With an average of 300 days of sunshine a year and just a tiny window of winter (although it certainly feels long), the Gold Coast/Kombumerri Country is a sanctuary for all things outdoorsy. Although our beaches are sublime and our waterfalls are dreamy, it’s our Gold Coast swimming holes and rock pools that are gaining the most recent attention.
I'm a big believer that a float beneath trees where the water muffles the outside world and it's just you and nature is one of life's simple gifts. It's the escape from your inbox's chaos and Messenger pings. It's feeling present and checked out and tuned in all at once. Perhaps it’s the journeys through the lush rainforests or the exhilaration of a cold fresh water dip, whatever the case, I'm all for it.
So, grab your swimmers, jump in the car and chase down my pick of 13 of the Gold Coast’s best swimming holes.
Gold Coast Swimming Holes At A Glance
Easy to access swimming holes
Cougal Cascades
Currumbin Valley QLD 4223
Image Credit: Cougal Cascades | Brooke Darling Photography
If you’ve never driven to the very end of Currumbin Creek Road, you’ve never experienced the blissful scene that is the Cougal Cascades. Sitting at the edge of Springbrook National Park—part of the Gondwana Rainforest of Australia World Heritage Area—the cascades are fringed by a densely tropical walking track, which eventually arrives at the 1940’s Dolan Family sawmill.
Here you'll find shallow swimming holes for the little ones, deep pools that some folks leap from above into, and, of course, the famous Cougal Cascades waterfall slide. The weekends can get a little busy but don’t let that deter you; Cougal Cascades have plenty of swimming space for everyone.
THE DETAILS
- How to get there: For most accurate directions, type 'Eden Health Retreat' into maps, then follow Currumbin Creek Road past it and you'll reach the car park in minutes
- Distance: 1.5 kilometres
- Time: 30 to 40 minutes
- Grade: Easy
- Facilities: Toilets and picnic tables, bring your own water and take rubbish with you
- What to do: Grab a slice of enormous lemon meringue pie, a cuppa and a bite at Pasture & Co., or book in for a post-waterfall soak session at The Bathhouse at Ground.
Currumbin Rock Pools
Currumbin Rock Pools, 1206 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Valley QLD 4223
If you don’t feel like taking the full ride to the end of the road to reach Cougal Cascades, Currumbin Rock Pools can be found a little earlier on the path. Located about 20 minutes from Currumbin, these rock pools boast the lush leafy surrounds and turquoise waters that make Queensland’s swimming holes worth the drive.
If you can swing it, a mid-week jaunt outside of school holidays will give you more luck of an easy car park. Then again, it's just located off the road so compared to other Gold Coast rock pools, its relatively accessible early morning and late afternoon in peak time.
This locale conveniently offers a large picnic site and bathrooms, with a field of grass leading right to the rocky pools. The ever-evolving Currumbin Valley Rock Pool cafe is just across the road if you forgot to pack your own picnic.
THE DETAILS
- How to get there: 1206 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin Valley QLD 4223
- Distance: A few metres - it's located next to the road
- Time: Minutes
- Grade: Easy
- Facilities: Toilets and picnic tables
- What to do: Bring an esky, a picnic and a rug
Cedar Creek Falls
76 Cedar Creek Falls Rd, Tamborine Mountain QLD 4272
Image Credit: Cedar Creek Falls | Brooke Darling Photography
It's no surprise that Tamborine Mountain boasts some of the Gold Coast's best swimming spots. Cedar Creek Falls is one of the Gold Coast's most well-known waterfalls with ample swimming holes, a lookout over the open canyon and trickling waterfalls.
Expect a 30 minute or 1.1km walk down from Thunderbird Park to reach the falls and plan to arrive early as Cedar Creek Falls gets very busy on the weekends. After a substantial soaking in the three pools and some deep pondering at the lookout, I'm a big fan of a drink at Loborn or even a full extra round of soaking at Sol Elements Bathhouse.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: 76 Cedar Creek Falls Road, Mount Tamborine QLD 4272
- Distance: 1 kilometre return
- Time: 30 minutes
- Grade: Easy
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, BBQs
- What to do: Post bush walk sips at Cedar Creek Estate Vineyard
Tallebudgera Creek
Tallebudgera QLD 4228
Image Credit: Tallebudgera Creek | Brooke Darling Photography
Hardly a secret and I'll admit it's not a swimming 'hole', but if idyllic azure waters are more your jam than being tumble-rolled in the breakers, seek out this stunning sandy spit on Tallebudgera Creek. Find a park north or south of the Tallebudgera Creek Bridge and enter the leafy nature walk at the southern end of the Burleigh National Park headland. I'm a big fan of this waveless locale.
