Sydney is a city full of aquatic gems, from the world-class North Sydney Olympic Pool to the awe-inspiring Prince Alfred Park Pool. Each is unique in its own way, and every one of them has a special place in my heart.
Most of the inner-city public pools are wonders in their own right, whether you’re taking a dip in the freezing waters of Prince Alfred Park or swimming around the ruins of an ancient Roman temple at the North Sydney Olympic Pool. There are also many ocean pools in the city, a perfect pitstop for a salty swim any time of year.
There are also several esoteric beaches and bushland pools in Sydney, where you can find a less-than-salty splash. The best of these spots are ideal for those who prefer a bit of solitude, but don’t mind swapping sand for a little water.
The famous Mahon Pool, for instance, sits on a rock platform overlooking Lurline Bay, which is prone to strong waves. While it’s not the best pool for wading in at high tide, it does offer some protection from the sou’westerleys.
If you’re looking for a more remote spot to slap your feet into the water, head over to the beautiful Coogee Beach. The 50-metre pool is a popular stop on the Bondi to Coogee walk, and you’ll often spot sunbathers and surfers in the water.
Despite its reputation as a raging tourist destination, Bondi Beach still offers a number of hidden gems for swimmers and sunbathers to enjoy, from the salty waters of the ocean pools to the more sheltered waters of the beachside swimming holes. Here are a few of our favourites:
Cabbage Tree Bay Pool
The oldest ocean pool in the city, this triangular 20-metre pool is casually positioned alongside the walking track of Cabbage Tree Bay. It’s a great stop for a quick dip any time of the year, and has a sculpture by Helen Leete that features the Sea Nymphs.
This pool is a great place to go to take a dip any time of the year, and has an incredible view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It’s a little tricky to get in and out of, and it can be slippery when the tide is low, so you may want to check the tide tables first.
Outback Pools
Outback Pools is a family-owned and -operated company that specialises in building custom-designed concrete pools, and can also organise the finishing touches like fencing, paving and heating for its clients. They build up to 50 pools per year, and service metropolitan Sydney and surrounding areas.
They have a team of experts who can install a pool that fits your needs and budget, and will make the process as smooth as possible for you. They also offer a range of services, such as piping and filtration.
You can even add a pool heater to your backyard, which will help keep the water at a nice temperature during the spring and autumn. It’s an affordable and environmentally friendly method of maintaining your pool at a comfortable temperature during the warmer months.