5 Next-Level Watering Holes That Prove The NT Does Swimming Better Than The Rest Of Aus
These incredible waterfalls, secluded swimming holes, and natural thermal pools in the Northern Territory will make you forget all about the beaches at Byron and Esperance.
If you seek different, this is the holiday for you.
It’s known for balmy weather year-round, and yet the Northern Territory isn’t exactly the first destination that springs to mind for a beach-filled getaway. But the NT certainly punches above its weight when it comes to splash-and-photo-worthy swimming spots.
Don’t believe us? These incredible waterfalls, secluded swimming holes, and natural thermal pools in the NT will make you forget all about the beaches at Byron and Esperance.
#1 Bitter Springs
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With its impossibly blue hue, deceivingly warm water (we’re talking steady temperatures of 30-33°C), and thick canopy of palm trees, the thermal pool at Bitter Springs is a whole lot sweeter than the name lets on.
Whether you’re in or out of the water, there’s plenty to see and do here. Goggle up and go exploring the depths of the crystal-clear water or recline on an inflatable and let the current gently drift you downstream. It doesn’t take you too far so you can hop out, wander a short way back up the trail, rinse, and repeat.
Once the current-riding novelty has worn off, sprawl out on the swimming platform and soak up the sun before heading out on a quick walk. Take the short, 500m looped trail to discover all sorts of subtropical flora and fauna, including the area’s local (and vocal) fruit bat population.
#2 Katherine Hot Springs
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100km up the road from Bitter Springs you’ll find the Katherine Hot Springs. This easily accessible (and very popular) swimming hole is made up of a series of warm thermal pools framed by palm-like pandanus trees. It’s like a slice of island life in outback Australia.
There may not be any white sand beaches to sunbathe on or dozens of brilliantly coloured corals to snorkel, but the water clarity of the pools and the thick surrounding vegetation at Katherine Hot Springs is up there with the most idyllic island escapes. Bring your GoPro and try your hand at snapping some underwater shots or be present in the moment and just enjoy a paddle in the 25-30°C water.
#3 Ormiston Gorge
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Ninety minutes out of Alice Springs you’ll find one of Australia’s most unique beaches. In the depths of inland Australia, the West MacDonnell National Park’s Ormiston Gorge is as far from the cookie-cutter beach scene as you can get. Trade out white sand, palm trees, and crashing waves for a sandy creek bank, some towering red cliffs, and a spattering of shady gums and you’ve got yourself the Ormiston Gorge experience.
The gorge is just 500m from the national park’s visitor centre and sits at the trailhead for sections nine and 10 of the 231m Larapinta walking trail. Adventurers can start the day off by exploring the rocky slopes and main gorge on the 8.5km Ormiston Pound circuit before taking a well-deserved dip in the waterhole. Not-so-avid hikers can bring a picnic and an inflatable, set up under one of the gums, and enjoy a relaxing day in and by the water.
Bathers beware: these are some chilly waters, perfect for a quick dip on those warm NT days.
#4 Ellery Creek Big Hole
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Also within the bounds of West MacDonnell National Park is Ellery Creek Big Hole, or Udepata as it’s known to the Central and West Arrernte people. Udepata is a sacred Aboriginal site, an internationally significant geological site, and a popular camping, swimming, walking, and picnic spot for locals and tourists.
If you’re hitting the road for Ellery Creek Big Hole from Alice Springs, the drive will take you around an hour (note: the last 2km of the drive is on unsealed roads). Once you’re at the carpark, follow the track a short way and you’ll reach the rugged red cliffs and sandy banks of the sacred site. Carved out by thousands of years of raging floodwaters, this spectacular swimming hole is one of the few that remains full year-round.
#5 Maguk (Barramundi Gorge)
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It’s one of Kakadu National Park’s lesser-known attractions, but that doesn’t mean you should let Maguk slip off your radar. Thanks to its remote location, there’s a good chance that it will be just you and your travel buddies enjoying the natural beauty of this subtropical gem. The drive into Maguk is on unsealed roads but it can be accessed by 2WD for most of the year (just check the road reports before you go).
When you arrive, you’ll find a secluded plunge pool complete with a cascading waterfall and lush surrounding rainforests – set between the deep, red walls of the gorge. Spend your day splashing about in the cool, deep waters of the pool or hiking the surrounding area before setting up camp for the night in the nearby campground or resort.
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(Lead image: @travelboho courtesy of Tourism Northern Territory)