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Apex Beach, Tocumwal
Swimming Hole Heaven in Victoria


 
For inexperienced swimmers who want to experience a swim in the River Murray, Apex Beach has a shallow inlet, protected from the strong currents. The inlet has been carved into the bank at the downstream end of the beach, noting that it may be submerged in spring and early summer. Apex Beach, Tocumwal Above: The shallow inlet in the bank of the River Murray at Apex Beach, Tocumwal (Order this image)

The beach here is narrower than other beaches in the area, but still wide enough for several rows of shade canopies. The sand extends well out into the water as a shallow sand bank. The narrow beach means that there is tree cover providing shade relatively close to the edge of the water.
This makes the spot popular with campers and RVs, with spots rarely available at peak times, and campers remaining here well after other beaches have been deserted. Because the access road to the Apex Beach turnoff is shared with the local caravan park, I found the road surface to reach this spot better graded and wider than the bush tracks that lead to other beaches in the area. Apex Beach, Tocumwal Above: The view across the River Murray at Apex Beach, Tocumwal (Order this image)

There also seemed to be more boat traffic here, with water skiers going up and down, so you need to keep your head up if swimming further out in deeper water.
As with all spots along the River Murray around Tocumwal, the current can be strong even a short distance from the river bank and impossible to swim against in the main channel near the opposite bank, so be mindful of where you are in the water and that it matches your swimming capabilities. Apex Beach, Tocumwal Above: Camping alongside the River Murray at Apex Beach, Tocumwal (Order this image)
Other Information Before You Go:
Location: Accessible from Pump Bend Track, directly west of Tocumwal town centre on the Victorian side of the river, 270 km (approx. 3 hr drive) north of the Melbourne CBD
Latitude:-35.813229 Longitude:145.546658
Getting there: From the Goulburn Valley Highway (A39) head west along Bridge St / Pump Bend Track 400 metres south of the River Murray bridge. Follow Pump Bend Track for 700 metres, up over the railway line, until you see the small sign to Apex Beach. Follow this track for 500 metres heading north then west until you see the beach, which will usually have campers present. The access road was gravel, but suitable for 2WD vehicles on my visit, but might not be suitable for 2WD vehicles after wet weather or local flooding.

Facilities: None
Entrance fee: None
Water temperature: Mild
Water clarity: Clear
Under foot: Sand
Maximum water depth: Greater than 2 metres
Minimum swimming proficiency required: Beginners, under supervision, in the shallow beach area. Elsewhere experienced swimmers only due to the strong current.
Prohibitions including whether you can bring your dog: Dogs permitted. No littering. No collecting firewood. No fishing for Murray crayfish.
Sun shade: Shade available out of the water
Opening times: Always open. Road access to this site can be closed when the river is in flood.
Wheelchair access: None
Managing authority: Parks Victoria
Nearby attractions: Mulberry BeachFinley Beach, which are the two closest beaches upstream on the Victorian side of the river, roughly 1.5 km to the east
Before you head out, make sure to read the swimming safety information and check with the managing authority for any current change of conditions. Specific to this site, the managing authority advises that there are strong currents, submerged objects, and that tree limbs may fall. The managing authority also warns to drive carefully on the gravel roads.
Locality Map:
The marker indicates the approximate location of Apex Beach. If the map is not zoomed in locally, as can occur with some browsers, simply click or tap on "View Larger Map" below.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Can kids swim at Apex Beach? Yes, this is one of the better spots for kids along the River Murray, being on the inside bend of the river with gradual entry to the water and a shallow inlet at the downstream end of the beach.

Can I camp at Apex Beach? Yes, it is a popular spot for campers and RVs, but campsites are limited

Can my dog swim at Apex Beach? Yes, dogs are permitted here.

Are there toilets at Apex Beach? No, there are no toilet facilities here, so you need to head back to town or down one of bush tracks on the opposite side of the highway where there are toilets near Finley Beach.

Can I go fishing at Apex Beach? Yes, with a fishing permit. It is not permitted to catch River Murray crayfish.

Can I have a picnic at Apex Beach? Yes, on the beach, but there are no picnic tables or water taps here (that I could see) and you have to carry your rubbish home with you.

If you have any other questions not answered above, leave a comment for me using the comment box below.
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