While our endless West Australian coastline gets most of the love, there’s something special about ditching the salt for a freshwater escape. Whether it’s the crisp splash after a long hike or the simple pleasure of floating beneath tall trees, the swimming holes in and around Perth offer the kind of experience you just don’t get from a crowded beach.
Plus, let’s be honest—when you’ve just hiked through the hills or spent the afternoon baking in the bush, waiting another 45-minute drive to get to the ocean just doesn’t cut it. Sometimes you want to jump straight in, trail shoes still damp and sweat still drying.
Here’s our rundown of the best freshwater swimming holes near Perth, from urban river gems to forested pools worth the road trip.
Swimming holes inside Perth city limits
Point Walter, Bicton
Tucked along the Swan River, Point Walter is a local favourite for a reason. The sandbar is iconic but there’s also a protected swimming area perfect for families and chill river dips. It’s easy to access, great for a picnic and the water’s calm—ideal for floating away the afternoon.
Is Point Walter dog friendly? Dogs are allowed on leash in some areas but not on the beach itself.
Blackwall Reach, Bicton
Just around the corner from Point Walter, Blackwall Reach is a dramatic limestone cliff face that draws the more adventurous. While the cliff diving here is unofficial and technically not encouraged (jump at your own risk!), it’s a rite of passage for many locals. The water is deep and cool with plenty of shady spots to escape the sun.
Is Blackwall Reach dog friendly? Dogs are permitted on lead in surrounding parks.
Want more mini adventures in Perth? Check out our list of must-do things within the Perth city limits: 17 awesome adventure ideas in Perth
Bicton Baths, Bicton
A short stroll from Blackwall Reach, Bicton Baths offers a more relaxed vibe. With its old-school wooden jetty and clear water, it’s a great spot for a morning swim or a peaceful paddle. You’ll often spot fish schooling around your feet.
Is Bicton Baths dog friendly? No dogs allowed on the swimming jetty but okay in nearby open spaces on leash.
Matilda Bay, Crawley
While technically a bay, it’s part of the river system, not the ocean. Just across from UWA, Matilda Bay is flat, accessible and lined with big trees for shade. A favourite for students and city workers sneaking in a quick dip on hot lunch breaks.
Is Mathilda Bay dog friendly? Dogs are allowed on leash but not in the designated swimming areas.
Swimming spots outside Perth city
Rocky Pool – Kalamunda (40min from Perth CBD)
A short but rocky hike brings you to this little oasis in the hills. The pool isn’t huge but after the trek in, it feels like a well-earned reward. Surrounded by jarrah forest, it’s a great place to cool down before the walk back.
Is Rocky Pool dog friendly? Dogs are allowed on leash along the trail.
Scarp Pool – Dwellingup (1hr 30min from Perth CBD)
Hidden in Lane Poole Reserve, this lesser-known pool is a gem. It’s not far from the Nanga Mill campsite and is usually quieter than some of the more popular spots. Great for those looking to combine swimming with camping or a longer bushwalk.
Is Scarp Pool dog friendly? Dogs allowed on leash in the reserve.
Honeymoon Pool – Wellington National Park (2hr from Perth CBD)
A dreamy name for a dreamy place. Honeymoon Pool sits beneath towering trees beside the Collie River and is known for its deep, calm waters. With platforms to jump from and plenty of picnic space, it’s one of the best freshwater swimming spots in WA.
Is Honeymoon Pool dog friendly? Dogs are not permitted.
Serpentine Falls – Serpentine National Park (1hr from Perth CBD)
A classic. Water tumbles over granite rock into a cool, deep pool that’s perfect after a short hike in. There are BBQs, lawns and loads of kangaroos lazing around. It gets busy on weekends so aim for an early start.
Is Serpentine Falls dog friendly? Dogs are not permitted in the national park.
Black Diamond Lake – Near Collie (2hr 15min from Perth CBD)
This old mining pit has transformed into an Instagram-famous swimming hole thanks to its brilliant turquoise water. Bring a floatie, pack a picnic and soak it up—but get there early, it’s become very popular in recent years.
Is Black Diamond Lake dog friendly? Dogs are allowed on lead.
Lake Leschenaultia – Chidlow (45min from Perth CBD)
This man-made lake in the Perth Hills is an old favourite. With grassy banks, BBQ facilities and canoe hire, it’s perfect for a lazy weekend swim. The water is cool and clear and there’s plenty of space to spread out.
Is Lake Leschenaultia dog friendly? Dogs are not allowed.
Minninup Pool – Collie (2hr 15min from Perth CBD)
Just down the road from Black Diamond, this peaceful pool is another great spot to relax. Surrounded by bushland and less crowded, it offers a tranquil alternative if you find Black Diamond too busy.
Is Minninup Pool dog friendly? Dogs are welcome on leash.
Susannah Lake – Gidgegannup (45min from Perth CBD)
A little off the radar, this lake is usually the domain of local dogs cooling off. But if you’re up for it, it’s a scenic and serene place for a quick dip. Just be prepared to share the water with a few four-legged swimmers.
Is Susannah Lake dog friendly? The area is very dog friendly. In fact, most swimmers in Susannah Lake are K-9s.
A few words on safety
Before you throw yourself in to anyone of these water holes near Perth, take a beat. Always check with local authorities to see if a waterhole is open for swimming—closures can happen due to bacteria blooms, algal outbreaks or recent heavy rainfall. These aren’t patrolled areas either so swim within your abilities, avoid going solo and keep an eye out for submerged rocks or slippery edges.
Some spots are also home to critters—snakes, insects and the occasional freshwater crustacean. Nothing to panic about but worth being aware.
Respect the land and the waters
Many of these swimming holes are located on land with deep cultural significance for Indigenous Australians. These places have been used, honoured and respected for thousands of years. So tread lightly—pack out what you pack in, stay on marked paths and don’t disturb wildlife or vegetation.
These aren’t just spots to cool off—they’re sacred, storied and beautiful places that deserve our care.
Ready to get wet in one of Perth’s swimming holes?
So, next time you feel the sun boiling your brain and your shirt sticking to your back, consider skipping the coast. There’s magic inland—cool pools, forest shade and the kind of peace that only comes from freshwater and birdsong. Whether it’s a cheeky after-work river swim or a weekend drive into the bush, Perth’s swimming holes are waiting. Just don’t forget the mozzie repellent.
Looking for more epic destinations to check out in WA? Before you set up your tent, check out our explorer-written Adventure Guides for a tonne of inspiration!
