Sydney, lets dive into the best indoor, outdoor and ocean pools this summer!
Nothing beats the feeling of diving into a swimming pool. Whether it’s part of an indoor aquatic centre, outdoor or a world-famous ocean pool, that refreshing and invigorating feeling cannot be compared.
Thankfully, Sydney has some of the best swimming pools that are not only great to swim in, but they’re the perfect spot to take in some spectacular scenery. From natural rock pools to ocean pools in Sydney Harbour, we’ve got it all.
So, to help you cool down and splash around, we’ve found the 10 best swimming pools in Sydney of 2023. Just don’t forget your swimmers!
Photographed by Andre & Dominique. Image via Destination NSW.
Andrew Boy Charlton Pool
When we think of the best swimming pools in Sydney, the last place you’d be thinking of is the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. But, interestingly, that’s exactly where you’d find the Andrew Boy Charlton Pool. Set on the shores of Woolloomooloo Bay, this outdoor swimming pools makes for a tranquil and beautiful setting to take a dip or do some serious laps. There is an outdoor heated saltwater pool featuring eight lanes as well as a heated learners pool alongside seating. If you are looking for a snack after your swim, head to the Poolside Cafe that overlooks the pool and Sydney Harbour.
Photographed by Daniel Tran. Image via Destination NSW.
Bondi Icebergs Swimming CLUB
If you’re thinking of an ocean pool in Sydney, chances are you’re thinking of the world-famous Bondi Icebergs Swimming CLUB. Famed for its fabulous location, this outdoor swimming pool by the sea overlooks Bondi Beach and is open to visitors year-round. Although you do need to pay to use this internationally renowned ocean pool, you will also have access to their sauna, gym, massage rooms and, of course, mesmerising views of Bondi Beach and beyond.
Photographed by Keith McInnes. Image via Destination NSW.
Bronte Baths
There’s something about Sydney’s ocean pools that just make swimming that little bit more refreshing. And, Bronte Baths is no exception. Offering visitors beautiful views of Bronte Beach, this outdoor swimming pool in Sydney is perfect for all ages thanks to the wading tides making it great for those seeking a lap swim. Better yet, unlike other some other ocean pools in Sydney, Bronte Baths is free to access and makes for the perfect location to watch a sunrise or sunset.
Photographed by James Horan. Image via Destination NSW.
Fairy Bower Pool
Heading over the bridge? Welcome to the Fairy Bower Pool in Manly! This ocean swimming pool is not a traditional shape, so lap swimming is not that easy. However, this ocean pool has a brilliant location and an interesting history: built by local residents in 1929, today the Fairy Bower Pool features a range of sculptures that sit along the rock edge known as ‘The Sea Nymphs’ which were created by Helen Leete. A must visit in 2023!
Photographed by Sammii7. Image via Shutterstock.
The Geoff James Pool
The Geoff James Pool, also known as Clovelly Ocean Pool, is 25-metres long with four lanes and is located directly opposite Clovelly Beach. This ocean pool in Sydney is ideal for lap swimmers who are guaranteed to have beautiful views of the beach as well as the lush greenery of the surrounding Clovelly area. There are toilets, showers and cafes all located nearby and parking provided on the southern side of the bay. It’s no wonder why The Geoff James Pool is considered as one of Sydney’s best swimming pools!
Photographed by Hamilton Lund. Image via Destination NSW.
Maccallum Seawater Pool
Meet Maccallum Seawater Pool – one of Sydney’s best ocean pools that’s located on the western side of Cremorne Point. This 33-metre ocean pool is packed with heritage character and superb views. It is in fact a Sydney Harbour ocean swimming pool! Circled by a waterside timber deck that’s perfect for sunbathing, Maccallum Seawater Pool’s highlight is the white picket fence that enhances the architectural style that dates back to the 1920s. A must visit in 2023!
Photographed by Kajo Merkert. Image via Destination NSW.
North Sydney Olympic Pool
Welcome to the North Sydney Olympic Pool, possibly one of the best outdoor swimming pools in Sydney! Although it is temporarily closed and set to reopen in 2023, the North Sydney Olympic Pool is well worth keeping an eye out for. Sitting almost directly under the Sydney Harbour Bridge, this 50-metre heated pool promises front-row views to the CBD. On top of this, the venue also has a gymnasium, sauna, spa, cafe and an indoor 25-metre pool. Weekend plans sorted.
Photographed by Taras Vyshnya. Image via Shutterstock.
Prince Alfred Park Public Pool
If you’re in search of one of the best outdoor swimming pools in Sydney, this is for you. Set in the heart of the city, next to Central Station, is Prince Alfred Park Public Pool – the perfect getaway whenever you need it. The facility offers a state-of-the-art 50-metre lap pool, toddlers splash pad and a large shaded area to sit back and watch the swimmers or rest after your own swim. A must visit this summer 2023!
Image Supplied.
Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour
This list would not be complete without the addition of an infinity pool or two, and Sofitel Sydney certainly brings in the goods with its spectacular pool-side view of Darling Harbour. Also making our list as one of The 10 Best Hotel Pools in Australia; this rooftop pool, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, invites you to soak in Sydney’s sunlit skyline with a drink in hand thanks to their pool bar, Le Rivage (The Shore), which offers an extensive cocktail list along with an array of gourmet nibbles.
Photographed by Tilly Jensen. Image via Unsplash.
Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre
Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre is, of course, renowned for the 2000 Sydney Olympics. But, it is the home to one of the best swimming pools and most famed aquatic centres in Sydney. It houses four impressive indoor heated pools, a rapid river ride, giant water slide, a spa, sauna, steam room and a health club which are surrounded by lush palm trees and colourful mosaics. It is a sight to see and even more fun to swim in.
Or, if you prefer to sit poolside with a cocktail in hand, swim through our list of The 10 Best Hotel Pools in Australia of 2023. For white sand and crashing waves, this list of the Top 12 Most Beautiful Beaches in Australia of 2023 will have everything you need!
We acknowledge the traditional owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.
This article was first published on October 31 2019. It was updated and edited by Hunter and Bligh on February 23 2023.