Plunge Into Brisbane's Best Swimming Spots

When the mercury rises, find instant cool at the most glorious Brisbane swimming spots.

Boasting blue skies all year round, it’s rarely the wrong time to take a dip in Brisbane. But once you’ve ticked off the city’s best beaches, it’s time to discover the ultimate Brisbane swimming spots. From Olympic-style lap pools and heritage baths to secret swimming holes and luxe hotel pools, here are the most enticing bodies of water to help you take the plunge.

1. Spring Hill Baths

Dip your toe into a bygone era at Spring Hill Baths – the oldest of their kind in the southern hemisphere. This Heritage-listed facility built in 1886 exudes old-world charm from its classic Victorian-era change rooms and grandstand seating. The 25-metre indoor pool offers everything from lap swimming to swimming lessons and aqua aerobics classes.

Address: 14 Torrington Street, Spring Hill

2. Streets Beach

One of our favourite ways to cool down when temps soar, Streets Beach at South Bank offers easy access reprieve. One of the best things to do in Brisbane, is visit this man-made inner-city spot that provides real sand, leafy shade and water views out over the Brisbane River. There are also cute creeks to explore with the kids as lifeguards patrol every day of the week.

a couple walking down to Streets Beach, South Bank — Cool down at Streets Beach, South Bank. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Address: Stanley Street Plaza, South Brisbane

3. Enoggera Reservoir

The oldest reservoir in this city is the beautiful Enoggera Reservoir which is open for recreational use. Here, the entire family can enjoy a swim in calm waters, relax on BYO inflatables or even chase adventure if you’ve got a SUP board or kayak in tow.

Address: 60 Mt Nebo Road, The Gap

4. Chermside Aquatic Centre

This family-friendly water activity facility has it all. As Brisbane’s largest waterpark, Chermside Aquatic Centre features more than 200 metres of twisty water slides and a wading lagoon pool, as well as an outdoor 25-metre lap pool and indoor heated hydro pool, making it a dream day out with the littlies.

the waterpark at Chermside Aquatic Centre, Brisbane — Chermside Aquatic Centre is Brisbane’s largest waterpark.

Address: 375 Hamilton Road, Chermside

5. The Calile Hotel Pool Deck

You’ll need to be staying at The Calile , one of the world’s most exceptional hotels, to access its showstopping Pool Deck so if you are, dedicate serious time to it. The Miami poolside vibes swing all day long with palm trees, cabanas, and pool service setting an ultra-glamorous scene. Technically a lap pool, dedicated to the travelling fitness conscious, this Brisbane swimming spot is full of action—but we highly advise you experience it while sitting back, doing a whole lot of nothing.

Calile Swimming Pool — Soak up Miami poolside vibes at The Calile Hotel Pool Deck.

Address: 48 James Street, Fortitude Valley

6. Centenary Aquatic Centre

As well as the usual family-friendly aquatic centre facilities, what makes Centenary Aquatic Centre stand out is its multi-tiered diving platform. Operating at three, five, and 10 metres, you’re invited to finesse your tuck and spins between trips to the on-site cafe, the heated pool, the dedicated kids’ pool and the 50-metre lap pool.

Address: 400 Gregory Terrace, Brisbane

7. UQ Sport Aquatic Centre

Along the Brisbane River, the UQ Sport Aquatic Centre boasts three heated pools: a 50-metre Olympic-sized outdoor pool, a 25-metre pool, and a Program Pool used for learn-to-swim lessons and infant swimming. There’s also deck-side bleacher seating and landscaped grassed areas for you to spread a picnic out over.

Address: The University of Queensland, Corner Blair Drive and Union Road, St Lucia

8. Wynnum Wading Pool

Since its opening in 1932, the family-friendly Wynnum Wading Pool has become a much-loved Brisbane swimming spot.

the Wynnum Wading Pool in Brisbane — Wynnum Wading Pool is a great swimming spot for families. (Image: Brisbane City Council)

At high tide, the large 128 x 54-metre pool fills with seawater while mesh covers the pipes to keep the marine life out.

the playground at the Wynnum Wading Pool, Brisbane — The family-friendly Wynnum Wading Pool is love by locals. (Image: Brisbane City Council)

With a waterslide, adjacent playground, and picnic areas, it’s the ideal paddle spot for little ones and arguably safer than the ocean.

