Bondi Beach, Sydney, New South Wales © Destination NSW
Sydney's best ocean pools
Take a dip in an ocean pool – a beautiful, refreshing and sustainable Australian institution.
The suburb of Balmain, known for its relaxed cafés, artisan bakeries and fashion boutiques, is also home to a sought-after swimming spot. Fittingly named after a legendary Australian Olympic swimmer, the Dawn Fraser Baths are believed to be the oldest of their kind in Australia. The tranquil harbour spot is also home to the nation’s first swimming club.
Manly, in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, is a picturesque half-hour ferry ride from the city centre. This seaside suburb basks in a relaxing atmosphere all year round, with many flocking to the coast for its excellent snorkelling. As the name implies, Manly's Fairy Bower Pool is a magical spot, with bronze sculptures and views over the famous Fairy Bower surf break.
Tucked among Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Bronte Beach offers a short but scenic stretch of sand and a row of cute cafés serving up delicious Aussie brunch. At the beach’s southern end is Bronte Baths, an ocean pool that dates back to 1887. Take advantage of this stunning spot with a few laps or a gentle paddle, protected from the surf.
Just to the south of Bronte, residents of the beachside suburb of Coogee are spoilt for choice when it comes to ocean pools. Try Wylie’s Baths, an ocean pool with great views of Coogee Beach and a real sense of history. Unwind amid the natural day spa with yoga, pilates and meditation classes, or book in for a seaside massage.
A comparatively new addition to Sydney’s lineup of ocean pools, Marrinawi Cove is one of the city’s most spectacular. Set in Barangaroo Reserve, a set of sandstone stairs lead to the famous blue-green water of Sydney Harbour. As you swim, watch ferries and boats drift by, soak in the city skyline and marvel at a whole new view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Bondi Icebergs is Sydney's most famous ocean pool for a reason. Not only is the pool an Instagrammer’s dream, but it also offers spectacular views over the golden sands of Bondi Beach. After a refreshing saltwater swim, grab a bite to eat at Bondi Icebergs Club and watch the surf – and the surfers – roll in.
