Australia has many beautiful beaches that are worth visiting. However, if you want a different swimming experience, rock pools are a great choice. The ocean forms these natural pools and offers calm, clear water. Here are some of the best rockpools to visit in Australia.
Maccallum Pool is a special 33-metre pool by the harbor. You can find it on the western side of Cremorne Point. The pool has a unique heritage style and offers great views.
The pool is always open and only closes for cleaning as detailed here. There is street car park available near MacCallum Pool on Milson Road in Cremorne Point. The council manages this metered parking, so be sure to check the parking fees and time limits.
Fairy Bower Pool in NSW is an ocean rock pool, but it is not a completely natural beach rock pool. It is a man-made ocean pool that sits right by the sea, allowing ocean water to flow in.
✔️ Located between Manly Beach and Shelly Beach
✔️ Man-made ocean pool with a natural seawater experience
✔️ Small, scenic, and peaceful compared to larger rock pools
✔️ **Has sculptures called “The Sea Nymphs” decorating the edge
✔️ Popular for swimming and relaxing with ocean views
One of the most famous ocean pools, Bondi Icebergs Pool is located at Bondi Beach. It is open all year and gives you a great view of the ocean. This is a perfect place for swimming and taking photos.
On the Sapphire Coast, the Blue Pool in Bermagui has clear water and amazing ocean views. A staircase leads down to the pool, making it easy to access while still feeling like a hidden spot.
Located in Coogee, Giles Baths is a natural rockpool where ocean waves flow in. It is a great place to enjoy a saltwater swim with beautiful views of the sea.
You can find Bronte Beach in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. It has a short but beautiful stretch of sand. There are also many cute cafés that serve tasty Aussie brunch.
At the beach’s southern end is Bronte Baths, an ocean pool that dates back to 1887. Take advantage of this stunning spot with a few laps or a gentle paddle, protected from the surf.
This rockpool in Yallingup, Western Australia, is famous for its "spa effect." Waves crash over the rocks, creating natural bubbles in the water. Be careful and check the tides before visiting.
Away from the beach, the Currumbin Rock Pools in the Gold Coast Hinterland are fresh-water pools in the rainforest. You can swim under waterfalls and enjoy the peaceful nature.
On Fraser Island (K'gari), the Champagne Pools fill with seawater when waves crash over the rocks. The bubbles look like a natural jacuzzi, making it a unique swimming spot.
For an inland swimming experience, Emma Gorge in El Questro Wilderness Park is a beautiful place. It has clear water surrounded by red cliffs and a small waterfall.
✔️ Check Tide Times – Some rockpools are only safe at low tide. Always check before you go.
✔️ Wear Water Shoes – Rocks can be slippery or sharp.
✔️ Watch for Marine Life – Some pools have small fish or sea urchins. Be careful.
✔️ Follow Safety Warnings – Some rockpools are near strong waves. Always follow local advice.
✔️ Respect Nature – Keep these places clean and take your rubbish with you.
Whether you want to swim in the ocean or in a quiet rainforest pool, Australia has many rockpools to explore. Bring your swim gear and enjoy these natural wonders!