The Iglu Guide | Blog
Best Aussie swim spots for summer
With over 25,000 km of stunning coastline, one thing is for certain – you’ll never be short of places to swim in Australia. But with over 10,000 beaches connecting this glorious landscape, there simply isn’t enough time to see them all.
So, the Iglu team have reluctantly done the hard yards for you and picked out the cream of the aquatic crop across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Grab your fins, slap on the sunscreen and pull on your swimmers – with overseas travel off the table this summer, it’s time to discover exactly what this country does best!
Sydney swim spots
Reef Beach, Balgowlah Heights | View on Google Maps
For endless sets of sublime coastlines head on out to the legendary Northern Beaches – but cleverly avoid the crowds that swarm off the iconic Manly Ferry. Instead, sneak over to Reef Beach and enjoy a dip in the Sydney Harbour National Park – as well as incredible harbour views and historically significant Aboriginal carvings that peek out at low tide. This is Sydney swimming at its very finest.
Top tip: Reef Beach is located along the Manly-Spit walkway and is best enjoyed on weekdays. Perfect for when you need to have a study break day!
Milk Beach, Vaucluse | View on Google Maps
Just at the end of a wooden pathway in Vaucluse lies the perfect summer swim retreat, the ideal spot to lie back and while away those balmy days. Complete with dreamy city views you’ll be one of just a secret few who know about this super hush-hush spot. Admire the skyline while the gentle waves lap your toes – and always observe the code of secrecy when you leave.
Top tip: This beach, like many on our list, is not lifeguarded so make sure you are a confident swimmer, or stay waist deep in the water for complete safety.
Fairy Bower Pool, Manly | View on Google Maps
Adorning the Manly-Shelly pathway since 1929, this absolute beauty combines peace and solitude with an infusion of that coveted Manly vibe. Protected from the ocean waves but with a full majestic view of Cabbage Tree Bay, this spot complete with protective Sea Nymphs is an Insta favourite with locals and tourists alike.
Top tip: Visit during the week when it is surprisingly quiet, and avoid the weekend tourist influx. Bring your books along and enjoy the serenity as you bask by the ocean side.
McIver’s Ladies Baths, Coogee | View on Google Maps
For those that like a little privacy when they paddle, this Coogee cliff-side swim retreat is a location like no other. Exclusively for women and children, it’s the perfect place to go for a swim when you’re on your own. Float about peacefully as the waves wash in, or bust out some laps under the cool gaze of Coogee Beach and beyond.
Top tip: Ladies, don’t forget your $2 entry fee! We also recommend you check their website for the latest opening hours.
Melbourne swim spots
Half Moon Bay, Black Rock | View on Google Maps
When Victorian travel restrictions are lifted, we’ll be leaving the city stresses behind and heading straight to Half Moon Bay. Transport yourself back in time as you lean back on the sand and gaze over the calm waters to the shipwrecked HMVS Cerberus. Offering a perfect crescent shape, this beach sits surrounded by cliff tops and is considered one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches. With sailing options aplenty as well as nearby fish ‘n chips, what’s not to love?
Top tip: The water deepens quite quickly so make sure you stick to the shallower southern end if you are not a confident swimmer.
Pound Bend, Warrandyte National Park | View on Google Maps
Melbourne has an abundance of beautiful waters to dip into – whether it be salty or fresh, beachside or bush. But why squish in with the masses at St Kilda when you can refresh yourself at this naturally occurring swim-spa just one hour from the CBD? Enjoy the water tension that occurs as a natural reaction to the man-made tunnel once constructed to change the course of the river.
Top tip: Don’t swim for 48hr after rainfall as the water may be contaminated.
Brunswick Baths, Melbourne | View on Google Maps
If you’re not up for travelling but desperate for a plunge, try out Brunswick Baths for that quintessential vintage-modern Aussie mash up. Fortunately the vintage part is restricted solely to the 1913-designed exterior, and the inside is now thoroughly modernised. Choose between the 50m outdoor pool or the 20m indoor pool, both conveniently heated for those days when the sun hasn’t really come to the party.
Top tip: Catch a tram directly from the CBD and be there within 25 minutes.
Brisbane swim spots
Suttons Beach, Redcliffe | View on Google Maps
Just 30 km north of Brisbane sits the most peaceful stretch of sand you could ask for in such proximity to the city centre. Regularly patrolled, Suttons Beach is perfect for safe swimming with gentle waves just waiting to be experienced. If you get restless on the beach, stretch your legs out on the scenic pathway that will take you past the eerie Gayundah wreck at the base of Woody Point Cliffs.
Top tip: Feeling peckish? Head to Suttons Beach Pavilion for eats and treats art deco style as you gaze out across the stunning Moreton Bay.
Twin Falls, Springbrook National Park | View on Google Maps
When something is just so good, why not double the fun. Less than an hour’s journey time out of Brisbane, this 4km circuit will take you into the heart of the rainforest with spectacular scenery all the way. Approach from behind the two waterfalls and cool off in the beautiful rock pool below. Pure bliss.
Top tip: Pack plenty of water for the hike and be prepared for some steep segments.
Bunya Crossing Reserve, Albany Creek | View on Google Maps
A super convenient 25 minutes from the CBD, this is one place you will want to get to when that summer sun hits hardest. Nestled along the South Pine River, this peaceful waterhole is witness to a range of activities from kayaking, swimming, paddle boarding or simply relaxing. Bring your books, pack a cozzie, lie back and enjoy the sounds of native Australia as they wash over you.
Top tip: The reserve car park is situated really close to the river if you have equipment that needs unloading.
Looking for more spots to swim?
Check out our pick of the best beaches in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.
Photo by Erik Dungan on unsplash.com
