The Top End is renowned for its incredible nature and adventure. Combine both when you seek out its bucket-list swimming spots. These stunning areas not only dish out the memorable scenery but also immerse you in Australian nature and history.
Read on to discover nine swimming spots in the Northern Territory worthy of your bucket list.
1. Mataranka
Venture south from Katherine to the town of Mataranka and discover one of the Top End’s most picturesque swimming spots. The town’s thermal pool and hot springs are ideal for unwinding while soaking up stunning Northern Territory nature.
The thermal pool is located along the Waterhouse River and a short walk from the carpark. Once there, you can picnic by the water’s edge or slip into the rejuvenating fresh spring water fed by the Daly and Georgina basins. The water is a consistent 34 degrees Celsius, which is perfect for soothing weary muscles during your travels.
2. Bitter Springs
Only two kilometres from Mataranka, Bitter Springs is a tropical oasis among the Northern Territory’s rugged terrain. The springs are located in Elsey National Park, set among gorgeous palm trees. You can easily reach them by taking the 500-metre loop walk from the carpark.
These naturally fed pools offer crystal-clear water for leisurely swimming beneath a canopy of tropical forest. Bring your inflatable floats, snorkelling gear and a picnic lunch to properly enjoy this bucket-list swimming spot.
3. Katherine Hot Springs
Discover thermal springs right on the banks of the Katherine River. The Katherine Hot Springs comprises multiple pools varying from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. Nature abounds here, from the steps cut into rocks to the tropical trees and grassy areas ideal for picnics.
The uppermost pool is connected directly to the source of the natural spring and feeds into the other pools, offering ample space for swimmers. The clear water offers mineral properties that can aid weary muscles and other ailments. There are also walking tracks around the springs and a nearby cafe.
4. Tjaynera Falls (Sandy Creek)
Located in the famous Litchfield National Park, Tjaynera Falls is a picture-perfect swimming spot. The cascading falls plummet into a deep plunge pool at their base, which has a sandy beach. Dive in for a refreshing swim in Sandy Creek while gazing up at the impressive falls and millions of geological history across the rock faces.
Sure, it’s a bit of a walk to get there (about 1.7 kilometres each way) but it makes your first swim even more outstanding. It’s a Grade 3 track with some steep areas and rocky terrain. It leads you past cycad palms on your way to the falls and sandy beach.
5. Wangi Falls
If you’re visiting Litchfield National Park, you can’t miss Wangi Falls. Considered one of, if not the best swimming hole in Australia, these stunning falls are famed for their pristine beauty. We’re talking dramatic rocky escarpments, a large plunge pool and surrounding monsoon rainforest.
Paddle out into the middle of the swimming hole and you’ll feel the beauty of the Australian outback envelop you. There’s plenty of space for snorkelling, sunbathing or relaxing on an inflatable float. There are also picnic tables and barbecue nearby so you can make a day of it. Want a different view of the falls? Walk the three-kilometre loop track up and over the cascading water.
6. Darwin Waterfront
Located in the heart of Darwin’s CBD, the Darwin Waterfront has two fantastic swimming spots. Both are family friendly and offer safe and enjoyable swimming without stingers or crocodiles. The first is Wave Lagoon, a 4,000-square-metre wave pool with 10 different wave patterns. The swells reach up to 1.2 metres high and are a big hit with boogie boarders. It also has a play area for young ones with shallow water.
The other swimming spot here is the Recreation Lagoon. The lagoon is fed with fresh sea water through mesh screens that help maintain high water quality. They also let in an array of marine life, including fish, while helping to keep stingers out.
7. Ellery Creek Big Hole
You’ll find Ellery Creek Big Hole within the West MacDonnell Ranges. This popular swimming spot is surrounded by rugged cliffs and fed by the sandy Ellery Creek. Considered one of Australia’s best outback swimming holes, it’s a popular spot for hiking, camping, picnics and taking a refreshing dip.
In fact, the surrounding hiking trails reveal much of the area’s Indigenous history and significance. You can also learn more about the geological formations. Just make sure you save plenty of time for a swim once you’ve finished your trek.
8. Ormiston Gorge
Last but certainly not least, Ormiston Gorge is another bucket-list swimming spot in the Top End. Also located in the West MacDonnell Ranges, it has towering red cliffs, a sandy beach and beautiful gum trees along the water’s edge.
This swimming hole is only 500 metres from the visitor centre and parking and also has a nearby campground. There are several walks around the gorge, including half-day and overnight treks. During these walks you might even spot unique native wildlife, including rock wallabies.
Enchanting swimming holes in the NT
The Top End and Red Centre really do offer an incredible array of bucket-list swimming spots to explore. Book your next holiday in the Northern Territory through KAYAK for the best deals on hotels.
Photo Credit: Tourism Northern Territory
