9 of the best swimming holes within two hours of Perth

Locals know there’s nothing quite like a Perth beach – but did you know Perth and its surrounds are also home to dams, pools and lakes to cool off in?

Pack your bathers, start the car and head to these peaceful swimming holes within coo-ee of the city.

Or, if you're heading further afield, check out our favourite inland swimming spots across WA.

Note: Before visiting any of these locations to swim, be sure to check the Parks and Wildlife Service for any active water alerts.

1. Rocky Pool, Kalamunda

Set alongside the 5-kilometre Rocky Pool Walk trail within the Kalamunda National Park, this freshwater swimming hole is the perfect way to cool off after a challenging hike. The walk begins at the end of Spring Road in Kalamunda – but if you’d rather access the pool directly, head for the parking area at the end of Schipp Road; a short walk from the pool.

It’s best to visit the pool after a winter of heavy rainfall, when the water is in full flow and there are plenty of pockets to swim in - it may be a little on the dry side in the middle of summer. If you’d prefer to keep dry anyway, there are also plenty of shady spots along its banks where you can sit and dip your toes in.

2. Lake Leschenaultia, Chidlow

Lake Leschenaultia within the Shire of Mundaring is a fantastic swimming spot year-round. Surrounded by native bushland and with plenty of shade from tall trees, the lake has a white sand beach and a pontoon accessible via a short swim. The water here is calm, making it a great spot for kids or young families to enjoy a paddle.

RELATED: Fun things to do in Perth with kids

3. Oakley Dam, near Pinjarra

Located a short drive from the town of Pinjarra, the Oakley Dam is a popular picnic and recreational spot that sits alongside the famous Munda Biddi Trail for mountain bikers. To access the dam, park at the end of Scarp Road and take a short walk to the water. Here you'll find picnic tables, a few bushwalking trails and views out over the dam. Though swimming is allowed here, be wary that leeches often dwell in the water.

4. Scarp Pool, near Dwellingup

Swim among the rock-rimmed waters of the Murray River surrounded by lush forest at Scarp Pool. This idyllic swimming spot is located within Lane Poole Reserve near Dwellingup and has good access to the river. Take the looped road to reach the pool, where you'll also find plenty of picnic sites and canoe launch points.

5. Logue Brook Dam, near Harvey

The dog-friendly Logue Brook Dam is a peaceful spot for a day of swimming, paddling, canoeing and fishing. Located a 10min drive from Harvey, the dam also has a designated water-skiing area for those wanting an extra dose of adventure on the water.

To dry off, hit one of the dam’s surrounding nature trails – part of the famous Bibbulmun Track that weaves through the surrounding bushland.

6. Honeymoon Pool, Wellington National Park

Nestled along the tranquil Collie River, Honeymoon Pool is a popular spot for swimming, paddling and camping. Peppermint trees overhang the river, making the pool area shady and cool, even in summer. A handy decked area provides easy access down to the water.

Before swimming, consult local rangers about the pool’s water quality. The water can be potentially hazardous depending on the time of year you visit.

7. Black Diamond Lake, west of Collie

Arguably Collie’s most recognisable body of water, the crystal-blue waters of Black Diamond Lake provide fantastic opportunities for SUP’ing, kayaking and swimming. The water’s signature blue hue is believed to be the result of sunlight reflecting off its base limestone rock, and creates quite the unique photo opp.

Check the Shire of Collie’s regular water quality tests before swimming in the lake. Even if the test shows no microbes, the Shire does not recommend putting your head underwater.

8. Minninup Pool, Collie

Boasting lush forest views, the wide, peaceful Minninup Pool just south of Collie is popular amongst local photographers, kayakers and swimmers. It also happens to be one of the region’s most beautiful spots for a picnic, with plenty of tables and shady spots on the grass.

9. Long Pool, Collie

Home to a small picnic site, gorgeous surrounding forest and a convenient decked pathway that leads down into the water, Long Pool along the Collie River is a must-visit for those hunting for a peaceful, secluded place to swim. It’s located just a few kilometres upstream from the larger Honeymoon Pool, so it’s advised to arrive early to guarantee yourself a spot on its banks.