The Shire’s Top 10 Swimming Spots

From hidden water holes to crystal clear bays

Discover the ultimate swimming spots in The Shire with our guide to the best places to cool off when the sun's out and the weather's warm. Whether you're looking for secluded pools, crystal-clear bays, or dog-friendly beaches, here are 10 swimming destinations in The Shire worth a visit.

Karloo Pools

Karloo Pools is renowned for its 20 x 10 metre bush pool which often makes its way onto the best of Sydney wild swimming lists. Despite it being a crowd favourite, there is plenty of space to relax poolside with flat, sun-drenched rocks bordering the water. A one-hour hike from Heathcote Station along the Karloo Walking Track will get you there. Enjoy the silvery green surroundings along the way and be sure to pack plenty of water!

Image by: She Who Hikes

Darook Park

Darook Park serves up the goods on all fronts. We’re talking clear, calm water, white sand and a sandbar at low tide on which little ones can frolic. Being one of the only west-facing beaches in The Shire, it’s also a great place to settle in and watch the sun go down.

Image by: Fly Candy

Winifred Falls

If a half an hour meander is more your cup of tea, Winifred Falls might be your perfect swimming hole. Park your car along the Winifred Falls Fire Trail entrance off Warumbul Road and stroll on down to the falls. Picnic on the surrounding rock platforms or head another 300m downstream for the deeper South West Arm Pool. 

Image by: Robert Polmear

Jibbon Beach

A favourite for those out boating, Jibbon Beach boasts some of the clearest waters in The Shire. Relatively secluded, you can set up camp and enjoy a full day’s worth of activities from beach walks to snorkelling, sunbathing and picnicking. And be sure to take the short walk to view the Jibbon Aboriginal rock carvings whilst you are there, one of the best preserved Aboriginal rock carving sites in Sydney. You can access Jibbon Beach by car, parking nearby at Neil Street intersection in Bundeena or by ferry from Cronulla Wharf.

Image by: Fly Candy

Deer Pool

Deer Pool can be found along the Marley Track which begins on the northern side of Bundeena Drive. The track entrance can be a little tricky to find so keep your eyes peeled! This little swimming hole is best after rain and requires a moderately difficult one-hour hike. You can expect sandy shores and a small cascading waterfall. Most likely you’ll get this one all to yourself!

Image by: Nimble Tours

Boat Harbour

Undoubtedly one of the most popular swimming destinations in The Shire, Boat Harbour allows for 4WD access straight onto the beach. The water is clear, you can set up your awning directly from the car and you can even bring your doggo along! But beware - Boat Harbour is exceptionally busy of a weekend and incurs a fee of $50 per car. On Sundays and public holidays between October and February, access is limited to season pass holders only. On some of these days, in particular, those expected to be very busy, access will be by invitation only, with invites received via a ballot system.

Image by: Kess Gallery

Salmon Haul

Salmon Haul is a swimmer's paradise as well as a Pinterest-perfect photo spot. Scramble over the rocks to set up your towel on the sandy beach and get straight into the turquoise waters. You can even bring a snorkel and mask as there is plenty to see here underwater. You’ll find toilet and picnic facilities nearby and can even wander the esplanade if you’re in need of a coffee.

The needles

A favourite dog-friendly swimming destination, The Needles is just a 20-minute stroll from nearby parking at the junction of Woronora Road and Mount Carmel Place (the walk begins at a locked gate after which you’ll need to take the right fork down the hill). You’ll feel a world away surrounded by the iconic colours and sounds of the Australian bush.

Barden’s Creek

If a secluded swimming hole is the vibe you’re after, you’ll love Barden’s Creek. The trail to this serene spot begins directly opposite ANSTO and Rutherford Avenue. Park up and make your way down to the fire trail, taking the first path to your left. We recommend making use of the app AllTrails to help you stay on track as this walk is not signposted. The trail will have you following Barden’s Creek until it emerges onto a divine blue swimming hole, nestled amongst a rocky amphitheatre. Take care getting down as the rocks are quite steep. If you’re not quite up to the descent, there is a gorgeous creek nearby that is plenty deep enough for a swim. Doggos welcome!

Image by: All Trails

Horden’s Beach

Far from the crowds of Cronulla lies Hordern's Beach in Bundeena where the water is flat and the sand is soft. This beaut beach is pet friendly and accessible by either car (a scenic drive through the Royal National Park) or ferry. We recommend making a day of it and snagging some fish and chips from local takeaway Vinegar and Brown Paper.