Best Outback Pools In Australia - Australian Traveller

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)

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)

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)

We round up the luxe, the lovely and the latest places to stay in regional Victoria.

1. Hotel Ernest, Bendigo

Settle into this artful lodging in the city centre for a boutique stay with heritage roots dating back to 1864. Each of the 10 suites in this former bank is elegantly styled and furnished with covetable works by Australian artists. Ernest is also home to the much-lauded Euro-style Restaurant Terrae, so be sure to book into the two-level diner during your visit.

2. Norsu Cabin, Macedon

a look inside Norsu Cabin, Macedon — Settle into this Scandi-inspired abode. (Image: Nick Skinner)

Country cabin dreams come to life under the sweet timber A-frame of Norsu . Sleeping eight guests, this Scandi-inspired abode is so meticulously styled it’s received knowing nods from The Design Files and is everything a modern log cabin should be, including cosy fireplace, fire pit, modern appliances and French linens. Perfect for logging out of daily life for a moment.

3. Islay House, Woodend

the bedroom at Islay House, Woodend — Bed down at the gorgeously restored heritage Islay House. (Image: Tiffany Warner)

Lean all the way into a country luxe state-of-mind with a stay at the gorgeously restored heritage Islay House . This bed and breakfast sleeps up to nine guests and is just a short walk from town, but you’ll want to spend most of your time curled up fireside in the elegantly styled rooms as you admire the collection of antiques.

4. Nerissa Rye, Mornington Peninsula

This Rye beach pad is just a 10-minute walk from 16th Beach, and while a morning walk is lovely, returning to the barefoot luxe vibes of this four-bedroom escape is just as enlivening. Bright, open and welcoming, this is the place to settle in for endless cups of tea and a good book between beach jaunts.

5. Hotel Vera, Ballarat

a close-up of the bed at Hotel Vera, Ballarat — Modern meets bygone elegance.

This Ballarat beauty set in a 1900s mansion is all bygone elegance edged with modern style. Just seven boutique suites, each with its own distinct personality, makes it a singularly luxe stay. Sister to Bendigo’s Hotel Ernest, Vera is similarly bequeathed with a stand-out fine diner, Babae, which plates up the best of the region’s produce.

6. Hotel Sorrento, Port Philip Bay

The historic and iconic clifftop Hotel Sorrento at Port Philip Bay is mid-refurb and will reopen 1 December 2025, just in time for Amalfi-style beachside stays.

7. The Idle Lake House, Lakes Entrance

Enjoy a ripple of serenity when you step aboard this water-top abode on the Gippsland Lakes. Once a Chinese restaurant, this spacious and stylish two-bedroom stay offers unbroken gazing of the shimmering surface in a beautifully private bay. Lounge on the deck and enjoy the onboard bathhouse; come evening, sit by the sleek suspended fireplace.

8. The Monty, Anglesea

the bedroom at The Monty, Anglesea — Bed down at the vintage motel, The Monty.

Palm Springs makes an entrance on the Great Ocean Road with the opening of The Monty in October 2025. Its vintage motel meets modern muse at this playful boutique stay complete with pool and a vibrant Mexican cantina. You’re just a stroll from the beach here, which tells us it’s ripe for summer vacays this season.

9. Trentham Waters Resort, Mildura

vibrant bedroom wall and pillows at Trentham Waters Resort, Mildura — The bright and retro-style bedroom at Trentham Waters Resort.

Another new property lands in regional Victoria in time for an endless summer with Trentham Waters Resort expected to open by February 2026. Breezy, subtly retro and brightened by the big Mallee sky, this river’s-edge escape is perfect for settling in for a spell with one-, two- and three-bedroom villas. There’s a lagoon-style pool, riverside hot tubs and onsite dining for all your relaxation requirements.

10. Crowne Plaza, Geelong

the Trattoria Bar in Crowne Plaza, Geelong — Sink a cold one at the Trattoria Bar.

Geelong is getting its own Crowne Plaza in 2026. Its arrival on the waterfront will make it the city’s largest (and newest) hotel with 200 contemporary rooms and suites, a Skybar, all-day dining, indoor pool and gym, and event spaces. Keep it on your radar.

11. Re’em, Yarra Valley

a private tub with lush views at Re’em, Yarra Valley — Sip and soak in tranquillity.

With verdant Yarra Valley views that take in the linear beauty of tended grapevines, the 16 suites and rooms at Re’em are set amid the Helen & Joey Estate and invite sipping and sitting in tranquillity. The onsite restaurant deftly balances Chinese and Australian flavours and if you’re staying over the weekend, be tempted out of your stylish room for yum cha that features delicate handmade dumplings and vineyard vistas.

12. Arapiles Clubhouse and Crash Pad, Grampians

the yard front door of Arapiles Clubhouse and Crash Pad, Grampians — Spend an overnight stay in the Natimuk stone house. (Image: Bianca Jackson)

These 1880-era mountain-adjacent digs have been tenderly restored to provide rock climbers and Grampians country wanderers a chic place to rest. You’ll find four bedrooms in the Natimuk stone house, as well as a heated pool out the back and plenty of luxe embellishments. There’s also a two-person ‘Crash Pad’ in the confines of the Clubhouse with its own separate entrance.

the lounge at Arapiles Clubhouse and Crash Pad, Grampians — The Crash Pad offers a resting place for rock climbers and Grampians country wanderers. (Image: Bianca Jackson)

13 of the best outback pools in Australia worth soaking in