Can’t get to the coast, or want to cool off somewhere local? Canberra Daily has rounded up some of the best places to chill, right here in the Nation’s Capital.
Check water quality warnings before diving in via tccs.act.gov.au and nca.gov.au, and for more info on ACT reserves and swimming spots, visit environment.act.gov.au
Manuka Pool
‘Canberra’s first pool’ boasts an outdoor 30m six-lane pool, outdoor toddler’s pool, shaded grounds, a playground and a café.
Open: 6.30am-7pm weekdays, 8am-7pm weekends and 10am-6pm public holidays.
Location: New South Wales Crescent, Griffith
Admission: $7 standard, $5 concession, $4 pensioner, $20 family (two adults, two children), $4 extra family member. Free for children under three and DSP card holders.
More info: manukapool.com.au
Canberra Olympic Pool
Test your diving skills in the outdoor diving pool, or swim some quiet laps in the indoor 50m pool. With access to a toddler pool, large grass areas, beach volley ball courts and barbecue facilities, there’s something for everyone.
Open: Monday-Friday 5.30am-9pm (dive pool open 10am-6pm daily), Saturday 7am‒7pm, Sunday 8am‒7pm and public holidays 8am-6pm.
Location: corner of Allara Street and Constitution Avenue, Canberra City
Admission: $7 standard, $5 concession, $4 pensioner, $18.70 family (two adults, two children), $21.50 family (two adults, three children).
More info: canberraolympicpool.com.au
Kambah Pool
Swim in multiple areas of the Murrumbidgee River at Kambah Pool, or opt for a spot of fishing, canoeing or hiking. Part of the northern section of the swimming area is reserved for nude bathing. Walk to Casuarina Sands or walk or mountain bike to Pine Island.
Open: Kambah Pool gates are closed between 9pm and 8am during daylight saving.
Location: Kambah Pool Road, Kambah
Pine Island
Swim in the river, sunbathe on the grass and keep the kids entertained with a playground area. Canoeing and fishing is also popular at Pine Island
Open: Pine Island gates are closed between 9pm and 8am during daylight saving.
Location: Pine Island Road, Greenway
Point Hut Crossing
Just south of Pine Island, enjoy a sandy beach with shaded picnic areas. Dogs welcome, with both on- and off-leash areas.
Location: off Point Hut Road, Gordon
Casuarina Sands
Popular fishing destination Casuarina Sands is perfect for an afternoon dip, kayak or barbecue at the Murrumbidgee River. Walking trails start here to take you all the way to Kambah Pool, if you desire.
Location: off Cotter Road, Stromlo
Uriarra Crossing
Fish, canoe or swim off the shady banks of the Murrumbidgee. Make use of the walking trails that take you along the river, or head up to Swamp Creek for another cool-down spot. On- and off-leash pooches welcome, but not on the walking trails!
Location: Uriarra Road, Stromlo
Gibraltar Falls
There are some stunning swimming holes at the top of Gibraltar Falls, as well as shady picnic areas. Be careful of slippery rocks, though, and adhere to any warning signs posted in the area.
Location: just a few minutes’ drive south of Woods Reserve, Corin Road, Namadgi National Park
Yarralumla dog beach
Take the pooch for a paddle at the dog-friendly beach area after a run at the nearby Yarralumla puppy park. With an off-leash grassed area and access to the lake for swimming, your furry friend won’t want to leave!
Location: Brown Street, Yarralumla
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