Babinda Boulders, Cairns
The Babinda Boulders are one of the best natural swimming holes near Cairns! Whether you're looking to explore the lush natural beauty of the Atherton Tablelands, or you want to just find a nice freshwater swimming spot, Babinda Boulders make an excellent day trip from the city. Here are some helpful things to know about visiting the stunning Babinda Boulders!
Image source: Queensland
What are the Babinda Boulders?
An hour south of Cairns and several kilometres outside of the township of Babinda is Babinda Boulders, a fabulous, croc-free freshwater swimming spot popular among locals and tourists. Babinda Boulders is named for its gargantuan granite boulders, smoothed down by millennia thanks to the cool freshwater streams that flow through the area. It's also home to the famous swimming hole known as Devil's Pool, which we'll discuss in detail later.
The crystal clear waters of Babinda Boulders are cool year-round, even during Queensland’s trademark heatwaves. This makes it an oasis for visitors and locals looking to escape the Far North Queensland heat. The cool waters that fill Babinda’s large pools spring from Queensland’s tallest mountain, Mt Bartle Frere (Chooreechillum), which towers over the national park. It's one of the most popular swimming locations near Cairns, in addition to the nearby Josephine Falls and Millaa Millaa Falls.
Aboriginal Lore of Devil's Pool at Babinda Boulders - Why is Devil's Pool Sacred?
Wondering why they call it the Devil's Pool? Local Indigenous legend tells of a lover’s tryst that ended in tragedy and led to the formation of the infamously treacherous Devil’s Pool at Babinda Boulders.
Long ago when these lands were inhabited by the Yidinji tribe, a beautiful young woman, Oolana, fell in love with a visiting tribesman, the handsome and graceful Dyga. Oolana — already wed to Waroonoo, an old, wise and respected elder — knew her love for Dyga would never be accepted. Thus, the two turned their backs on their tribes and escaped to the heights of the Chooreechillum, camping beneath the seclusion of creekside foliage.
Time, however, was not on their side, and eventually the lover’s tribes caught up with them. Dyga’s wandering tribe seized and chastised him for bringing shame upon their people before exiling him, whilst the Yidinjis dragged Oolana home.
On the Yidinjis' travels home, a heartbroken Oolana broke free and flung herself into the creek in anguish. As she wailed and screamed for Dyga the boulders beneath the stream trembled and the steady waters turned treacherous, swallowing her up and creating what we now call Devil’s Pool.
As legend has it, Oolana still haunts Devil's Pool, and can be heard calling young men to the water’s edge. Over the years Babinda has claimed the lives of some twenty people. So for those wondering, "Why do they call it the Devil's Pool", this legend explains it all!
Image source: Queensland
How to get to Babinda Boulders from Cairns
It's really easy to drive to Babinda Boulders from Cairns, and there are also some guided tours that include this swimming hole in the itinerary. From Cairns, drive about an hour south along the Bruce Highway until you reach the town of Babinda on your right. There are signs directing you to Babinda Boulders from the road! If you don't have your own car, you can rent one in Cairns. Or consider hiring a campervan for an elevated road trip experience! If you're exploring the Atherton Tablelands on a guided tour, all you have to do is relax and let your tour guide handle the directions.
How long is Babinda Boulders walk?
The walk to Babinda Boulders is about 20 minutes from the parking area and picnic grounds. It’s a relaxing 1.3 kilometres round trip walk along a winding footpath to reach the watering hole. Nearby you can also access other highlights of Babinda Boulders, such as the Devil’s Pool Lookout, Boulders Lookout, and Boulder Gorge Lookout. This is a moderately easy walk in and out, and is a great trip for families and groups weather permitting.
Visit Babinda Boulders on one of these day trips from Cairns!
Is it safe to swim at Babinda Boulders?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to swim in Babinda Boulders as long as you adhere to the posted signage. There are certain pools that are safer for swimming than others, so you should always stick to the designated swimming areas and still use caution when you approach the water.
Always wade out into the water you plan on jumping into first to check for depth, rocks, branches and other underwater debris. Queensland is prone to torrential rains during its wet season (summer) which can drastically impact walking tracks and water levels, as well as churn up underwater debris like rocks, branches and trees. There are signs at entry to Babinda Boulders that advise of the safety measures you need to have a safe and successful day in the rainforest!
Is Babinda Boulders worth visiting?
Due to its refreshing swimming hole, tranquil scenery, proximity to Cairns, and fascinating indigenous folklore, Babinda Boulders is definitely worth visiting! It's a beautiful place to escape the Queensland heat and immerse yourself in the serenity of the rainforest. Plus, it's only an hour from Cairns, making it a super easy and accessible day trip from the city. So pack your swimmers, bring some friends, and get ready for an unforgettable day in the wilderness!
