Cardwell Spa Pool is a swimming hole at a naturally fed creek with fluctuating water levels throughout the year. The best time to visit this spa pool will be between May to September. But you can always check the water level at the spa pool by visiting
Cardwell Rainforest and Reef Visitor Information Centre.
The pools are located on Cardwell Forest Drive in the beautiful coastal town of Cardwell in Tropical North Queensland, approximately 2.5 hours south of Cairns and 2 hours north of Townsville by car. The road is unsealed but it is well-graded so you can even use a 2WD sedan.
This idyllic swimming spot has a striking blue colour that makes everyone wonder why. This spa pool was made by geological wonder. The blue colour of spa pool water is from high levels of dissolved magnesium and calcium in the waters. While the water travels from underground and flows to the creek, it picks up minerals from the sedimentary rocks.
Other resources claimed different things that made the spa pool water blue. Phytoplanktons (microscopic plants) are producing minerals as a by-product of dissolving bicarbonates in photosynthesis. The bicarbonates bind to clay particles in the water causing them to become shiny minerals. This composite material like calcite & aragonite is known as "Marl". Marl refracts light, causing the colour change. Either way,
There are a couple of things to put in mind before heading to this spectacular spot. The swimming spot does not have any public toilets or bins available. There is a parking spot but very limited. Please be mindful when you park outside the designated area. Sometimes people swim or use the causeway area and some mountain bikers also use Cardwell Forest Drive, so be careful when entering the road from the surrounding rainforest. Be prepared with insect repellent. Camping and fires are not permitted. Bring your camera as dry eucalyptus forest is a true oasis to be photographed