Address: The Esplanade, Wynnum

9. Settlement Cove Lagoon

After undergoing a mini facelift in winter 2024, Redcliffe’s best swimming spot is back, better than ever.

an aerial view of Settlement Cove Lagoon — Settlement Cove Lagoon is a paradise overlooking Moreton Bay. (Image: Kara Hamilton)

Settlement Cove Lagoon is a man-made haven for families, surrounded by palm trees and overlooking Moreton Bay, just an hour’s drive from central Brisbane.

kids swimming at Settlement Cove Lagoon — Take your kids to Settlement Cove Lagoon for a soothing dip. (Image: Kara Hamilton)

While the nearby Shorncliffe and Suttons Beaches tend to hog the Brisbane swimming spotlight, this delightful lagoon offers top-notch amenities, lifeguards, a kids’ playground and barbecue areas.

the Settlement Cove Lagoon overlooking Moreton Bay — The lagoon is just an hour’s drive from central Brisbane. (Image: Kara Hamilton)

Address: Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe

10. Cedar Creek

No need to stray too far from the city limits to chase waterfalls. Not to be confused with Cedar Creek on the Gold Coast, this Cedar Creek is just a few clicks northwest of Brisbane and primed for a paddle and a picnic – especially after a decent downpour. Dotted with rock pools of varying depths, it rewards the more sure-footed with trickling falls further upstream, creating one of Brisbane’s best spots to spy waterfalls. To get there, pop Andy Williams Park into Maps.

a couple swimming at Cedar Creek, Samford — Cedar Creek has rock pools of varying depths. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Address: Andy Williams Park, 744 Cedar Creek Road, Samford

11. Hotel X Rooftop Pool

Grab a sun lounge and a non-negotiable warm weather cocktail while perched beside the rooftop pool at the sleek Hotel X .

the Hotel X Rooftop Pool Brisbane from above — The sleek Hotel X Rooftop Pool offers sweeping city views. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Offering sweeping city views (you can see the Story Bridge from up there), it’s a picture-perfect backdrop to your ultimate hotel pool life. When hunger strikes, grab a feed from Iris Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, conveniently located a few steps away from the central sun-soaking action.

Address: 458 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley

12. Lake Moogerah

About 1.5 hours’ drive south of Brisbane in the heart of the Scenic Rim within Moogerah Peaks National Park sits Lake Moogerah – a popular base for all sorts of aquatic sports. This hidden gem holds its own secret: a rocky gorge that doubles as a private 200-metre-long swimming hole around 1.5 metres deep. You can get there via hike or boat.

two people sitting on a kayak at Lake Moogerah at sunset — Lake Moogerah enchants at sunset.

Address: Moogerah Peaks National Park, Moogerah

13. Emporium Hotel South Bank

Overlooking the South Bank Parklands and Brisbane River, the 23-metre infinity-edge rooftop pool at Emporium Hotel will make you feel like you’re a world away.

a woman at the edge of the pool at Emporium Hotel South Bank — Emporium Hotel South Bank overlooks the Brisbane River. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Bask in the city’s subtropical climate and soak up the distinctive rooftop atmosphere before turning your attention to the rooftop bar, one of Brisbane’s finest rooftop destinations.

the infinity pool at dusk, Emporium Hotel South Bank — Spend an epic weekend away at Emporium Hotel South Bank. (Image: David Kelly)

Address: 267 Grey Street, South Brisbane

14. The Valley Pool

If there was an award for the best lap pool atmosphere at a Brisbane swimming spot, it’d go to The Valley Pool . The 50-metre outdoor pool with grandstands runs all sorts of aquatic classes and activities. Arguably best of all is its on-site bar and palm tree-dotted views. Serving up local beers and quality wine, plus cocktails, it’s an underrated inner-city sanctuary.

the outdoor lap pool at The Valley Pool — The Valley Pool is renowned for its 50-metre outdoor pool.

Address: 432 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley

15. Soleil Pool Bar at Rydges South Bank Brisbane

You could be forgiven for thinking you were in LA when you arrive at the Soleil Pool Bar at Rydges South Bank .

friends enjoying drinks under a huge red umbrella at Soleil Pool Bar at Rydges South Bank Brisbane — Drink by the pool at Soleil Pool Bar. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The Brisbane swimming hot spot is all timber blended with a gold and white palette, and DJs spin their magic to create a thumping pool party vibe. There’s also a giant LED screen embedded into the ceiling and a snack menu filled with refined tapas plates.

Address: 9 Glenelg Street, South Brisbane

16. Bunya Crossing Reserve

An idyllic Brisbane swimming spot just 45 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD, Bunya Crossing Reserve is family-friendly and endlessly charming. Dog-friendly, too, and beautifully spacious, the slice of heaven features still waters so expect to see kayaks, SUP boards and canoes bobbing along next to you. It’s located along the soothing South Pine River which passes through the Samford Valley.

a couple sitting next to a dog at Bunya River — Hit pause at this idyllic Brisbane swimming spot. (Image: Visit Moreton Bay Region)

Address: 89 Dugandan Road, Bunya

17. Stony Creek

Tackle the 1.5 hours’ drive north of Brisbane to uncover Stony Creek, a stunning natural rock pool located at the southern end of Bellthorpe National Park . Enveloped in lush bushland to ensure you feel a million miles away from civilisation, the Brisbane swimming spot is flanked by large flat rocks to help you spread out as you soak up the serenity.

Address: Bellthorpe National Park, Bellthorpe

18. Emily Seebohm Aquatic Centre

Paying tribute to the queen of the Olympic pool, the Emily Seebohm Aquatic Centre is a beloved Brisbane swimming spot located on the city’s northside. Cool off in your choice of the 25-metre outdoor lap pool that’s heated during the winter months or the 25-metre indoor heated lap pool. Dry off sprawled across the centre’s grassy area or take a table in the shade. It’s a hit with families when summer rolls in.

Address: 523 Telegraph Road, Fitzgibbon

19. WET Deck at W Brisbane

Don’t you hate it when the hotel pool shuts as it gets dark? You can avoid that bummer at the WET Deck , a rooftop pool and entertainment area inside W Brisbane .

the swimming pool at WET Deck at W Brisbane — Swim in style at the WET Deck. (Image: W Brisbane)

Open right around the clock every night of the week, the Brisbane swimming spot welcomes non-hotel guests, making it even more appealing. And while the pool itself is covered, the lounges and dining tables that skirt the deck’s crowning glory are al fresco and pure fabulous in signature W Hotel style.

view of Brisbane River and South Bank buildings from the WET Deck at W Brisbane — While away the afternoon at the WET Deck terrace.

Address: 81 North Quay, Brisbane

20. Yeronga Park Swimming Complex

Home to four individual pools, the Yeronga Park Swimming Complex caters to all sorts of swimmers including ankle biters who just want to splash their parents. Choose from a 50-metre heated outdoor lap pool, a 25-metre heated outdoor lap pool, an indoor one that hosts learn-to-swim programs, and a kid-friendly recreational area fitted with fountains to bring out the child in everyone.

a person standing at the outdoor lap pool of Yeronga Park Swimming Complex, Brisbane — Swim a few laps at the 25-metre outdoor pool within the Yeronga Park Swimming Complex.

Address: 55 School Road, Yeronga

21. The Pool Terrace at Hyatt Regency Brisbane

Set on a glorious rooftop terrace lies a killer outdoor pool begging to be partied upon.

Grab a cocktail and float at the infinity end of Hyatt Regency Brisbane ’s swimmable superstar as the hum of the city down below sets an all-day buzzy scene.

an empty chair at The Pool Terrace at Hyatt Regency Brisbane — Soak up the city views at The Pool Terrace at Hyatt Regency Brisbane. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Address: 33 Burnett Lane, Brisbane

Discover the best things to do in Brisbane.

Under wide-open outback skies, discover a fossicking gem that’s managed to slip under the radar.

While the name Clermont may feel new to even the most intrepid traveller, its gilded history stretches back centuries. You’ll find it just off the highway, humming quietly under the hazy veil of Queensland’s outback sun. It’s here, hemmed in by mountains and perched atop soil heavy with the earth’s treasures, that one of Australia’s most accessible outback adventures awaits.

Thanks to deposits of gold, copper and gemstones – souvenirs left by exploding supernovas and the heave of tectonic plates – Clermont became a centre point of Queensland’s Gold Rush. And now? Australia’s fossicking capital is yours to discover.

Getting there

car driving along Capricorn Way in queensland — Take a drive through Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. (Image: Sean Scott/ TEQ)

You’ll find Clermont in Queensland’s Mackay Isaac region. To get here, it’s an easy three-hour drive over sealed roads from Mackay. Or, if you’re heading from the Sapphire Fields of Emerald, the drive will carve out just over an hour from your day.

