Whether it’s a refreshing morning swim, a leisurely afternoon dip or a post-work splash with friends, there’s nothing quite like a sidney pool. From the infinitely Instagrammable Bondi Icebergs to the hidden ocean pools tucked away in Sydney’s northern beaches, these iconic swimming spots make for a truly once-in-a-lifetime bucket list experience.
From the roar of competition-length lanes to swaying palm trees and the smell of chlorine, the best pools in Sydney will whisk you to your happy place. Feel like an Olympic champion as you race down the ten competition length lanes at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre, or spend your time floating in the lap pool. If you’re feeling a little bit adventurous, try drifting on the Rapid River or shooting down the 295-foot slide at Splashers Water playground.
There are plenty of other pools in Sydney, too. Leichhardt Park pool combines old and new, with a pastel pink dive tower adding a retro vibe to this city swimming spot. It’s the ultimate pool to hit on a sunny summer day, with its 50-metre lengths and shaded lounging area, plus it plays host to fitness classes and weekend events. After your swim, head to Rozelle Markets for a hearty meal.
For those who prefer a quieter swim spot, there’s Cook Phillip Park pool, which is nestled into the busy CBD and fronts floor-to-ceiling windows that let you soak up the sunshine from inside the water. This opulent urban swimming pool is the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon or even to do some morning laps, with a full schedule of water aerobics and aqua fitness classes. The pool also has a sauna and steam room for you to relax in after your swim.
Previously known as Heffron pool, this large community pool was renamed after Aussie long-distance swimmer Des Renford in 2000. The pool is open from Memorial Day through two weeks before Labor Day, and it’s a popular spot for young competitive swimmers to practice their skills. The pool is also equipped with a one-meter diving board, and the Warringah Aquatic Centre offers swimming lessons and water aerobics classes for all ages.
In addition to offering breathtaking views, Bondi Icebergs is a true icon of Sydney’s beach culture. This famous swimming pool is a must-see for visitors to the city, and it’s been around for almost 100 years. It’s also the only place in Australia where you can see a polar bear in the wild. This iconic beach is also home to McIver’s Ladies Baths, the only female-only ocean pool in the Southern Hemisphere that dates back to 1907. If you’re looking for a more secluded swim spot, check out Coogee’s Wylie’s baths, or the tidal pools tucked into Sydney’s cliffs at South Curl Curl and Bilgola. They’re all a sight to behold, and they give you the best possible view of the world-famous coastline.