Nothing gets us in the mood for summer more than one of our fave coffee table books and Instagram pages, @placesweswim. Inspired by their search for the perfect swimming hole, here's some of our favourite swimming spot adventures from last Summer...
Myola River, NSW
Have you ever been to Myola? No? Well put it on the list because this is one place that will pull you right back into those nostalgic childhood beach holiday memories! Myola is a quiet seaside town on the northern shores of Jervis Bay, offering river or beach swims depending on what tickles your fancy. And did we mention how clear the water is?
With lush bushy surroundings, this is one relaxing place to kick back and get back to nature. You can also catch "The Husky Ferry" over to Huskisson - a thriving waterfront town with cafes and shops if you're in need of some buzz. P.s. A stop at the 'Huskisson Hotel' and World Famous Fish N Chips is a MUST! Chilli prawns and salt n pepper calamari comin' right up...
Honeymoon Bay, Jervis Bay, NSW
Looking for somewhere to take your SUP or snorkelling gear? Look no further than Honeymoon Bay. This stunning little cove is pretty much picture perfect, you could (will) spend a whole day there, so make sure you pack a picnic and layer on the SPF 30. The perfect place for taking the kids too, with calm waters and shade aplenty. Also watch for a few cheeky Kangaroos bounding across the sand, they're good like that!
Be warned though, the carpark can fill up by mid morning on a hot summer's day and you'll be turned away. So either get there early or plan your visit outside of school holidays or weekends.
Turpins Falls, Macedon Ranges, VIC
A tip straight from the pages of Places we Swim, this large, untouched billabong is quite something if you're into getting off the beaten track. Turpins Falls is situated in the Macedon Ranges and may be your best place to cool down over the Summer if you're wanting to avoid the hot, sandy beaches. Feeling adventurous? With a little hike to get you to your destination, this seriously serene location is a great spot to set up, read a book and have a bite to eat.
Note: There are no picnic tables or bathrooms so make sure you come prepared! 
Blue Swimming Hole, Cape Tribulation, QLD
Nestled away down a narrow, stone track is this beautiful swimming hole, which holds great significance to the Eastern Kuku Yalanji people. This pristine, sacred spot is a place for women only and visitors are asked to respect the site for cultural importance and preservation. You don't get many places as beautiful as this... Note: We're unsure of the current status of this area so it might be worth checking in with the locals to see if visitors are welcome. 
Mossman Gorge, QLD
Now we reckon you've seen this one pop up a couple of times on good old Insta... But it's honestly worth the hype! Nestled amongst the Daintree Rainforest is beautiful Mossman Gorge, the perfect place to swim, cool down and explore those postcard moments synonymous with Northern Queensland. Seriously touristy at peak times of the year, but oh so worth it! A guided dreamtime walk is also a great idea to learn more about the culture of the Kuku Yalanji people.
Cape Tribulation Beach, QLD
Now, you can't actually swim at Cape Trib beach, because crocs - of course! But a walk along this stunning coastline is jaw-droppingly stunning, albeit a dip in the cool ocean would be really nice too ! Alas, best to heed the warnings and not ruin your experience of paradise by a possible encounter with a croc. No siree. So look and maybe dip your toes in if you're brave before heading somewhere else to cool off.
Kiama, NSW
Love a good Ocean Rock Pool? This place has more than one! Kiama is actually home to Jem's in laws and we love seeing the stunning photos she takes while visiting! With loads of places to swim - you'll never get bored of this lovely, oceanside town. Known for it's famous blowhole, you'll get some insta-worthy footage up close and personal, but beware, you'll need to take a change of clothes.
Gundagai Swimming Pool, NSW
Now, you're probably thinking 'public pool?' YEP! This spur of the moment stop will hopefully turn into one of the best summer afternoons you'll have! With the most magical, retro tiles EVER, reminiscent of childhood trips to our local, it has everything that will surely pull at your inner 10 year old heartstrings! A special mention to the canteen which is still dishing up your classic Aussie faves, including FADS! (I'm sure you remember those delicious sugar sticks which have been renamed and banned in many a milk-bar since the 80's)
North Warrandyte Swimming Hole, Warrandyte, VIC
Now for our final destination, If you know - you know. A popular spot amongst Melburnians who don't want to drive too far to cool down, but want to avoid the beach on those extra steamy 37+ days... Warrandyte river is the ideal spot for a picnic or a nice float on your lilo! Even a DIY lazy river with perfectly timed pick ups and drop offs makes for one hell of an arvo. Now, we may be biased - but we still think this place is pretty perfect. Plus, how cute does little Jude look? 
With love xx
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