Whether you’re road-tripping through outback Queensland or just tracing your way through all that Australia has to offer, Clermont is remote but easily accessible.

Best accommodation in Clermont

Theresa CreekDam in clermont — Camp by Theresa Creek Dam. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

All accommodation comes with a generous helping of country hospitality here. The choice is yours between modern hotels, parking up the camper or pitching a tent.

Theresa Creek Dam lies just outside town. Begin each day with crisp country air and bright outback sunrises. Spend the night under the sparkling country stars and your days out on the dam fishing or kayaking. Even if you aren’t camping, be sure to save space in your itinerary for an afternoon on the red dirt shore.

To stay closer to town, opt for a central hotel to base yourself between exploring and fossicking, like Smart Stayzzz Inn and Clermont Country Motor Inn .

Things to do in Clermont

three people on a tour with Golden Prospecting — Join a tour with Golden Prospecting.

One does not visit Clermont without trying their hand at fossicking. There are strict rules when it comes to fossicking, so stick to areas dedicated for general permission and make sure you obtain your license beforehand. Try your luck at McMasters , Four Mile , Town Desert, McDonald Flat and Flat Diggings . To increase your odds, sign on for a tour with the expert team at Golden Prospecting . They’ll give you access to exclusive plots and expert advice along the way.

Once you’ve tried your luck on the gold fields, head to the Clermont Township and Historical Museum . Each exhibit works like an archaeologist’s brush to dust away the layers of Clermont’s history. Like the steam engine that painstakingly relocated the entire town inch by inch to higher ground after it was decimated by flooding in 1916. See the tools that helped build the Blair Athol mine, historic fire engines, shearing sheds and all sorts of relics that make up Clermont’s story.

The historic Copperfield Chimney offers a change of pace. Legend has it that fossickers found a solid wall of copper here, over three metres high, kick-starting Queensland’s first-ever copper mine.

Bush Heli Services flying over clermont queensland — See Clermont from above with Bush Heli Services. (Image: Riptide Creative/ TEQ)

For hiking, nearby Dysart is the best place to access Peak Range National Park. Here, mountainous horizons stretch across the outback as if plucked from another world. Set off for a scenic drive along the Peak Downs Highway for access to countless geological wonders. Like the slanting rockface of Wolfang Peak. Summit it, and you’ll find yourself looking out across a scene surely conjured up by Banjo Paterson. Dry scrub dancing in the warm breeze, grazing cattle, eucalypts and the gentle creak of windmills. Don’t miss visiting Gemini Peaks, either, for one of the park’s best vistas, and a blanket of wild flowers after rain.

Then, take to the skies with a scenic helicopter tour with Bush Heli-Services . Shift your perspective and cruise above all the sights from your trip. Spots like Lords Table Mountain and Campbell’s Peak are best viewed from the skies.

Before you head home, be sure to explore the neighbouring townships. Spend a lazy afternoon in the shade of Nebo Hotel’s wrap-around verandahs . The hotel’s 1900s dance hall has since been replaced with one of the area’s biggest rodeo arenas, so consider timing your trip to line up with a boot scootin’ rodeo. Or, stop by a ghost town. Mount Britton was once a thriving town during the 1880s Gold Rush. It’s been totally abandoned and now lies untouched, a perfect relic of the Gold Rush.

Best restaurants and cafes in Clermont

meal at Commercial Hotel — Stop into the Commercial Hotel Clermont.

Days spent fossicking, bushwalking and cramming on history call for excellent coffee and hearty country meals. Luckily, Clermont delivers in spades.

Lotta Lattes Cafe is beloved by locals for a reason. Start your days here for the best caffeine fix in town and an impeccable brunch menu.

For a real country meal, an icy cold beer and that famed country hospitality, head straight to the town’s iconic hotel: the Commercial Hotel (known endearingly to locals as ‘The Commie’). It’s been a staple in Clermont since 1877. The hotel even survived the flood of 1916 when it was sawn in two and moved to higher ground.

Naturally, time spent in the outback must include calling into the local bakery. For delicious pies and a tantalising array of sweet treats, make Bluemac Bakehouse your go-to while in town.

Discover more of The Mackay Isaac region, and start planning your trip at mackayisaac.com.

Every beautiful Brisbane swimming spot to cool off at