Pros & cons
PROS
- Sandy beach with calm, swimmable water
- Short, easy walk from the car park
CONS
- Packed on hot weekends; parking fills early
- No toilets at the pool; pack out all rubbish
Overview
Jellybean Pool is the Glenbrook area’s classic cool-off spot: a natural, bean-shaped swimming hole on Glenbrook Creek with a sandy beach, ringed by warm sandstone and eucalypt bush. It’s a quick down-and-up stroll, easy enough for a family day out, and close enough to Sydney for a spontaneous swim.
What You’ll See
Expect a broad, sheltered pool with shallow, wade-in edges that deepen toward the middle, sandy shores for lounging, and ochre sandstone cliffs that glow in the sun. The water can look blue-green or tea-brown depending on recent rain and light, but it’s typically clear and inviting.
Swimming & Safety
Great for paddling with little ones at the edges and proper swims further in. On hot days you’ll see confident swimmers exploring deeper sections and occasional rock jumps—always check the depth and for submerged rocks first. After rain, creek conditions can change quickly; use extra caution.
Wildlife
Look and listen for birdlife overhead—currawongs and rainbow lorikeets are regulars, with other species appearing seasonally. Around the edges you may spot frogs or water dragons if you sit quietly.
Getting There & Parking
Access is via the short Jellybean Track from the Glenbrook area car parks. The walk down uses steps; the return is a steeper climb. Parking is limited and fills fast on hot weekends, and a park entry fee applies.
Nearby Options
If it’s shoulder-to-shoulder here, Blue Pool is another short-stroll swimming hole in the same area and makes an easy add-on.
Best Time to Visit
- Weekdays or early mornings in summer for lighter crowds and easier parking.
- Late afternoon brings more shade on the beach; midday can be hot with limited shade.
- After rain, expect higher, faster water and reduced clarity—save the swim for calmer conditions.
Where it is
-33.7811, 150.6188Tips for Jellybean Pool
- 01Arrive early on warm weekends to snag parking and space on the sand.
- 02Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and your own shade.
- 03Wear sturdy shoes for the stepped descent and the climb back up.
- 04Check water depth before any rock jumps and be cautious after rain.
- 05Have Blue Pool as a backup if crowds are overwhelming.
Amenities
Near Jellybean Pool
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayGlenbrook Gorge Walking TrackShort, rugged gorge scramble with swims near Sydney’s edgeChallenging · 2 mi · 1.5 hr
0.2 mi awayJellybean Walking TrackShort, kid-friendly descent to a sandy swimming hole in a gorgeEasy · 0.6 mi · 30 min
0.2 mi awayNPWS Visitors Centre GlenbrookGateway hub for maps, advice, and nearby swims and walksVisitor Center · Store
0.3 mi awayBlue Pool walking trackQuick stair-step to a ferny swimming hole on Glenbrook CreekEasy · 1 mi · 1 hr
0.4 mi awayBlue PoolSecluded bush-fringed swimming hole a short walk from GlenbrookTrailhead · Parking
0.4 mi awayGlenbrook GorgeRugged creek gorge with wild swims and fewer crowdsTrailhead · Parking
0.5 mi awayTunnel View LookoutQuiet gorge panorama with a peek at historic railway tunnelsTrailhead · Parking
1.4 mi awayNepean lookout walking trackShort bushwalk to a dramatic, unfenced Nepean River gorge lookoutEasy · 0.8 mi · 30 min
