While the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge are famous around the world, it’s less well known that the city has more ocean pools than any other in the world – some 35 of them. And while some are in disrepair, others are loved by locals and appear regularly on “must-do” and “best outdoor pools” lists.
A pool in Australia isn’t just a place to swim, it’s also a place for socialising and relaxation. Often with a gorgeous view, they can provide a spot to chill out, read and have a drink. That’s why concrete is such a popular material for swimming pools, which can be built in a wide range of shapes and sizes, to suit different needs.
Whether it’s a rockpool that’s built into the cliffs or a manmade pool with the feel of the beach, there’s something magical about Sydney pools. With their enticing scenic views, they’re an essential part of the Sydney experience. But what is it about these iconic pools that has made them so beloved?
One of the most striking is Bronte Baths, which was built in 1887 and remains a favourite for families and serious swimmers alike. The pool is at the end of the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk, a perfect way to enjoy a dip and a stroll. Its shabby charm and the fact that it is a natural ocean pool (no chlorine) attract people who love a little bit of history with their swim.
Another is MacCallum Pool, which was first created by residents in the 1920s as a safe harbour swimming pool above the high water mark. With stunning harbour views of the bridge and Sydney Opera House, it is a lovely pool for a swim or a picnic, especially with its shaded decking.
In contrast, sandstone South Curl Curl Rockpool is a more modest affair, but just as pretty. The pool sits on opposite ends of this pretty stretch of sand and is divided by an original wall dating back to the 1920s, separating the 50m pool from a shallow splash area for kids. It’s a favourite with parents, and at low tide it can be accessed by walking along the coastline to the northern headland and then slipping in to the water.
Meanwhile, the North Sydney pool has been beset by council infighting, accusations of pork-barrelling and a lack of transparency, and heritage concerns. As a result, the budget has ballooned to $100m and its opening date is now 2025. Independent federal MP Kylea Tink says the whole thing is a “really good example of how not to do an infrastructure project”. She and two allied councillors have voted against it 23 times since 2018, and she thinks the problem began when a $10m pre-election grant for women’s sports was pumped in to the inner-city pool, ratcheting up the cost without much public debate. “It’s not the bread and butter of local councils to do $60m, $70m projects,” she says.