As Australia’s most populous city, Sydney has an abundance of public pools. These are where most of us learn to swim, where many run laps and where we de-stress and enjoy the water. In fact, one of every two Australians visit a public aquatic centre each year. That’s almost twice as many people than go to church each week. Despite the love of water, however, not everyone can afford to buy a swimming pool. The western suburbs — in council areas like Parramatta, Penrith and Hills Shire — are some of the worst served, with just one pool for every 200,000 residents.
Sydney has more ocean pools than any other city in the world, with Cape Town the next closest. And that is quite a feat considering Australia’s rugged coastal terrain means it’s difficult to carve out a rock pool without the assistance of a team of engineers and masons. Nevertheless, we did it and the result is something pretty special.
The sandstone pools, lined with buttercup yellow umbrellas and surrounded by manicured lawns, feel like a slice of summer in the middle of the city. The 50-metre pool is always at that perfect jump-right-in temperature and there are shaded lounging areas to soak up the sun if you’re feeling a little too chilly.
This is the oldest harbour pool in the Southern Hemisphere and was home to Australia’s first swimming and water polo clubs. It’s a beautiful spot to spend the day, with its grandstand-style changing rooms and decks, a pontoon of diving blocks and 50-metre lanes that are ideally suited for training.
It’s easy to see why the pool is so loved – it’s a place where locals of all ages and backgrounds can come together to soak up the sun and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters. The pool is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and is a great spot for the kids, too, with designated swimming areas, lifeguards on duty and a picnic area.
It’s a pool that’s as beloved by locals for its history and location as it is for its modern, sleek design. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away behind the shops and offices on Pitt Street in the heart of the CBD. With floor-to-ceiling windows and a large deck to lounge on, it’s an elegantly designed recreational facility that also hosts fitness classes during the weekend. It’s a good choice for those who are looking to avoid the crowds at more popular pool spots in the city. A quick stop before work or after a workout is just the ticket.
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