Summer’s almost here, and what’s the best way to cool down than a refreshing dip in a swimming hole? Now many of us think of Gold Coast Holidays for summer vacations. However, tucked away along the shores of Australia’s Art Capital–Melbourne, are some fabulous summer hot spots for swimming and summer fun. Plus, you have lots of options here. From beaches, lakes, to indoor pools, you don’t have to travel far to cool off this summer. The only thing you have to worry about is finding a good spot that’s not too crowded. Check out these amazing swimming holes in and around Melbourne.

BEACHES

Half Moon Bay

Image by www.halfmoonbaygolf.com

Let the kids frolic on the sands or take a dip at the calm, shallow waters. Take a break from swimming and soak up some vitamin D as you lay down on the sandy shores. Don’t want to deal with huge, rowdy crowds? Then this beach is the perfect spot because of its secluded location.

Brighton Beach

Image by www.churchstreetbrighton.com.au

What would summer be without a sunny day at the beach? Head to Brighton and marvel at the colourful bathing boxes that line the foreshore. The pastel-coloured bathing boxes provide a gorgeous background for a postcard-perfect selfie. Swim the day away at the beach, or pump it up with a surfing session.

FRESHWATER HOLES

Pound Bend

Image by www.thedaycationdiary.com

Just 35 km away from Melbourne CBD, Pound Bend is an idyllic spot for an afternoon dip. Enjoy a soothing massage as the gentle currents lap around you. You don’t have to worry about huge crowds cramping your spot because of its location. Munch on a filling lunch after a swim at the picnic area that’s complete with wooden tables and benches. Bring the kids and let them run around the grass. Watch out for koalas sleeping on tree tops.

Lysterfield Lake

Image by Ben Perrin at Flickr

Swim, sail, or paddle a boat around Lysterfield Lake, one of Melbourne’s top swimming spots. Your kids will definitely enjoy the wide, open spaces. Give your toddler a swimming lesson at any of the well-protected swimming bays; the calm waters provide a relaxing atmosphere. Have a quick snack at the picnic areas, then hop on a bike and explore the lake’s lush greeneries. You get to choose from a variety of biking and walking trails since the lake is conveniently located inside a park.

INDOOR POOLS

Fitzroy Pool

Image by www.urbanenergy.com.au

Get some exercise while you cool down at the Fitzroy Pool, an iconic spot that continues to attract locals and tourists. Do a couple of laps across the pool’s clear waters to warm yourself up. Hop into the sauna room and let the steam cleanse your skin, clear your airways, and soothe those aching muscles. Plan your trip on weekdays to avoid the crowd.

Olsen Pool Club

Image by www.aplphotography.com.au

Looking for a swanky place to spend the afternoon away with the girls? Head to the Olsen Pool Club, a swimming spot that’s open every Sunday from 2pm to 7pm. Put on your best bikini, grab a coconut cocktail, and soak up some sun at the lounge chairs. Take a dip at the pool as you enjoy the modern and stylish vibe. If you’ve always dreamed of visiting Bali or LA, book a room at The Olsen for free pool access. If you’re not a hotel guest, don’t worry. You can still hangout here for a small fee.

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Melbourne’s local swimming spots are the perfect remedy for a searingly hot afternoon, and they come with plenty of family-friendly amenities. Aside from these favourite spots, check out nearby cities and tourist hubs—you won’t run out of options in and around Melbourne. Once you’ve picked a destination, don’t forget to book your Melbourne airport parking with Alpha for a more fun-filled holiday.

To get there and make the most of every sunshine hour, you can also hire a car from Alpha and explore Melbourne to your heart’s content. Best of all, if it’s just you and your bestie, you can go for a small compact car with rates starting from $22 per day. If you prefer an SUV for all the kids and the luggage, Alpha has a range of late model reliable vehicles to suit. Plus, Alpha makes it easy with their courtesy shuttle collecting you at the airport. Make your trip easier and that summer holiday a little closer with a budget-friendly and convenient Melbourne car hire.