13 of the best outback pools in Australia worth soaking in

Melissa Mason Melissa Mason
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Travelling in outback Australia often involves lengthy drives in soaring temperatures. What better way to wind down than by plunging yourself into one of the region’s many refreshing swimming spots? 

Whether you prefer a cool dip and trip down memory lane at a nostalgic community pool or soothing aching muscles in warm, spa-like water sourced from Australia’s Great Artesian Basin, the outback swimming pool options may not be endless, but they’re definitely worth seeking out. 

Planning your next Australian road trip based around outback pools and swimming holes is a great way to explore the country. Many of the best baths, gorges and community favourites are either in or directly on the way to the most popular tourist regions.  

It was a tough job but we’ve whittled down the list of our favourite outback pools around Australia to 13 of the best. 

Northern Territory 

1. Longitude 131, Yulara 

If luxury in the outback is what you’re after, Longitude 131 is a must-visit.  

At the most prestigious accommodation in Australia’s Red Centre, you’ll experience Uluru every night from the complete privacy of your own deck. 

a luxurious lodge with an outdoor pool and landscape views on the background
Capture unobstructed scenic views upon dipping in the lodge pool. (Image: Tourism NT/George Apostolidis)

In terms of swimming, the lodge’s pool is architecturally striking and worth lounging at, but it’s the Dune Pavilion that’s worth booking for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.  

You’ll absolutely have seen Instagram pictures of its circular plunge pool, complete with uninterrupted views of the Uluru sunset. 

a bottle of wine on the table beside the lodge pool in Uluru
Sip a glass of wine by the pool. (Image: Tourism NT/Julian Kingma)

2. Mataranka Thermal Pool, Mataranka 

Just off the Stuart Highway you’ll find Mataranka, a small town famous for its thermal waters and swimming holes.  

The Mataranka Thermal Pool is a refreshing stop-off on your way through to the Katherine region with its expansive gorges and waterfalls.  

Start at Mataranka Homestead and take a short 100-metre walk through a canopy of Livistona palms filled with red flying foxes (you’ll either love or hate their deafening squeals and chirps) to the pool.

an aerial shot of a girl floating and two girls sitting on the edge of Mataranka Thermal Pool
Soak in the tranquil waters of the Mataranka Thermal Pool. (Image: Tourism NT/Natalie Sum)

3. Ellery Creek Big Hole 

While it’s not technically a pool, this swimming hole in the West MacDonnell Ranges, just 80 kilometres outside of Alice Springs is filled with water year-round, so it’s a guaranteed good time no matter the season.

Take a float with you and relax on the calm waters, then lounge under gum trees on the sandy shores.

swimming in the calm waters of the Ellery Creek Big Hole between rugged cliffs in Uluru
Rugged cliffs surround the Ellery Creek Big Hole. (Image: Tourism NT/Daniel Tran)

4. Katherine Hot Springs 

Another easily accessible, well-managed natural swimming pool, Katherine Hot Springs gets a mention due to its proximity to town. 

Popular with locals and tourists alike, the regularly maintained pools are warm, surrounded by foliage natural shade and (most importantly) croc-free. 

couple relaxing at Katherine Hot Springs
Dip in the clear waters of Katherine Hot Springs. (Image: Tourism NT/Kyle Hunter & Hayley Anderson)

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Queensland 

5. Cunnamulla Pool, Cunnamulla 

The best community pools in outback Australia are the ones that retain their heritage while meeting modern needs.  

Cunnamulla’s local pool is easily one of the best – originally built in the 1960s, it still has its nostalgic facade and cheap entry prices (a $2 coin is all you’ll need) but offers lush, shaded grassy areas and a pristine 50-metre pool with seven lanes.  

6. Innot Hot Springs, Atherton Tablelands 

If you’re heading out to the Undara Lava Tubes along the Savannah Way in outback Queensland, make sure to stop in at Innot Hot Springs.  

A small leisure park with two man-made pools fed by the spring waters, and a natural creek nearby, this is a perfect place to break up the long drive.

a natural spring the flows into the creek
Drop by the Innot Hot Springs for a relaxing dip.

Western Australia 

7. Python Pool, Millstream Chichester National Park 

At the base of a seasonal waterfall in Millstream Chichester National Park, you’ll find the deep, cooling waters of Python Pool.  

Contrary to its name, you won’t find pythons here (thankfully), but instead a picturesque swimming hole at the base of jagged red rocks.  

Several walking trails lead from the pool, and there is a picnic area and barbecue facilities if you’re planning on spending the day. It’s worth noting that the dry season can lead to algae blooms and the area can be dangerous after rain. 

a girl floating on the calm waters surrounded by jagged rock cliffs
Enjoy some alone time beneath the rugged landscape. (Image: Karratha City Council)

8. Fern Pool, Karijini National Park 

Karijini National Park is a must-do in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, and while there are many beautiful gorges worth visiting for some wild swimming, Fern Pool is one of the most easily accessible and serene swimming holes for a quiet afternoon dip.  

Fed by a natural spring, expect rainforest-like ferns and a cascading waterfall for a real-life relaxation soundtrack. Stay a few nights at Karijini Eco Retreat for easy access to the various gorges and swimming holes in the park. 

a portrait shot of the waterfalls and natural pool in Karijini National Park
A natural spring feeds the waterfall at Jubura (Fern Pool), Karijini National Park. (Image: Tourism WA)

New South Wales 

9. Lightning Ridge Bore Bath, Lightning Ridge 

The Great Artesian Basin runs from the tip of Queensland’s Cape York right down to the middle of New South Wales and South Australia, making it one of the largest underground water resources in the world.  

It has provided water to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for over 60,000 years and continues to do so today.  

The naturally warm waters under Lightning Ridge maintain a 41.5C temperature year-round, making this bore bath a spa-like experience, and one you can enjoy even during the winter months. Facilities include changing rooms and free entry.

woman enjoying a relaxing day in a naturally heated thermal pool at the Artesian Bore Baths, Lightning Ridge
Have a relaxing warm dip in the Artesian Bore Baths. (Image: Destination NSW)

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10. Charles McCarron Baths, Canowindra 

Just outside of the historical centre of Canowindra in the state’s Central West, and with slightly sloped shady spots to set up on your beach towels, this local pool is a lovely place to cool off in summer.  

There are three pools – a main pool, a program pool and a lovely splash pad for the little ones – meaning everyone can enjoy some time in the sun. 

11. Artesian Aquatic Centre, Moree 

Moree is another town right on top of the Great Artesian Basin, so naturally, they’ve utilised those warm waters to fill a state-of-the-art aquatic centre. 

the entrance of Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre
Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre is a private wellness oasis. (Image: Destination NSW)

The kids will love the splash park, with its fountains and cool waters, and for those looking for a reprieve from aching muscles, there are in-water loungers you can settle into with a good book. 

children enjoying the waterpark at Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre
The waterpark caters to children and kids at heart. (Image: Destination NSW)

South Australia 

12. Coward Springs 

Along the famous Oodnadatta Track, you’ll find a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it turnoff for Coward Springs.  

More of a plunge pool than somewhere for laps, it’s well worth the pit stop. For $2, you can relax in a small, wood-edged pool you’ll almost certainly have to yourself, surrounded by palm fronds and rustic wooden panelling.

a mother with her kids enjoying their time together while dipping in a small bore bath
Spend time with your kids while dipping in a small bore bath. (Image: Carly Kruger)

13. Dalhousie Springs 

Way out on the edge of the Simpson Desert within Witjira National Park, you’ll find Dalhousie Springs, a remote series of pools fed by artesian waters.  

