It’s no secret that the Gold Coast’s star attraction is its beaches – 70km of golden sand sparkling under the sun for an average of 300 days each year. 

However, in recent years, the lush rainforest areas have been capturing increased attention, with more people choosing to venture inland for the dreamy natural swimming holes scattered across the subtropical hinterland. 

With stunning evergreen tree canopies providing relief from the hot summer heat, we understand why people are opting to journey a little further afield. 

If you’re on the same wavelength, grab your bathers and pack a picnic because we’ve got all the details you need for 6 spectacular natural swimming holes on the Gold Coast.

George Falls

Located at the end of Tallebudgera Creek Road

If you’ve never driven to the very end of Tallebudgera Creek Road, it’s high time you jumped in the car and made the journey. 

Located in the upper Tallebudgera Valley, Gorge Falls is an absolutely unmissable Gold Coast swimming destination. Boasting refreshingly cold water and a picturesque waterfall plunging into a deep pool, you’ll wonder why you’ve never been before. 

The swimming hole is accessible via a 4km walking track. While the track is hard to distinguish at points, you can easily negotiate your own route by sticking close to the creek for the 45-minute hike. Parking is at the end of Tallebudgera Creek Road and the walk starts nearby via an initially rough gravel road.

Cougal Cascades

Located in Currumbin Valley

Cougal Cascades is a remarkable swimming hole within Springbrook National Park. It can be accessed via a beautiful rainforest walk which culminates in an impressive swimming spot coupled with a waterfall.

Getting to this staple swimming hole is easy, just 20km inland from Currumbin Beach down Currumbin Creek Road. Not only that, but it serves views for miles – perfect for those lucky enough to be the passenger princess.

Start the densely tropical 1.6km return walk track from the car park via the sealed path. Although hilly in some areas, this walk is manageable for all fitness levels, as well as wheelchair users and strollers. With shallow pools, deep pools, and of course the famous Cougal Cascades waterfall slide – solo, couple, group and family visitors will find something they enjoy.

Cedar Creek Falls

Located on Tamborine Mountain

If you’ve got an hour to spare while visiting Tamborine Mountain, don’t waste time trying to find something to do – immediately head to Cedar Creek Falls. It takes just 10 to 15 minutes to walk down to the falls via a well-maintained zigzagging trail. Don’t want to walk down? There’s also a lookout at the top with views of the open canyon and trickling waterfalls.

At the bottom of the falls, there are three accessible swimming holes with crystal clear water. These swimming holes are the only ones on the mountain and well-worth the 900-metre trek – which honestly isn’t that long. The carpark at this natural attraction is tiny, so get here early so you don’t have to park at the top of the road and walk an extra 20 minutes.

Twin Falls

Located in Springbrook National Park

This is one of the best waterfalls on the Gold Coast by our judgements… a big achievement coming from us (…we’ve been to a lot of them). Located in Springbrook just down the road from Purling Brook Falls – Twin Falls is a baby in comparison, but worth its weight in gold.

Access this alluring natural swimming hole via the 4km circuit track. Meander through large caves along the way and witness as drops of water from the spray of the waterfalls glisten on the leaves of the lush tropical rainforest.

As you reach the end, wander behind the two waterfalls – a totally enthralling experience. Be sure you’ve got your bathers packed because this is a swimming hole you’ll want to fully immerse yourself in.

Killen Falls

Located at Tintenbar, Northern NSW

Jump just across the Queensland border into New South Wales and you’ll find our personal favourite – Killen Falls. This impressive waterfall and swimming hole has had our hearts ever since we first visited.

The walk is sensational with huge natural caves to explore along the way, and the opportunity to walk behind the falls at the end of the track. The best time to visit Killen Falls is shortly after a storm as massive amounts of water plummet into the pool from the cliff above. Because this tropical oasis isn’t located down a deep valley like the other swimming destinations, the water remains relatively warm for year-round dips.

Access to the falls can be tricky due to a lot of rock hopping – however there is a lookout at the top for those who just want to catch a glimpse.

Tallebudgera Creek

Located at Tallebudgera

We know this isn’t exactly a swimming hole… but for those looking for a place to paddle without being pummeled by waves every second, Tallebudgera Creek is a turquoise oasis accessible from a variety of points.

Either park north or south of the Tallebudgera Creek bridge and enter the beautifully green, leafy walk from the southern end of the Burleigh National Park headland; or park at Burleigh Hill and venture down from the northern end of the headland.

With so many bush turkeys and plenty of shade to escape the heat – Tallebudgera Creek is a popular swimming destination with plenty of space for everyone.