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Nymboida River Swimming Holes

IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE

Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.

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Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 0.0 sWind Speed 3.3 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase unknown

Last evaluated

Primary photo of Nymboida River Swimming Holes

The spot

Community-maintained

Community contribution: submitted by Daniel

Set deep within Nymboida National Park, about 1.5 hours west of Coffs Harbour, the Nymboida River carves through rugged gorges and sandstone escarpments, forming a series of deep, crystal-clear swimming holes. The river's cool, tannin-stained waters flow over ancient rock shelves into generous plunge pools perfect for a refreshing dip. Platypus Flats is the standout swimming hole — a broad, deep pool where platypus are often spotted at dawn and dusk. Surrounded by pristine dry rainforest and towering eucalypts, these wild, unspoilt swimming holes offer a true escape into nature with no phone service and a profound sense of remoteness.

Know before you go

Logged by the community, confirmed by mods

  • High risk: Flash flooding

    The Nymboida River can rise rapidly after heavy rain upstream, creating dangerous fast-flowing conditions. Check weather and park alerts before entering.

  • Moderate risk: Slippery rocks

    Riverbed rocks and banks around swimming holes are often coated with algae and can be extremely slippery, especially after rain.

  • Moderate risk: Strong currents after rain

    Following rainfall, currents can strengthen significantly, making swimming hazardous even in normally calm pools.

  • Moderate risk: Submerged debris

    Logs, branches and rocks may be submerged beneath the surface of swimming holes, posing a risk of injury when jumping or diving in.

  • Moderate risk: Hidden submerged objects (snags & debris)

    Submerged logs, rocks and debris can shift with river flow. Always enter slowly, feet first — never dive or jump in.

  • Moderate risk: Fast-flowing currents after rain

    Water levels and currents can rise rapidly after heavy rainfall in the catchment, creating dangerous conditions even in normally placid waterholes.

  • Low risk: Remote location - no phone service

    There is no mobile phone reception in the area. Limited access to emergency services requires self-reliance.

  • Low risk: Sudden drop-offs

    Waterholes can transition quickly from shallow edges to deep pools. Be mindful of depth changes, especially near rock ledges.

  • Low risk: Slippery riverbanks and rocks

    Granite boulders and banks become extremely slippery when wet, increasing the risk of falls when entering or exiting the water.

  • Low risk: Cold water temperature

    Mountain-fed waters remain very cold year-round, which can cause cold shock and rapid fatigue for swimmers.

Wildlife Guide

No wildlife notes for this spot yet.

3 photos from the community

Getting in

Shore entry
Entry

From Coffs Harbour, head west along the Waterfall Way towards Dorrigo, then follow signs to Ulong and Nymboida. Alternatively, take the Grafton road and turn off towards Nymboida village. Platypus Flats campground is accessed via a well-signed dirt road within Nymboida National Park. A 4WD is recommended after wet weather.

Parking & facilities

Unsealed parking areas are available at Platypus Flats campground and at various pull-offs along the river access roads within Nymboida National Park.

toiletspicnic_tablesparking

No entry fee for day use. Camping fees apply at Platypus Flats campground — bookings via NSW National Parks website.

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Conditions last evaluated
Spot data last updated
Data sources
Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
License
Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports