Sydney’s famous opera house and bridge may be its top draws, but lesser-known gem is its ocean pools – there are more of them than anywhere else! These pools provide safe swimming areas for children or a quiet place to unwind with spectacular ocean views.
Aquatic centres in Sydney are truly treasures, with most located within 20 minutes of most people in the population. But not all aquatic centres are created equal, with outer suburbs like Parramatta boasting 134,000 residents living within 20 minutes of one pool while inner city areas like Randwick and Mosman only having about 30,000 near them compared with some rural and regional pools that only open seasonally limiting access even further.
Not only are Sydney’s pools conveniently located and maintained, they’re free of charge all year long (excluding peak times). That means for less than the price of one single overcrowded ferry trip you could enjoy a swim at one of Sydney’s picturesque swimming holes – so we urge you to support your community by visiting your nearest swimming hole this summer.
Bondi Icebergs, one of Australia’s iconic tourist spots, has recently closed for six months while it undergoes an $80 million facelift project. Work will include new change rooms, water play area and cafe; as well as the pool being resurfaced with glass-like coating that allows more natural water flow through its surface resulting in improved swimming experiences for guests.
Maroubra’s Mahon Pool is another top spot, nestled into an intertidal rock platform within Jack Vanny Reserve. Be prepared for a walk from the parking area; but the breathtaking views and sense of seclusion more than make up for any inconveniences encountered along the way!
Consider supporting local swim spots because the cost of visiting pools can quickly add up, especially in rural and remote locations where entry fees may run as high as $10 per visit – an outrageous sum that could easily be eliminated if all council pools were free-of-charge.