From Burleigh Hill side, you'll follow the path for about 300 metres or half way around the point, popping out at a magical beach protected inside the breakwater. Backed by native subtropical rainforest and frequented by the odd bush turkey, Tallebudgera Creek is pure heaven—and even better if you can sneak in a visit mid-week.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: My pick's the quieter Murlong Park
- Distance: Park right next to the creek
- Time: Moments
- Grade: Easy
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables
- What to do: Take a stroll to Custard Canteen or hire a SUP
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Araluen Watering Hole
Harley Smith Reserve, Tallebudgera Valley QLD 4228
A favourite of the Tallebudgera Valley local crew, Araluen Watering Hole is one of the most expansive swimming holes on offer, guaranteed to get you fully submerged without awkward lean or horizontal body pose.
But the real reason this fresh water pool has me squealing for joy? The rope swing. Summer dreams are summed up here. It's so secret, there isn't even a website about it. You'll find Araulen Watering Hole on the corner of Araluen Road and Tallebudgera Creek Road, or a wander through Harley Smith Reserve.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: Cnr Araluen Rd and Tallebudera Creek Rd, Tallebudgera Valley QLD 4228
- Grade: Easy
- Distance: 100m to water
- Facilities: Toilet
- What to do: Induldge in a treatment at Gwinganna
Moderate to access swimming holes
Twin Falls
Springbrook National Park, QLD 4213
Image Credit: Twin Falls | Supplied
What adventure-skewed round up would be complete without a Springbrook mention? Particularly one with a focus on fresh water goodness. Twin Falls is the definition of iconic Gold Coast swimming hole.
If you’ve only seen Springbrook’s Purling Brook Falls from jittery heights, you may feel a little daunted by the thought of a swim in this region. But rest assured, Twin Falls is but a baby in comparison. Embark on the 4km circuit, where you can wander behind the flowing waterfall or go for a dip into the large watering hole under this duo of streams. Take a well-charged phone—this setting is very photogenic.
THE DETAILS
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Where to go: Park at Tallanbana picnic area (if the small car park's full, everyone just parks on the side of the road, easy)
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Grade: Moderate
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Distance: 4.2km
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Time: Allow about 2 hours
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Facilities: Toilets and picnic tables
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Accommodation pick: A spa chalet at Mouses House
Warringa Pool
Springbrook National Park
This less well-known swimming hole is located around 1km from the base of the impressive Purling Brook Falls, but it feels a world way from the often-packed falls track. Descend to the pools where you can dip in or rock hop your way (carefully) up and down the stream. My eyes are glued to shoes every visit here.
The return Warringa Pool track will take you about 3 hours, covering 6km return. If you're feeling really bold, you can continue walking past the Warringa Pools and you'll rejuoin a section of the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: Start at Purling Brook Falls on maps
- Distance: 4-8 kilometres
- Time: 2 hours for the waterfall round trip, 3 hours for the full track
- Grade: Moderate
- Facilities: Toilets and picnic areas
Elabana Falls
Lamington National Park, Main Border Track, O'Reilly QLD 4275
Image Credit: Elabana Falls | Supplied
If you're committed to the waterfall life and enjoy walk before your swim, Elabana Falls is for you. One of the Gold Coast's most photographed watering spots, you'll have to embark on a 3.5km hike (one-way) before you reach this tranquil spot. The small waterfall flows into a stunning rock pool, and you'll be spoiled with plenty of views along the way.
If you're after a shorter route, return the same way rather than doing the full circuit or take the gutsier route home with the Box Forest Circuit’s 10.9 km track or the giant 17.4 km Toolona Creek circuit. A fully stocked snack pack is 100% necessary.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: Type 'Elabana Falls' into maps, the drive here is super scenic
- Grade: Moderate
- How long it'll take: 3.5-10.9km, allow 2-5 hours depending on your track
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, BBQs
- Where to stay: O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat is closeby and the perfect staycay locale (especially if you're taking on the longer treks)
Killen Falls
Tintenbar, Northern NSW
A skip across the border in Tintenbar, Killen Falls really is killin’ it and even has a natural cave for you to check out. This impressive waterfall is perfect for swimming in with its huge natural pool and wild vegetation waving away at you while you frolic.
It's an easy walk to the viewing platform which is a mere 150 metres from the car park, but a rather sketchy trek to the bottom of the waterfall. Prepare for mud and a tight grasp on the hand rail. The car park is tiny, and best suited to little vehicles if I'm being honest. Though if you can make the tricky walk to the falls and shimmy behind it, this makes for a pretty unforgettable experience. Plus, the pool itself is quite shallow so you can get a good wade through the water before getting into the deep.
Killen Falls is very popular so get in early to claim your spot behind the ten-metre waterfall, where you can stretch out and relax with fresh water mist as your own personal sprinkler.
THE DETAILS
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Where to go: Killen Falls
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Grade: Moderate
- How long it'll take: An hour return, or 1km
- Facilities: Nil, BYO all your things
- What's nearby: Prairie Coffee House
Minyon Falls
Minyon Platform Track, Whian Whian, Northern NSW 2480
Located in Nightcap National Park, this waterfall is a must-do if you're visiting the Byron Bay region. Firstly, arrive at the top of the Minyon Falls lookout area and soak up the breathtaking panoramic vista.
