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The 8 Best Swimming Holes Near Me on The Central Coast

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Norah Head Rockpool — Norah Head by @dronedoutphotography

Swimming Holes Near Me on the Central Coast….

As the weather starts to warm up there’s nothing better than diving into an all-natural pretty-as-a-picture swimming hole on the Central Coast.

From dramatic rock pools that edge the oceans tides to picturesque inlets tucked away in the rainforest, we’re not short of incredible places to swim.

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If you’re wanting to plan your next morning wakeup call swim or a day out exploring the stunning natural baths our coastline has to offer, check out this list of the best swimming holes in the area.

Slap on the sunscreen, pack your towel and get ready to dive in.

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1. Emerald Pool

Emerald Pool Central Coast — by @rxf.deguzman

Located in Popran National Park, this all-natural swimming hole is reached by walking a short distance through the bush. It is idylic here, with Emerald Pool being just that a pool of emerald-coloured water. It’s super safe to swim in, with the water getting it’s colour from the small ferns that line the pool.

Popran National Park, Calga

2. The Grant McBride Baths

The Entrance Pools — Image by @fromabove.images

The Grant McBride Baths, otherwise known as The Entrance Ocean Baths, takes pride of place in this much-loved coastal town. This popular seaside swimming spot is split into three ocean pools providing a little something for everyone – an Olympic sized lap pool for the serious swimmers looking to clock in some kilometres, a shorter 22m lap pool to cater to the more relaxed paddlers and a wading pool perfect for kids to safely splash about. The Entrance Ocean Baths offer free entry all year around (take a frosty dip in the wintertime if you’re brave) and are regularly closed for cleaning throughout the month.

88 Ocean Parade, The Entrance

Best Swimming Holes on the Central Coast

3. Norah Head Rock Pool

The Norah Head Rock Pool really is one of nature’s most beautiful swimming pools. This local favourite gets an A+ for aesthetics (that crystal blue water will get you every time) and an equally high score for providing a safe spot for the family to spend the day. With a ring of rocks separating the oncoming tide from the swimming hole, this makes for a placid still water ocean pool perfect for little kids to play and for big kids to relax.

South of the Norah Head Boat Ramp

4. Kariong Brook Falls

swimming holes near me central coast — Brook Falls by @twosometravellers

As much as we love to wax lyrical about our gorgeous beaches on the Central Coast, we’ve got equal bragging rights when it comes to bushland, rainforests and national parks. If you’d like to get away from the crowded beaches for the day, make your way to the Brisbane Water National Park to explore the Kariong Brook Falls. At the foot of the cascading waterfall the freshwater opens up into a rock pool nestled amongst the bushy eucalyptus trees and mossy rock formations. It might be the most idyllic swimming hole on the Central Coast. To access the Kariong Brook Falls you’ll need to hike your way there, but trust us, the pay off is well worth the grunt work.

Great North Walk, Kariong

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5. Terrigal Rock Pool

Make your way along the newly renovated Terrigal Boardwalk and you’ll find a rock pool cuddled into the corner of the beach. Not only will you be treated to a refreshing swim but you’ll also get a wonderful view of the Terrigal Promenade and the great blue South Pacific Ocean. This bustling hotspot is a veritable playground for beachgoers with a boat ramp, snorkelling areas and public barbeques – this is the perfect place to make a day of it.

Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal

6. Macmasters Beach

This ocean pool at the far end of Macmasters Beach is our favourite swimming hole on the Central Coast. Yes, we know we shouldn’t play favourites but it’s hard not to. Take the stairs down and swim laps with the locals at sunrise. At low tide, it’s a great spot for small children. But a little word of advice, it does get busy during the summer months.

7. Spoon Bay

If you’re looking to go off grid and block out the noise, slip away to Spoon Bay for a peaceful swim to find your zen. Located in the Wamberal Lagoon Nature Reserve in Forresters Beach, this quiet bay will provide the perfect backdrop for a day in the sun soaking up the turquoise waters and untouched sand. As this is an unpatrolled beach be sure to always stay close to shore and only venture into the waters if you’re a confident swimmer. But don’t worry, the water is just as pleasant where the ocean meets the sand and will make for a great spot to pull out your book and relax.

Spoon Bay Road, Forresters Beach

8. Pearl Beach Rock Pool

Chipped into the side of the cliff lies the Pearl Beach Rock Pool running adjacent to the ocean at 25m long. This swimming hole is for the adventure-seekers among us who are looking to take in some laps while contending with the elements of the ocean biting at you. The Pearl Beach Rock Pool certainly isn’t for the faint hearted but if you don’t mind the motion of the crashing waves lapping at your side as you paddle through, then this is just the ticket for you. If you’re feeling more content out of the water you’ll have just as much fun lazing by the pool or enjoying the delights of the many cafes in the area.

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