A full guide to visiting the well-known Babinda Boulders & Devil’s Pool near Cairns, Australia. Learn all about this famously haunted swimming spot and how to explore it safely.
Located in the green tropical rainforest near Babinda, you’ll discover the Babinda Boulders and Devil’s Pool. This area features clear blue water and large, unusual rocks, creating a beautiful scene.
Where can you find the Babinda Boulders
Babinda Boulders is a well-known swimming spot in Babinda, about 60 kilometers from Cairns on the A1 highway. The waterholes are filled by fresh streams coming down from the Bellenden Ker Range.
The swimming area is officially called Babinda Boulders. There’s also a spot called Devil’s Pool, a bit further downstream, which you can reach with a short walk from the same parking area.
Here’s how to reach the Babinda Boulders
It usually takes less than an hour’s drive from Cairns city to Babinda Boulders car park. This parking lot has lots of room for many cars. It also has picnic areas, BBQ spots, and restrooms.
When you get to the car park, walk past the toilets and head toward the creek. You’ll find a large swimming pool that’s about waist-deep.
Directions to Babinda Boulders car park
This is the main swimming spot at Babinda Boulders and a great place to cool off. When you get to the car park, walk past the toilets and head toward the creek.
You’ll find a large swimming pool that’s about waist-deep. This is the main swimming spot at Babinda Boulders and a great place to cool off.
What You’ll Find at Babinda Boulders
Depending on the season, the water could be fast-moving or gentle.The water is very clear, making it great for swimming or cooling off in Cairns’ hot tropical weather.
It’s best to plan for at least half a day from Cairns to fully enjoy this amazing spot.
Getting to Devil’s Pool
To the left of the car park, you’ll find a short walking path that leads to the Devil’s Pools.
This trail, called the Devil’s Pool walk, is about 700 meters long and takes you through beautiful rainforest typical of the wet tropics area.
As you walk, you’ll come across great spots to see the river rushing through the rocks. The Devil’s Pool track ends at a wooden platform with signs telling people not to swim.
Frequently asked questions about Babinda Boulders
How far is Babinda Boulders from Cairns city
Babinda Boulders is about 60 kilometers from Cairns on the A1 highway.
Is it safe to swim at Babinda Boulders?
Yes, you can swim at Babinda Boulders. It’s a favorite spot for locals and tourists. The main swimming area is marked near the creek entrance, just past the toilets. Swimming at the Devil’s Pool further down is not allowed.
How long do you need at Babinda Boulders?
It’s best to plan for at least half a day to enjoy this amazing spot fully.
Have There Been Any Deaths at Babinda Boulders?
Sadly, over 20 people have lost their lives at the Babinda Boulders.
Most of these deaths happened when swimmers were unexpectedly pulled downstream from the Devil’s Pool.
Can You Camp at Babinda Boulders?
Yes, you can. The locals say their town is RV-friendly. There’s even a free campsite next to the Babinda Boulders swimming hole where you can stay for up to 72 hours at no cost. Learn more about camping at Babinda Boulders.
Why is it called Devil’s Pool at Babinda Boulders?
It’s called Devil’s Pool because swimming there feels like facing death. This natural rock pool, located near Victoria Falls, is separated from the powerful waters by a rock edge. The danger of falling over the edge is what gives it its name.
