Best summer water activities

Just Add Water

It's hot hot hot, and there's no better way to cool off than throwing on the swimmers and diving in the deep end. Whether you prefer to float in a pool or dive with marine life, there are plenty of ways to have some fun this summer.

Beach in Australia

Swimming

Swimming isn't only a great way to cool off, but it does wonders for your health and fitness too. Swing by your local pool and do some laps to get the heart rate up. Keep your swimming pool etiquette in mind and stick to the left side of the slow lane if you're taking it easy.

If you've got the kids in tow, they'll love a few hours at the pool too. Get them playing games like Marco Polo, enjoying swimming races or having comps to see who can dive in and fetch objects at the bottom of the pool the fastest. Just remember to protect sensitive little eyes from chlorine.

Beach bumming

Join the throngs of holidaygoers and pitch a sunsafe tent or umbrella on the sand. Pack a picnic lunch and a collection of bouncy balls and sandcastle equipment for the kids. Hop on the nation's official tourism website for a long list of beaches, coastal drives and touring routes across the country. Jumble the whole family in the car for a summer beach adventure along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria or the Pacific Coast Touring Route in NSW.

Surfing

If you're keen to be a part of Australia's surfing culture, it's never too late to grab a board and catch a wave. Visit Surfing Australia, Australia's peak surf organisation, for a list of surf schools, surf-related news and events. They've even included a list of surf clubs across the country for the perfect pit-stop after a day on the sand.

Kayaking

Kayaking and rowing are great ways to explore your local waterways while getting some good exercise at the same time. In fact, some say that just one hour of kayaking will burn 342 calories. It's ideal for a romantic sunset activity with your partner, or grab a bunch of friends, hire out a pack of kayaks and make a day of it. Make sure you check the maps before you take off and pack plenty of water, sunscreen and snacks.

Action sports

If you're looking for a more adrenalin-pumping water activity, how about water skiing, jet skiing or wakeboarding? The Australian Waterski & Wakeboard Federation has all the information you need to get started. You'll find plenty of great venues across the country where you can try out these sports in an encouraging, pressure-free environment.

Snorkelling

The Great Barrier Reef is Australia's underwater playground and one of the seven wonders of the natural world, so if you haven't been yet it's definitely time to explore this world-heritage listed haven. Plan a holiday on one of the nearby Whitsunday Islands and enjoy a diving or snorkelling adventure with friends, your partner or the family.

Backyard fun

If you've got little nippers, you could even enjoy a water adventure in your own backyard or local park! Set up an obstacle course that involves fun activities like water balloon throwing and bobbing for apples. Invite their friends around and host a summer party like no other!