These are vignettes of a typical Australian summer. It’s a world depicted in shows like Puberty Blues and Home and Away, where your place in the social hierarchy is determined by the strength of your tan lines and shoes are always optional.

Surf culture and sandy white beaches are the first things that come to mind when we think of spending time by the water in Australia, but there is so much more on offer for swimmers with a taste for adventure. A quick flick through the pages of Places We Swim provides ample proof, and motivation. Written by Caroline Clements and documented by Dillon Seitchik-Reardon, the swimming guide catalogues some of Australia’s best wet and wild places.  

Covering beaches, pools, waterfalls, lakes, hot springs and gorges, the tome (and its follow-up Places We Swim, Sydney) makes a beautiful addition to any coffee table book collection. Filled with photogenic landscapes that you’ll want to dive straight into, it will also convince you to get off the couch and explore the country’s lesser-known swimming spots.  

With warmer weather on our doorstep (and la niña currently in hibernation), we asked Places We Swim author Caroline Clements to share her favourite destinations for a dip. From a freshwater gorge in regional Victoria to a perfectly formed natural pool in South Australia, these are her under-the-radar picks to add to the itinerary for your next road trip.