10 spots to take a dip this weekend
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Baby, it’s getting hot out here. Here are 10 ways to cool off that are more fun than sitting under the air conditioner – we share some of our favourite places to swim in Canberra.
Be sure to check water quality advice before you head out and make sure to swim to the conditions—just because it’s not a beach, doesn’t mean the water is safe at all times.
There’s also a lot of water about at the moment, and swimming in rivers has a higher level of risk than pools. Check out these safety tips.
Canberra’s pools
From the Art Deco stylings of Manuka Pool to Stromlo Leisure Centre’s family-friendly facilities, there are plenty of public and privately-operated pools to cool off in. Although we’ve grouped this as ‘one way’ to cool off, there are actually more than 20 pools to choose from.
Find one to suit your aquatic mood at sport.act.gov.au.
Yarralumla Bay
Primarily designed for water-based recreation with a boat-launching area and sections set aside for swimming, Yarralumla Bay offers pleasant shaded picnic areas connected to popular commuter and recreational cycleway/walkway with information and directional signage around the lake.
The western part of the area has sailing and rowing clubhouses, launching ramps, piers and a wharf. Make sure to check the water quality here.
Between Orana Bay and Blue Gum Point | Access via Alexandria Drive | Google Map
Molonglo Reach
Nip off Morshead Drive to find this quiet spot that’s popular with cyclists and kayaking enthusiasts alike. Grassy areas are spotted with picnic tables for a post-swim feed and there’s plenty of space to stretch out on.
Just keep in mind that the area is ringed by cycle paths and roads, so take extra care with little ones and furry friends.
Because this is a river mouth, be especially careful after rain. Make sure to check the water quality here.
Access via Morshead Drive, Campbell | Google Map
Weston Park
The large playground includes a climbing net and swings with a wading pool that is operational in summer only and a miniature train.
Perfect for large groups, Weston Park has a beach (maybe we do have one after all) and a swimming area located on the eastern shore while ample provision has been made for picnicking and parking.
Make sure to check the water quality here.
Access via Weston Park Road, Yarralumla | Google Map
Casuarina Sands
Tall shady trees, green grass and the river flowing with purpose are what will greet you at Casuarina Sands.
With so much to do, Casuarina Sands is an ideal location for picnics, river swimming and fishing or to launch your kayak or canoe—just be extra careful in the water as rivers aren’t without dangers.
It also offers barbecue facilities, shelter, drinking water, picnic tables and toilets.
After a swim in the river, why not take a stroll upstream to the historic pumping station?
Note: No dogs allowed.
Access via Cotter Road | Google Map
Cotter Bend
Tucked within a bend, a wide pool and sandy beach mark the meeting of the Cotter River and Paddy’s River.
A favourite for a swim, splash or fish, Cotter Bend offers barbecue facilities, picnic tables, drinking waters, toilets and is wheelchair accessible.
Enjoy a picnic on the grass, read a book under a large shady tree or enjoy a swim along the meandering river.
After a refreshing swim, you can even take a short drive to Tidbinbilla to enjoy snacks, ice cream, hot pies, sausage rolls, coffee and cold drinks at the Visitor Centre from 9 am–5 pm, seven days a week.
Access via Cotter Road | Google Map
Kambah Pool
A popular swimming spot equipped with picnic tables, toilets and walking trails, Kambah Pool offers the perfect picnic location.
Walk to spectacular Red Rocks Gorge, take a dip in the mighty Murrumbidgee River or hike along the River to Casuarina Sands or Pine Island.
Note: Part of the area is set aside for nude bathing and no dogs are allowed.
Access is off Kambah Pool Road | Google Map
Uriarra Crossing
Looking for a swimming spot you can enjoy with your dog? With both on and off-leash exercise areas, Uriarra is a great place to take your dog for a swim, indulge in a picnic or relax with a book.
Drive pass the cyclist haven of Stromlo Forest Park via scenic grazing country to Uriarra Crossing and its shady riverside picnicking areas.
Have a swim and walk down to the junction of the Molonglo River on the Uriarra Loop Walking Track. There are two sections of the park on either side of the river.
The area also has picnic tables, shelter, toilets and barbecue facilities available.
Access via Uriarra Road | Google Map
Pine Island
A long-time favourite for many Canberra families, Pine Island is the main recreation area along the Murrumbidgee River in southern Canberra, conveniently located adjacent to Tuggeranong.
The island features three separate barbecue areas with picnic tables and toilets, a playground and a series of swimming holes and beaches to enjoy.
Note: No dogs allowed.
Access Pine Island via Pine Island Road, Greenway | Google Map
Canberra Aqua Park
This fun swimming experience has returned to Black Mountain Peninsula.
A 1,600 square metre inflatable obstacle course, Canberra Aqua Park will operate throughout the warmer months.
Black Mountain Peninsula | Access via Lady Denman Drive | Google Map
