Boulders Road, Babinda. All-abilities access to the main swimming hole.
Directions in Google MapsCrystal water and a firm line in the sand
The Boulders sit in rainforest at the foot of the Bellenden Ker Range, about 6 kilometres from Babinda and an hour south of Cairns. Babinda Creek runs between huge granite outcrops, making cascades and swimming holes.
Council looks after the site, with toilets, BBQs, picnic tables, a play area, walking tracks and viewing platforms.
Swim in the designated area only. Swimming downstream towards Devil's Pool and the gorge is prohibited, and the signs mean it.
Where you can swim at Babinda Boulders
There's a designated swimming area with all-abilities access to the main swimming hole. Stay inside it and obey every sign and barrier. Swimming downstream towards Devil's Pool and the gorge is prohibited.
Visit in settled weather and check conditions before you get in. Heavy rain can raise water levels and currents fast.
Facilities at the Boulders
- Picnic tables, seating and BBQs
- Toilets
- Walking tracks, viewing areas and platforms
- Play area and interpretive signs
- An unpowered campsite with basic amenities, maximum stay strictly 72 hours
- No dogs
Getting to Babinda Boulders
Take the Bruce Highway south to Babinda, about an hour from Cairns, then follow Boulders Road for about 6 kilometres out of town. Babinda is a council-listed RV Friendly Town, and the nearest RV dump point is at Babinda Rotary Park.
Babinda Boulders: good to know
Respect the signs
Swimming towards Devil's Pool and the gorge is prohibited.
Check the weather
Rain upstream can raise the creek quickly.
No dogs
Dogs aren't allowed at the Boulders.
Camping
Unpowered campsite, maximum stay 72 hours.
Babinda Boulders in pictures
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Where Babinda Boulders is
Boulders Road, Babinda
About 65 kilometres from Cairns, roughly an hour by car, and about 6 kilometres from Babinda township.
Open in Google MapsA southern waterfalls day
Josephine Falls is about 20 minutes further south. Add Paronella Park and you've got a full day.
Josephine Falls
A three-tiered waterfall with a natural rock slide, under Queensland's highest peak.
See the guide →Behana Gorge
A steep sealed walk to Clamshell Falls and granite pools. You earn this swim.
See the guide →Bartle Frere Trail
Queensland's highest mountain. A two-day trail for experienced bushwalkers only.
See the guide →Waterfalls & Paronella Park
Tablelands waterfalls and Paronella Park in one guided day.
Paronella Park Tickets
The Spanish-style castle ruins in the rainforest at Mena Creek.
Babinda Boulders FAQs
Can you swim at Babinda Boulders?
Yes, in the designated swimming area. Swimming downstream towards Devil's Pool and the gorge is prohibited.
How far is Babinda Boulders from Cairns?
About 65 kilometres, roughly an hour's drive.
Can you camp at Babinda Boulders?
Yes, there's an unpowered campsite with basic amenities. The maximum stay is strictly 72 hours.
Are dogs allowed at Babinda Boulders?
No.
Is Babinda Boulders wheelchair accessible?
There's all-abilities access to the main swimming hole.