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

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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

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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.

From poolside bites and tasting flights to seafood plates and dry-aged steaks, a foodie adventure on Hamilton Island is worth every bite.

Hamilton Island’s sun-lacquered shores have long magnetised travellers craving an escape from reality. But what’s less expected – and more interesting – is just how assuredly this Whitsundays idyll delivers on the culinary front. Dialling up the flavour as much as the barefoot allure, the Hamilton Island food scene offers world-class dining and drinking options, spanning slick fine-dining moments to just-caught seafood served within sight of the sea. Let’s dig in.

Catseye Pool Club

Framing the electric blues of Catseye Beach from The Sundays hotel, Catseye Pool Club is Hamilton Island’s latest culinary prodigy. Shown to our table, we thread through rattan chairs, Zellige tiles and tumbling greenery that opens up to Coral Sea shimmer.

The poolside restaurant is the brainchild of Sydney-based chef duo Josh and Julie Niland, who have brought their relaxed yet elevated dining ethos north. The menu – designed to bring people together – is made for sharing, each hero ingredient orbited by a palette of sides to mix, match and layer as you please.

My thyme cocktail – woody with scotch, lifted by lime leaf – pairs perfectly with the charcoal grilled prawns entree, which is served with tumeric and lemongrass marinade, macadamia satay sauce and a thai-leaning sour green mango salad. Each forkful lands differently, but all are a delight. Then comes the coral trout. True to Josh Niland’s ‘scale-to-tail’ philosophy, the fish is presented whole in a theatrical crescent, a tiny fork stuck into its cheek in a nod to Niland’s declared prize cut. Ribbons of zucchini resembling gauzy curtains bring brightness and snap, while kasundi lends depth and warmth. It’s tongue-tantalising, special occasion dining with humanity.

Sails Restaurant

A more casual poolside dining scene awaits at nearby Sails Restaurant, where Eastern Mediterranean flavours are dished up with an island twist. Chermoula chicken skewers and barramundi souvlaki lie on the more filling side of the menu, while the sumac squid and stone-bread flatbread with za’atar – arriving alongside pomegranate molasses, beetroot hummus and crushed macadamias – are perfect light bites after a dip in the pool. And don’t miss the garlic lemon scallops.

The setting is equally part of the draw. Sunlight floods the high-ceilinged dining room, while outdoor tables look out across the glittering expanse of Catseye Beach. Holidaymakers in oversized sunglasses sip spritzes beneath umbrellas, the gentle clink of plates mixing with splashes from the adjacent pool. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to linger long after lunch.

Bommie

Tucked into a sleek curved wing of the Hamilton Island Yacht Club, Bommie delivers experiential fine dining with a sense of occasion. Led by award-winning Executive Chef Ryan Locke, the seasonal menu champions local and native Australian ingredients whipped up into a modern display of creative precision.

Inside the dim-lit dining room, guests can choose between the Tasting Menu or Chef’s Signature Degustation. Sourdough with pine oil sets the tone for the six-course tasting menu, beautifully presented in a bed of pine needles alongside smoked paperbark butter. I love how the squid ink choux pastry is served with flavour-popping native finger lime, which our waiter encourages us to eat caviar-style. Standout moments continue with the wattle-seed-crusted venison elevated by red fruit and pickled beetroot swirls; the meat is perfectly pink in the middle and an homage to the island’s history as a deer farm.

Pebble Beach

Exclusive to qualia Resort guests for lunch and dinner, Pebble Beach is Hamilton Island’s most serene expression of seasonal island dining. Ocean-facing chairs dot a timber deck that spills straight onto the resort’s private beach, while crystalline turquoise waters stretch to meet distant islands – a scene far prettier than any postcard could capture.

The recently refreshed menu doubles down on seasonality and bright, layered flavours. While the more substantial T-bone steak with hazelnut honey carrots tempts, we go lighter: Coffin Bay oysters with Champagne foam and keffir lime dust kick us off splendidly, followed by Byron Bay burrata served with balsamic and caramelised figs. The fennel and orange salad topped with succulent grilled chicken is utterly delectable, but it’s the zingy, oh-so-fresh soft shell fish tacos that I can’t stop thinking about. It all goes down a treat with a glass of delicate Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne.

Beach Club Restaurant

A lunch or dinner table at Beach Club Restaurant is best booked in advance – and it’s easy to see why. Looking out over the hotel’s palm-fringed infinity pool, the restaurant spotlights elegant contemporary Australian cuisine with a stellar (also Aussie-leaning) wine list to match.

I am completely enamoured by the grilled Queensland prawns, which are brought to life with a smoked compound, local fried curry leaves and lime. Digging into the butter-soft lamb rump served atop pea ragout and parsley Paris mash feels like a warm, nostalgic hug. And dessert – vanilla bean ice cream drizzled with hot salted honey and apple gel – ends the night on a high note.

Expect warm and discreet service; our waiter Marco tells us that the tiny decorative starfish on our table are there to help the staff remember whether we prefer sparkling or still water, so they don’t need to bother us by asking multiple times.

Talk & Taste with Courtenay Morgan-Fletcher

There’s more to Hamilton Island’s foodie scene than restaurant reservations alone. For wine-curious travellers seeking something a little more immersive, Beach Club has recently introduced Talk & Taste – a tutored tasting hosted by Bommie Assistant Manager and wine enthusiast Courtenay Morgan-Fletcher. Held twice weekly for a maximum of eight guests, the experience explores Australian wine culture through four thoughtfully selected drops paired with native-inspired bites.