There are actually 60 springs, but it’s the main pool that attracts the most attention, given its 38 degrees year-round and visually, looks like a shockingly blue oasis in the middle of outback SA. 

an aerial view of Dalhousie Springs
Dalhousie Springs is filled with hot thermal water. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

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Melissa Mason
Melissa Mason is a freelance journalist who loves road tripping and car snacks. Previously holding Editor roles at ELLE, marie claire, Broadsheet and Pedestrian.TV, she now writes travel and lifestyle content for a wealth of Australian titles like SMH, Mamamia and Urban List, as well as copywriting for international brands. Outside of writing, she loves walks with her dog Ted, a great Sunday afternoon with friends, and op shopping. If she could be anywhere right now it would be lounging on a hammock at a tropical resort with a great romantic fantasy book.
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7 Kimberley experiences that need to be on your bucket list

    Australian Traveller Australian Traveller
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    From thundering waterfalls to ancient Indigenous art, Kimberley’s raw beauty will take your breath away.

    Wild, pristine, and shaped by nature, the Kimberley Coast is one of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes. A remote and rugged frontier that remains a bucket list destination for many travellers. Its most breathtaking attractions – including Montgomery Reef, King George Falls and Horizontal Falls – are accessible only by sea or air, making a guided expedition cruise aboard Silversea’s luxury expedition ship, Silver Cloud, the ideal way to explore it.

    From its intricate intertidal zones to ancient rock art, extreme tides and rare wildlife found nowhere else in Australia – or the world – this journey offers an unparalleled exploration of one of Earth’s last true wildernesses.

    Why Silversea?

    Silversea offers a 10-day expedition departing Broome, or an extended 16-day expedition voyage from Indonesia, including landings on the hidden gems of Palopo Sulawesi and Komodo. Accompanied by expert guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology, guests gain a deeper understanding of the Kimberley’s dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage and extraordinary biodiversity.

    Silversea offers one of the experiential travel industry’s leading crew-to-guest ratios. Along with all-suite accommodation (80 per cent with private verandah), 24-hour butler service, a swimming pool and four dining options. Silver Cloud also has an experienced crew of multilingual expedition guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology to enhance your Kimberley Experience.

    silversea cruise ship pool deck
    Take a dip in the pool deck.

    1. Koolama Bay

    ​​Before visitors see King George Falls, they hear them – a growing rumble in the distance, steady and foreboding as the Zodiac glides through the gorge, the sound echoing off sheer rock formations. At 80 meters tall, the twin cascades carve through the red cliffs, churning the waters below in a spectacular finale – but Koolama Bay holds secrets beyond its striking scenery.

    Named after a ship that beached here following an aerial attack by Japanese bombers in World War II, the bay may seem desolate, yet it teems with life. With Silversea’s expert guides on their 10-day Kimberley itinerary, guests gain a sharper eye for its hidden wonders – rock wallabies darting across the cliffs, crocodiles lurking among dense green mangroves, and high above, the silhouette of a bird of prey circling the sky.

    King George Falls at koolama bay excursion on Silversea Kimberley Cruise
    Take a shore excursion to see King George Falls.

    2. Freshwater Cove / Wijingarra Butt Butt

    Connect with Country on a wet landing at Freshwater Cove, also known as Wijingarra Butt Butt. Considered one of the most special experiences on both the 16-day and 10-day Kimberley cruises, Silversea guests are welcomed by the traditional Indigenous custodians of the land, painted with traditional ochre, and invited to take part in a smoking ceremony.

    Located on the mainland near Montgomery Reef, Wijingarra Butt Butt holds deep cultural significance to the local Indigenous community. Here, rock formations along the shore represent spiritual ancestors, and guests are guided to a nearby rock overhang filled with ancient art, where traditional owners share the stories and meaning behind these sacred paintings.

    welcome to country on freshwater cove during silversea kimberley cruise
    Take part in a smoking ceremony. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

    3. Vansittart Bay (Jar Island)

    Modern history, ancient culture and mystery converge in Vansittart Bay, which is also known as Jar Island. Here, the first thing to catch the eye is the dented, silver fuselage of a World War II-era C-53 plane – a striking relic of the past. Yet, the true cultural treasures lie just a short hike away where two distinct styles of Indigenous rock art – Gwion Gwion and Wandjina – can be found.

