Sydney’s ocean pools are an enchanting natural phenomenon, offering some of the world’s most stunning and unique swimming spots. From Instagram-famous Bondi Icebergs to Coogee and Bilgola tide pools, Sydney’s coastline boasts stunning wild swimming holes nestled within rugged clifftops – not forgetting McIver’s Ladies Baths located in its eastern suburbs!
Tidal pools offer children the perfect spot for splashing around and swimming while being home to an abundance of ducks, geese, and other forms of wildlife. Perfect for family days outings as well as swimmers looking for somewhere less crowded for swimming lessons and lap swimming sessions.
These pools can be reached easily by walking along rocks at either end, or diving off of the left ledge ledge in dry weather. The rock ledge itself is quite grippy, making walking over it relatively effortless; once inside, the large, deep pool offers beautiful sun exposure while its clear waters make swimming enjoyable and safe in summer heatwaves. Exiting is just as straightforward; either slide off of one of the rocks at either end, or there are steps up the cliff that provide access.
Locals love this spot, making it the ideal spot to bring children on a sunny afternoon. There’s also a picnic table and toilets onsite – bring along your barbecue and make it part of lunch at the pool!
As there’s no lifeguard present here, however, this pool should not be left unsupervised with young children. Though slightly off the beaten track from Coogee Beach, this spot is well worth the short hike in. Though its water may be cooler than others here, this still provides a fantastic spot to spend some time by the seashore and go swimming!
At Coogee Beach and along the Southern Coastal Walk lies this spectacular tidal pool created by Henry Wylie (an accomplished long distance swimmer) in 1907. Boasting raised decking built into the cliffs and magnificent 180 degree ocean views toward Wedding Cake Island, it remains one of Sydney’s most picturesque tidal pools and remains Australia’s only women-only ocean pool.