We opt for the white wine and seafood option. Alongside pours from Eden Valley and Launceston, a nibbling platter arrives featuring sashimi, salmon roe, Mooloolaba prawn ceviche and palate-cleansing ginger. The seafood is pristine and pared back, allowing the wines to take centre stage.

The real highlight, however, is discovering just how nuanced winemaking can be. Courtenay speaks of viticulture as both art and science: harvest grapes a week too late and ripeness tips into ruin; plant the same varietal on different elevations and the sun, slope and water flow will shape entirely different expressions. Pinot noir, she explains, with its delicate skin and high water content, yields lighter fruit-forward wines, while thicker-skinned shiraz delivers depth and structure. I leave feeling fascinated and inspired by Courtenay’s evident passion.

coca chu

Sweet and hot. Sour and salty. Dining at ever-popular coca chu is a sensation-swirling experience that’s not to be missed if you’re a sucker for punchy Southeast Asian flavours. Located at the Main Pool end of Catseye Beach, this lively hangout is all swaying lanterns, driftwood, high beamed ceilings and giant open windows that let in the balmy ocean breeze.

Drawing from hawker traditions, the grilled betel leaf is a neat, vibrant mouthful of chilli fried cashews and spiced beef. The tofu surprises – soft beneath a tumble of dill, mint and coriander, and glossed in moreish peanut sauce. The massaman curry is pure comfort: creamy, fragrant, fall-apart meat. It’s generous and expressive cooking that I, for one, cannot get enough of.

Marina Cafe

Sometimes, all you crave on holidays is a bacon and egg roll done properly and a creamy fruit smoothie. Boasting harbour views, an easygoing atmosphere and clean modern interiors, Marina Cafe is a popular local haunt for a reason. The casual menu lures families and couples alike with its all-day brekky, seasonal salads and sandwiches – from a roasted pumpkin bowl to prosciutto and rocket on herby focaccia.

The acai bowl, topped with toasted nuts and berries, is a refreshing start to my day. Whether you sit in or takeaway, it’s a good-vibes-guaranteed place to refuel before or after your Whitsundays adventures.

Discover your foodie getaway now at hamiltonisland.com.au.

Every beautiful Brisbane swimming spot to cool off at

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

1. Spring Hill Baths

2. Streets Beach

3. Enoggera Reservoir

4. Chermside Aquatic Centre

5. The Calile Hotel Pool Deck

6. Centenary Aquatic Centre

7. UQ Sport Aquatic Centre

8. Wynnum Wading Pool

9. Settlement Cove Lagoon

10. Cedar Creek

11. Hotel X Rooftop Pool

12. Lake Moogerah

13. Emporium Hotel South Bank

14. The Valley Pool

15. Soleil Pool Bar at Rydges South Bank Brisbane

16. Bunya Crossing Reserve

17. Stony Creek

18. Emily Seebohm Aquatic Centre

19. WET Deck at W Brisbane

20. Yeronga Park Swimming Complex

21. The Pool Terrace at Hyatt Regency Brisbane

Howard Smith Wharves’ $500m glow-up includes a boutique hotel and over-river pool

The Westin Brisbane: A five-star hotel devoted to your wellbeing

A definitive guide to the best restaurants in Brisbane

Elegant spots to savour a Brisbane high tea

A gourmand’s guide to eating your way around Hamilton Island

From poolside bites and tasting flights to seafood plates and dry-aged steaks, a foodie adventure on Hamilton Island is worth every bite.

Catseye Pool Club

Sails Restaurant

Bommie

Pebble Beach

Beach Club Restaurant

Talk & Taste with Courtenay Morgan-Fletcher

coca chu

Marina Cafe

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

1. Spring Hill Baths

2. Streets Beach

3. Enoggera Reservoir

4. Chermside Aquatic Centre

5. The Calile Hotel Pool Deck

6. Centenary Aquatic Centre

7. UQ Sport Aquatic Centre

8. Wynnum Wading Pool

AI Prompt

9. Settlement Cove Lagoon

10. Cedar Creek

11. Hotel X Rooftop Pool

12. Lake Moogerah

13. Emporium Hotel South Bank

14. The Valley Pool

15. Soleil Pool Bar at Rydges South Bank Brisbane

16. Bunya Crossing Reserve

17. Stony Creek

18. Emily Seebohm Aquatic Centre

19. WET Deck at W Brisbane

20. Yeronga Park Swimming Complex

21. The Pool Terrace at Hyatt Regency Brisbane

Howard Smith Wharves’ $500m glow-up includes a boutique hotel and over-river pool

The Westin Brisbane: A five-star hotel devoted to your wellbeing

A definitive guide to the best restaurants in Brisbane

Elegant spots to savour a Brisbane high tea

From poolside bites and tasting flights to seafood plates and dry-aged steaks, a foodie adventure on Hamilton Island is worth every bite.

Catseye Pool Club

Sails Restaurant

Bommie

Pebble Beach

Beach Club Restaurant

Talk & Taste with Courtenay Morgan-Fletcher

coca chu

Marina Cafe