19 Refreshing Swimming Spots Near Brisbane To Dive Into This Summer

The humidity is coming. Prepare yourselves.

1. Streets Beach, South Bank

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Distance from CBD: 15 minute drive.

You don’t even need to leave the city to cool down on a hot summer’s day. This man-made lagoon lies within the skyscrapers and an array of bars and restaurants to keep you satisfied throughout the day. Be sure to stop at South Bank Social for a feed or a cheeky cocktail.

2. Cylinder Beach, Stradbroke Island

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Distance from CBD: 40 minute drive, 25 minute ferry.

A short ferry ride from outer Brisbane will lead you onto the (mostly) untouched Stradbroke Island. Once you’re there, head on down to Cylinder Beach on the north side of the island. It’s great for swimming, fishing and camping, depending on your adventure levels.

3. The Blue Lagoon, Moreton Island

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Distance from CBD: 30 minute drive, an hour and 15 minute ferry.

Moreton is home to historical shipwrecks and wonderful snorkelling experiences, as well as some great beaches and lagoons that aren’t to be missed.

You'll need to check out the Blue Lagoon, which is a freshwater lake that boasts the serenity of island living without the waves. Ferries from Brisbane can be caught at the price of $84 return, so an overnight trip is recommended to get your money's worth.

4. Enoggera Dam, The Gap

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Distance from CBD: 25 minute drive.

Just a short drive north-west of the city lies this heritage-listed water reservoir. It's a family favourite for those that don't have time for a road trip, but want to cool down from the humid summer sun.

5. King's Beach, Caloundra

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Distance from CBD: An hour and 20 minute drive.

The Sunshine Coast is every holiday-goer’s dream, and it doesn’t get much better than spending a day at King’s Beach in the heart of Caloundra. Soak up the salt water and continue to enjoy these million dollar views at the Caloundra Surf Club. And be sure to take a stroll down the coastal walk at sunset!

6. Tallebudgera Creek, Palm Beach

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Distance from CBD: An hour and 20 minute drive.

Down on the southern Gold Coast lies a gem not to be passed. This gorgeous inlet is home to some of the clearest water in the area, which makes it perfect if you enjoy going for a bit of a dive. So gather the stand-up paddle boards and PPE and prepare for a fresh day out in the sun.

7. Mt. Barney Lower Portals, Scenic Rim

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Distance from CBD: An hour and 45 minute drive, an hour walk.

Did someone say mountain-side swimming holes? Yeah, you heard that right. If you aren't prepared to tackle the gruelling mountain hike itself, enjoy the views and refreshment from the lower portals and turn up a sweat for that swim. Friendly reminder — you'll have to squeeze yourself through some narrow rocks to find these gems.

8. Gardner Falls, Maleny

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Distance from CBD: An hour and 30 minute drive.

Nestled in the Sunshine Coast hinterland are these cascading waterfalls flowing into rock pools. It’s the perfect place for a picnic and freshwater soak, followed by a sleepy bask in the sun while staring up at the giant water gums. If you're feeling adventurous, there's a rope swing you can fly off with a splash.

9. The Spit, Main Beach

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Distance from CBD: An hour drive.

Love big piers that make you think you're in Santa Monica? Well, you're in luck. The Spit is a great spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle and to unwind. If you look close enough, you might be able to spot Stradbroke Island.

10. Sylvan Beach, Bribie Island

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Distance from CBD: An hour drive.

This pretty nook is only a short hour drive north of the city. It's a top spot for kayaking and jet skiing, and boasts a lovely seafood restaurant right at its shores.

11. Currumbin Rock Pools, Gold Coast Hinterland

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Distance from CBD: An hour and 25 minute drive.

Beautifully refreshing swimming holes await in the Gold Coast hinterland. Make a day out of it with a barbecue, rope swings and picnic facilities provided. This is a very popular spot among locals and tourists, so it's advised to arrive early to beat the crowds.

12. Cotton Tree Beach, Maroochydore

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Distance from CBD: An hour and 30 minute drive.

Cotton Tree is a small suburb on the Sunshine Coast that is abundant in hip cafes and eateries like The Silva Spoon if you're a tea fanatic. It's also home to a quiet waveless beach tucked away from the tourism that's great for swimming in the sun and possibly taking the jet ski for a whirl.

13. Tangalooma Beach, Moreton Island

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Distance from CBD: 30 minute drive, an hour and 15 minute ferry.

Stepping onto the golden sands of this slice of paradise will have you inspired to write a book about how those shipwrecks got there. Swim out with your mask, snorkel and fins to see the abundance of wildlife inhabiting these historical wrecks, or watch on from the shoreline with a dense imagination.

14. Serenity Falls, Buderim

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Distance from CBD: An hour and 30 minute drive, 15 minute walk.

You'll fall in love with this rainforest the moment you step in it. From the moss-coated rocks to the protruding ancient trees — and the fact that you can swing amongst all that — Serenity Falls is true to its name. It'll steal a little bit of your day and a lot of your heart.

15. Lake Moogerah, Scenic Rim

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Distance from CBD: An hour and 30 minute drive.

Past the Gold Coast hinterland, you'll find the Scenic Rim. It's an area full of the biggest mountains and valleys in south-east Queensland, including this stunning lake. It's perfect for a day trip, or a camping adventure if that's your idea of fun. Just be sure to watch out for wildlife when driving at dawn and dusk!

16. Mothar Mountain Rock Pools, Gympie

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Distance from CBD: Two hour drive.

Mothar Mountain Rock Pools is a choice sport for a bush walk, wood-fired barbecue and a soak. Lace monitors and goannas are also native to the area, so you might be lucky enough to spot one.

17. Cedar Creek Falls, Mt. Tamborine

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Distance from CBD: An hour drive, 15 minute walk.

Cedar Creek Falls is a popular spot to unwind after indulging in a food and wine tour of the notorious Mt Tamborine village. This little hideaway is the only swimming spot on the mountain, so you can guarantee that it'll get busy pretty quick. Get in early for a good spot!

18. Gwongoorool Pool, Gold Coast Hinterland

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Distance from CBD: An hour and 30 minute drive, one hour walk.

If you want to spend the day by a nice swimming hole without the crowds, well, you're going to have to work a little to get to this one. This secret hideaway is located near Binna Burra and takes a strenuous 6km return hike along the Gwongoorool Track to find. But your efforts will be rewarded with a peaceful rainforest and secret oasis that only a potential few know about.

19. Cronan Creek Falls, Scenic Rim

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Distance from CBD: Two hour drive, an hour and 30 minute walk.

This lush swimming spot is another one for the avid hikers and bushwalkers. It's located at the end of the Cronan Creek Tack in Mt Barney National Park, which is a relatively easy 13km trek. If you're down for the journey, offline navigation apps such as MAPS.ME are recommended to stay on track and not get lost in the wilderness.