There is nothing better than a dip in a freshwater creek to make you feel alive and rejuvenated!
There is certainly no shortage of swimming spots in Tropical North Queensland, with some of the very best in our own backyard. It would be a crime to visit Far North Queensland without checking out some of the natural wonders that surround us.
Summer is the best time to visit the freshwater creeks and swimming holes to cool off and embrace the natural pristine scenery.
To help you out, we have compiled a list of the local hot spots so you can do less searching and more swimming! Happy adventuring 🙂
Mossman Gorge
Well known for being one of the most beautiful locations in the region, Mossman Gorge is a short 20-minute drive out of Port Douglas. Visitors can expect crystal clear waters and plenty of lush rainforest.
Take the opportunity to learn about the indigenous history at the information centre or go on a guided bushwalk.
For a small fee you can get a bus from the centre up the Gorge. There are also multiple transfers between Port Douglas & Mossman daily.
Feel like getting your blood pumping? Skip the bus and walk up to the Gorge. This will take you around 40 minutes and you can stop along the way at swimming spots like the Hippie Hole, a locals favourite.
Spring Creek & Falls
Located just outside of Port Douglas, Spring Creek is a sunny fresh water hole that is popular with the locals.
You get there by taking the turn off at Tresize Road and then taking a left into Spring Creek Road. Keep driving until you come to the creek.
If you are a thrill seeker have a go on the rope swing and plunge into the refreshing water.
If you’re a waterfall chaser, take the 1.5km hike upstream to Spring Creek Falls. We recommend a high level of fitness as there are quite a few large rocks to climb over. The end result is well worth the hike!
Shannonvale
Not only is this one of the most picturesque swimming spots, its also a great option for families as the water is easily accessible, shallow and mostly sandy. Shannonvale is the perfect spot to bring a picnic and spend the day relaxing, swimming and exploring the surrounding bushland. It’s as pretty as a postcard!
To get there, head North from Port Douglas and follow the signs to the Shannonvale Winery and head down Shannonvale Road until you reach the creek that has a shady parking area and road crossing through it.
Anich’s Bridge on Syndicate Road
A popular spot to spend the day chilling out, this creek is wide, normally quite shallow and has a large log for relaxing and soaking up some sun. Our tip is to bring some inflatables and float down the creek!
If you take Syndicate Road you’ll see a sign for Finlayvale Road on the left.
This is the road up to the luxurious Silky Oaks Lodge and the Mossman River runs along most of it all the way up to the Lodge.
There are a few access points before and after the bridge if you are looking for some privacy.
Cape Tribulation
Driving a little further up the coast from Port Douglas you will reach the Daintree and Cape Tribulation which are home to some beautiful swimming holes.
First stop is Mason’s Shop creek. Before you reach Cape Tribulation on your left there is a tourist information centre called Mason’s Shop that has a freshwater swimming hole behind it. Ask the store for details on how to get there and a gold coin donation is appreciated for their efforts in keeping the swimming hole maintained.
Another popular spot is Emmagen Creek which is a further 5km North past Cape Tribulation. You can reach there in a two wheel drive, but it is not wise to travel any further north. There is small carpark on the western side of the road just before you cross Emmagen Creek.
Grab a map of the Daintree at Mason’s Shop and see what you can find!
Four Mile Beach
Although not a freshwater swimming hole, Four Mile Beach will give you that sandy, salty hit that every tropical holiday requires. Located just a couple of minutes walk from Cayman Villas, Four Mile is super accessible and extremely easy on the eye with gorgeous mountain views and lush palm trees everywhere you look. The entrance closest to Cayman Villas is where you will find the red & yellow flags.