    The Wandjina figures, deeply connected to Indigenous traditions, stand in stark contrast to the enigmatic Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) paintings, which date back more than 12,000 years. Significantly different in form and style, the two different styles create a striking juxtaposition, offering a rare glimpse into the region’s rich and complex past.

    aerial view of Vansittart Bay, See it in you Silversea Kimberley Cruise.
    Explore ancient Gwion Gwion rock art at Vansittart Bay. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

    4. Horizontal Falls

    Part illusion, part natural phenomenon, the Kimberley’s much-lauded Horizontal Falls aren’t a waterfall, but a tidal and geographic spectacle that visitors have to see to comprehend. Known as Garaanngaddim, the phenomenon occurs when seawater rushes through two narrow gaps- one just twenty metres wide, and the other seven metres in width, between the escarpments of Talbot Bay.

    With each tidal shift,  the force of the water creates whirlpools, furious currents and the illusion of a horizontal cascade as thousands of gallons of water are pushed and pulled in through the gap every six hours with relentless movement, making this one of the Kimberley’s most mesmerising natural wonders.

    Horizontal Falls are described as "One of the greatest wonders of the natural world". They are formed from a break in-between the McLarty Ranges reaching up to 25m in width. The natural phenomenon is created as seawater builds up faster on one side of the gaps than the other, creating a waterfall up to 5m high on a King tide.
    Watch whirlpools and furious currents collide. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

    5. Montgomery Reef

    As the tide turns in Montgomery Reef, magic happens. With the Kimberley’s legendary tides varying up to ten metres, at low tide the submerged reef almost appears to rise from the depths: exposing up to four metres of the sandstone reef.

    The impact is otherworldly: as the water drains, waterfalls cascade on either side of the channel,  turtles left exposed scramble and dive, and fish leap in search of sanctuary in shallow pools. Meanwhile, the dinner bell rings for the migratory seabirds dugongs, reef sharks and dolphins that scavenge and feast in the area.

    Using zodiacs, guests cruise through one of the world’s most significant inshore reef systems navigated by experienced guides, exploring the most intricate and fascinating parts of a 300-square-kilometre-wide biodiversity hotspot.

    aerial view of boat going along Montgomery Reef
    Witness seabirds, dolphins and reef sharks on the hunt.

    6. Mitchell Falls by Helicopter

    Experiencing the Kimberley by sea allows you to feel the power of the tides, but travelling by helicopter reveals the sandstone tapestry of the Kimberley, a landscape geologists believe is over 1.8 billion years old.

    One of Silversea’s most popular optional excursions, guests who opt to fly into the interior from the onboard helipad soar up above the rust-coloured landscape of the Mitchell plateau, taking in one of Australia’s most scenic waterfalls: Mitchell Falls, a series of four emerald-coloured pools gently cascades into each other, before plunging down to the river below.

    Seeing the landscape from above reveals a landscape weaved and shaped by the power of the freshwater wet season, juxtaposed to the constant lapping of the relentless and powerful tide on the coast.

    aerial view of mitchell falls on silversea helicopter excursion
    See emerald pools cascade into the river below. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

    7. Indigenous Art Caves, Wandjina Art

    The Kimberley Region of Western Australia is home to some of the most striking and significant

    Indigenous rock art in Australia. Dotted throughout the landscape are caves, cliffs and rock overhangs depicting the striking, ethereal image of Wandjina, the rainmaker spirit and creation being central to many of the Dreamtime stories in this region.

    Some of the paintings are regularly repainted by traditional custodians, while others are believed to be over 4,000 years old. Each artwork serves as both a cultural record and a living connection to the past, offering a rare opportunity to engage with the enduring traditions of the Kimberley’s Indigenous communities.

    Freshwater Cover Rock Art the kimberleys
    Walk among cultural records preserved in stone. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

    See the best of this incredible part of the world on a Silversea Kimberley cruise. Book your 10- or extended 16-day expedition voyage at silversea.com

    Best Outback Pools In Australia - Australian Traveller