Despite it's incredible view, the best is yet to come. You'll want to make your way down to the base of the thundering 100m waterfall where you can swim in the cascades. There are various paths to reach the base of the waterfall. Either take the easier Minyon Grass picnic area walk over 2 hours, or the longer, more difficult Minyon Loop Walking Track which is a 7.5km loop. If you have the option, my tip's to start your walk from Repentance Creek and Minyon Falls Road locale (despite maps telling you to go Dunnon Road or Nightcap Range Road). This way's much more straight forward travel.
THE DETAILS
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Where to go: Minyon Grass Picnic Area
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Grade: Moderate
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How long it'll take: 4.2km for the Minyon Grass trail return, or 8.6km for the lookout to base trail return
- Facilities: Picnic tables, BBQs
- What's nearby: It's 25 minutes from Crystal Castle
- Where to stay: Take your pick from one of the many places to stay in Mullumbimby which is just 30 minutes away
Difficult to access swimming holes
The Gorge
Lake Moogerah, Charlwood, QLD 4309
If you’re looking for a nature escape far from the madding crowd, Lake Moogerah is right up your alley. It's about an hour from the Gold Coast but also a perfect spot to enjoy a quiet camping weekend. Here's where people go to take seriously good photos of the stars – with a cheeky trip to the nearby wineries a must in my opinion – Lake Moogerah is also home to quite a few swimming holes.
Water-fiends can choose between getting their swim on in the lake itself, complete with a designated swimming area designed to keep those pesky boats from interrupting your much-needed paddle time, or head to The Gorge for an under-the-radar swimming hole well worth exploring. Think a pool framed by rocky outcrops, quiet waters and the chance to sit underneath a real-life waterfall.
The climb to the waterfall itself is super steap and rocky, so it's not for the faint hearted. Keep an ear out for the sound of flowing water, go down the path and you'll reach the swimming hole. Also known as the mirage on the horizon as your reward for the solid trek.
For the best way to get here, you'll want to take Boonah-Fassifern Road then turn onto Lake Moogerah Road, take a right onto Charlwood, then Gorge Road. You'll cross private land to the gorge gate, pay a few dollars per person, and access The Gorge. The camp ground crew are a useful source for your visit to get in touch with before your arrival.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: 51 Gorge Rd, Charlwood QLD 4309
- Distance: 6 kilometres
- Grade: Difficult
- Facilities: Nil
- Stay at: Lake Moogerah Camping Ground
- What to do: Visit the Kooroomba Lavender Farm
Lower Portals
Mt Barney QLD 4287
Image Credit: Lower Portals | TEQ
It might be over an hour drive plus a two-hour return walk along a rocky trail to the Lower Portals, but trust me, these crystal clear rock pools are worth it. Plus, the walk has everything from grass trees to red dirt - creek crossings to rocky areas. You'll run out of phone reception, so get comfy with the route before you embark on this one. It's the type of watering hole you'll want to pack water for, food and a can-do 'tude.
Framed on either side by granite boulders, there always seems to be enough cool water for a splash here, which is lucky, because you’ll need it after the hike in. It's one that's best for strong swimmers and I reckon it's also best to avoid if there's been a lot of rain since the rapids get intense.
Not just a stellar spot for a dip, you can also camp nearby, though you will need to score a permit in advance. There are three designated camping spots near the creek and it's one of those quintessential Queensland experiences you'll chat to your mates about for years to come.
THE DETAILS
- Where to go: Lower Portals Carpark
- Grade: Difficult
- Distance: 7.4km return
- Facilities: Nil
- What to do: Sip at the Barney Creek Cellar Door
- Where to stay: Lower Portals Camping Area
Cream Track
End of Tallebudgera Creek Rd, QLD 4228
The track used to go right through to Springbrook, but since it traversed private property that has new owners, it cuts off at about 3.3km in. This used to require a permit, but no longer applies since the private property isn't accessible any more. The steap inclines are some of the Coast's most intense and there are potentially three creek crossings, depending on rainfall.
Views by a banana plantation over Mount Gannon and Tallebudgera mountain are a welcomed rest. the Goomoolahra Picnic Area is a fab pitstop for a bite to each and even a view of the Cougals.
THE DETAILS
Where to go: End of Tallebudgera Creek Rd
Grade: Difficult
Distance: 6.6km return (turn around when you reach the private property)
Facilities: Picnic tables, BBQsm, toilets at Goomoolahra Picnic Area
Looking for more outsdoorsy things to do? Check out:
- The Gold Coast's Best Whale Watching Spots
- The Gold Coast's Best Picnic Spots
- The Gold Coast's Best Coastal Walks
Main image credit: Cougal Cascades | Brooke Darling
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