Swimming in the Devil´s Pool

The Devil´s Pool also known as the Babinda Boulders is a recreation area near the Town of Babinda and not to far away from Cairns in the tropical north of Queensland.

The natural Pool known as the Devil´s Pool is a confluence of three streams between a group of big boulders.Even during summer the water running down these streams can be quite fresh, but also crystal clear and just perfect for a refreshing dip.

Not only the Devil`s Pool invites you to refresh yourself in the tropical weather. There are always smaller natural pools along the sometimes fast-flowing streams. However, you should enjoy them with caution and avoid them completely during the rainy season.

Looking at those photos it comes as no surprise that this is one of Cairns most favourite Pools and therefore can be crowded during holidays. The fact that it is settled in between a luscious rainforest makes it the prefect getaway on these sticky hot days.

Since the water is coming from the nearby Mt Bartle Frere it´s always fresh and clear.

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At the end all the 3 creeks flow into one big Pool, the Devil´s Pool. And if that Pool does not look inviting to you, you can stay outside and skim stones, as it is perfect for it.

But as nice as it all sounds and looks, there is also a negative side to this place. This area has claimed 17 lives already due to slippery rocks, rapidly rising water levels and fast flowing streams.

This leads us to

The Devil's Pool Legend

According to legend a beautiful girl named Oolana, from the Yidinji people, married a respected elder from her tribe named Waroonoo. Shortly after their union another tribe moved into the area and a handsome young man came into her life. His name was Dyga and the pair soon fell in love. Realising the adulterous crime they were committing, the young lovers escaped their tribes and fled into the valleys. The elders captured them, but Oolana broke free from her captors and threw herself into the still waters of what is now known as Babinda Boulders, calling for Dyga to follow her. As Dyga hit the waters, her anguished cries for her lost lover turned the still waters into a rushing torrent and the land shook with sorrow. Huge boulders were scattered around the creek and the crying Oolana disappeared among them.

Aboriginal legend says her spirit still guards the boulders and that her calls for her lost lover can still be heard.

Furthermore it looks a bit like that there could be crocodiles in the water as they are quite common in the tropical north. But luckily not in this area.

So be careful and watch your steps and you will be fine.

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Another thing that makes the Babinda Boulders a great destination, especially for travellers, is the free camping spot not too far from the Boulders. Free camping, toilets and even showers, what more could you want.

This was definitely a great stop on our great northern queensland tour. Highly recommended to stay here for at least one night.