advice to ensure you stay safe and well during your visit to New South Wales:

Travel information: Health & safety | Visit NSW

Waterfall safety | NSW National Parks

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