The mercury is rising, the days are getting longer and Sydney-siders are getting closer and closer to freedom.
We’re dusting off our goggles and pulling out our favourite swimsuits in anticipation of freedom day. These ocean pools and baths across there city will be the place to be this summer, so get in early and make it your local.
Be sure to plan a visit to these gorgeous public pools in Sydney as soon as you can.
Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens with the sparkling Andrew Boy Charlton Pool. © Ethan Rohloff for Destination NSW
Andrew Boy Charlton Pool in Sydney harbour
Overlooking the wharves of Woolloomooloo, this saltwater olympic pool is set along the edge of The Domain’s 34 hectares of parkland. Whether you’re there for a serious workout or just to relax with your toes in the water, you’ll be welcome to lap up the stunning views and friendly atmosphere all throughout the season. You might even catch an alfresco yoga session!
Dawn Fraser Baths, Balmain. © Destination NSW
Dawn Fraser Baths, Balmain
One of the most iconic public pools in Sydney, the dawn Fraser Baths are incredibly popular during the summer season but there’s plenty of room to spread out. These historic baths make up the oldest harbour pool in the Southern Hemisphere, built all the way back in the 1880s when Australia’s first ever swimming and water polo clubs were born. Today, you can still see the Victorian wooden pavilions surrounding the pool in their striking white and green colours.
Early morning swim at Bondi Icebergs. © Destination NSW
Bondi Icebergs, Bondi
There’s no way we could leave this one off the list. It is, after all, the world’s most famous ocean pool. Perched on the edge of Sydney’s iconic Bondi headland, most visitors come here just to snap a pic of the idyllic surrounds, but we reckon you should go the extra mile and take a dip. The pool was built back in 1929 and has had a die-hard local following since its inception.
Ocean pool at Sydney’s northernmost beach. © Destination NSW
Palm Beach Ocean Pool, Palm Beach
Right on the northern cusp of Sydney, Palm Beach is an über popular weekend spot among locals but it’s not uncommon for people to travel great distances to sun themselves on the shores of this picturesque beach. The ocean pool offers views across to the Central Coast and is overlooked by Barrenjoey Headland. If you really want to earn your refreshing dip, take on one of the hiking trails that leads up to the lighthouse – the views are unbeatable.
Hidden leafy entrance to Wylies Baths, Coogee. © Destination NSW
Wylie’s Baths, Coogee
A 15-minute drive from Bondi, Wylie’s is another local favourite with a raised deck overlooking the Pacific Ocean and nearby Wedding Cake island. This tidal pool is the perfect spot to soak up some rays on a sunny day. There’s also an onsite restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat and regular yoga classes if that’s your thing.
Shelly Beach Ocean Baths in Cronulla. © Destination NSW
North and South Cronulla
In Sydney’s south, you’ll find plenty of options lining the beaches of Cronulla. Younger swimmers might enjoy a visit to the small, shallow North Cronulla Rock Pool while lap swimmers can head across to South Cronulla where an 8-lane, 50-metre lap pool provides the perfect place for a good workout. The further along Cronulla’s gorgeous coastal walk to go, the more ocean baths you’ll find – and they truly are some of the most stunning public pools in Sydney, so be sure to visit more than just one.
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