YHA Pools You’ll Love: Cool Off in Style This Summer

When it comes to booking accommodation for an Aussie summer, there’s one question that’s always top of mind: does it have a pool? While air conditioning can keep you cool, there's nothing quite like a refreshing swim to make you feel relaxed and ready for your next adventure. From tropical escapes to bustling city stays, YHA (Youth Hostels Australia) has some of the most stunning pools around the country. Whether you're unwinding after a day of sightseeing or just soaking up the sun with friends, these pools offer the perfect spots to kick back, cool off, and make the most of summer.

Here’s a roundup of some of the best YHA pools that will have you packing your sunscreen and swimwear in no time.

1. YHA Brisbane City | Queensland

If you’re after a pool with a view, look no further than YHA Brisbane City. Perched above the Brisbane River with sweeping views of the city skyline, the pool here offers one of the best urban vistas in the city. Spend your days lounging poolside and taking in the iconic views of Brisbane's CBD, or take a refreshing dip and watch the city buzz below. It’s the ideal place to relax after exploring the city’s top attractions, including South Bank, the cultural precinct, and the bustling Queen Street Mall.

2. YHA Cairns Central | Queensland

In the heart of Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, lies YHA Cairns Central—an urban retreat with a beautiful pool surrounded by tropical gardens. Cairns is famous for its stunning natural beauty, and the YHA pool offers the perfect place to cool off after a day of exploring the reef, rainforest, or the bustling Esplanade. With its laid-back vibe and lush tropical surroundings, the pool at YHA Cairns Central is the ideal spot to relax and recharge in style.

3. YHA Byron Bay | New South Wales

Byron Bay’s laid-back beach vibes are legendary, but sometimes the sand can be a little much—especially when you’re looking for a peaceful place to unwind. Enter YHA Byron Bay. This serene hostel features a beautifully landscaped pool just steps from your room, surrounded by lush greenery. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the comfy daybeds or taking a dip to cool off, it’s the perfect spot to chill after a day of exploring Byron Bay's famous beaches, cafes, and shops. Just don’t forget your sunscreen!

4. YHA Sydney Central | New South Wales

In the heart of Sydney, YHA Sydney Central offers something truly unique—an indoor rooftop pool! Hidden away at the top of the hostel, this rooftop oasis provides stunning views of the Sydney skyline, with the iconic Sydney Tower and Darling Harbour in the distance. It’s the perfect place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing. You can even take a dip in the pool while planning your next adventure in Sydney, whether it’s heading to Bondi Beach or exploring the city’s vibrant food scene.

5. YHA Alice Springs | Northern Territory

Located in the heart of the Australian outback, YHA Alice Springs offers a refreshing pool that’s perfect for cooling off in the intense desert heat. After a day spent exploring the iconic red sands and rugged landscapes of Alice Springs, you’ll appreciate this oasis of calm. Dive into the cool water and then kick back with a drink or catch an outdoor movie under the stars. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or meeting new people, this is the ideal spot to unwind after a day of outback adventure.

6. YHA Cape Byron | New South Wales

For a truly chilled-out experience, YHA Cape Byron is the place to be. This coastal gem features a beautiful pool surrounded by palm trees, hammocks, and deck chairs, creating the perfect tropical retreat. Whether you’re after a splash-filled afternoon with new friends or a quiet spot to read your book, this tranquil pool offers a slice of paradise. Located just a short stroll from Byron Bay's famous beaches and vibrant town centre, it's a great base for exploring the area while enjoying the relaxed vibes of Cape Byron.

Other YHA Pools You’ll Love:

And that’s just a taste of the stunning YHA pools across the country! There are plenty more places to dive in and cool off at YHA hostels, including:

• YHA Coolangatta | Queensland – Just moments from the beach, this pool offers the perfect coastal vibe.
• YHA Hervey Bay | Queensland – A great spot to unwind before or after exploring Fraser Island.
• YHA Port Macquarie | New South Wales – A fantastic pool with views of the lush surrounding landscape.
• YHA 1770 | Queensland – A beautiful pool in the heart of the Tropics, perfect for a cooling swim after a day of adventure.
• Samurai Beach Bungalows (Port Stephens) | New South Wales – A laid-back, tropical pool setting just minutes from the beach.
• Rockhampton Backpackers | Queensland – Take a dip in the pool and soak up the sunshine in this relaxed Queensland town.
• YHA Darwin | Northern Territory – Perfect for a swim after exploring the Top End’s wildlife and natural wonders.
• Kalbarri Backpackers | Western Australia – A quiet retreat with a lovely pool to help you unwind in Western Australia’s coastal beauty.
• Excape Backpackers (Exmouth) | Western Australia – This pool is the perfect place to cool off after visiting Ningaloo Reef.

Book Your Next Stay at YHA

With so many beautiful pools across the YHA network, your next Aussie summer adventure is bound to be filled with plenty of opportunities to relax, cool off, and meet new people. Whether you're in the tropics of Cairns or soaking up the sun in Byron Bay, YHA hostels offer not just a place to stay, but an experience to remember.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your swimsuit, book your stay, and get ready to dive into summer at YHA!