From picturesque swimming spots to Olympic-sized pools carved in rock, Australia easily boasts some of the world’s most spectacular ocean and beachfront pools. With a long history of providing beachgoers with protected places to swim, while encompassing the beauty of the sea and world famous scenery, taking the plunge into an ocean pool is now an Aussie tradition all its own. Here we take a look at some of the most iconic oceans baths Australia has to offer.
Bondi Icebergs - Sydney
Visit Bondi Icebergs. Image from Tourism Australia.
Perhaps Australia’s most famous coastal pool, Bondi Icebergs is synonymous with Sydney’s vibrant beach culture. At the southern end of iconic Bondi Beach, the Bondi Icebergs pool has been a Sydney landmark for over a century. Hewn into the headland, the pool’s crystal-clear waters are constantly replenished by refreshing ocean spray. Bondi Icebergs is open to the public for a fee all year round, with an Olympic-sized 50m lap pool and a smaller kids pool.
Bronte Baths - Sydney
Gorgeous Bronte Baths. Image from Tourism Australia.
Another much-loved gem on Sydney’s eastern beaches, and one of the top Sydney ocean pools, is the neighbouring Bronte Baths. Tucked into the sandstone cliffs of Bronte Beach, this ocean pool provides a more intimate swimming experience at around 38m long, and best of all it’s free to swim here. Opened in 1887, it was one of the first pools of its kind on the NSW coast and has long been a picturesque spot to while away a sunny afternoon. Nearby, the Bronte Bogey Hole is a natural swimming spot ringed by rocks, ideal for snorkelling.
Where to stay
Enjoy classic Art Deco elegance in the heart of Sydney at the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel, within walking distance of Circular Quay and The Rocks.
Merewether Ocean Baths - Newcastle
Head down to Merewether Ocean Baths. Image from Destination NSW.
The biggest in the Southern Hemisphere, the immense Merewether Ocean Baths is a local favourite in Newcastle, along with the nearby Newcastle Ocean Baths. Opened in 1935, the main lap pool stretches for 100m with 10 roped 50m lanes, and is free to enter. There’s also a smaller kids swimming pool and glorious hot showers to warm yourself afterwards. Time your visit for sunrise, and watch the baths transform into a magical scene, with the stunning morning sky mirrored on the surface of the pool and the ocean beyond.
Where to stay
Stay in contemporary serviced apartments at the Terminus Apartment Hotel, ideally located just moments from Newcastle city highlights.
The Strand Rockpool - Townsville
The Strand is one of Townsville's most popular destinations. Image from Tourism Australia.
Heading north to sunny Townsville in Queensland, the Strand Rockpool is a popular swimming spot on the Strand waterfront. A man-made saltwater lagoon right next to the beach, the Rockpool provides a safe and free swimming option. Perfect for escaping the tropical heat, the pool is set in landscaped surrounds dotted with palm trees, with lifeguards on duty and views of Magnetic Island.
Where to stay
You’ll find boutique and spacious accommodation at the Clarion Hotel Townsville, ideally located in the centre of Townsville.
Mettam’s Pool - Perth
Swim in the crystal clear waters. Image from Tourism Western Australia
A sheltered lagoon on the northern beaches of Perth, Mettam’s Pool is a popular spot for families and one of Perth’s best snorkelling spots. Part of the Marmion Marine Park, the natural ocean pool is protected by a limestone reef, creating calm and shallow waters ideal for snorkelling and paddling. Local WWI veteran, Frank Mettam, famously incorporated the reef in the 1930s to make the beach more accessible to swimmers. Today the rockpool is best accessed at low tide and low wind to see the colourful marine life and coral reef on display.
Where to stay
Enjoy a relaxing stay at the charming, heritage-listed Quality Hotel Bayswater, close to shopping centres and Perth attractions.
Brighton Baths - Melbourne
Brighton Baths holds a special place in Melbourne’s history. First established in 1881, the original baths were destroyed in a storm in 1934 and rebuilt. This iconic facility now combines a historic sea bath with modern amenities, with an Olympic-sized ocean pool and marked lanes ideal for timing laps, a wooden boardwalk and access to change rooms, showers and lockers. Brighton Baths are also home to the famous Icebergers, a group of open-water swimmers who brave the chilly waters of Port Phillip Bay all year round.
Where to stay
Plan your ocean pools Melbourne experience with a stay in comfortable and well-appointed accommodation at the Clarion Apartments South Melbourne.
Wave Lagoon - Darwin
Take the kids down to the Wave Lagoon in Darwin. Image from Tourism Australia.
While not an ocean pool in the traditional sense, Darwin’s Wave Lagoon deserves a special mention for its innovative design and purpose. Opened in 2009 on the Darwin Waterfront, it provides a safe and controlled environment for swimming and bodyboarding, protected from risks in the open water. Like its name suggests, the Wave Lagoon creates a swell with a variety of different wave patterns that gently reflect the ocean experience. Relax under big beach umbrellas beneath the palm trees or grab a boogie board and join in the fun.
Where to stay
After a big day at the Darwin waterfront wave pool, enjoy modern, resort-style accommodation conveniently located minutes from the airport at Quality Hotel Darwin Airport.
Kings Beach Beachfront Saltwater Pool - Sunshine Coast
Perched on the rocks at the northern end of Kings Beach in Caloundra, this oceanfront tidal pool is an idyllic spot on a hot day. Built in the 1930s, the pool is the only one of its kind on the Sunshine Coast, and features shade sails, a free 25m lap pool, and a children’s swimming pool and wading area, catering to all ages. The children’s pool also has a water fountain, which will keep the kids entertained for hours. A popular spot with locals and tourists alike, it provides a safe haven for swimmers to enjoy the water and still feel connected to the ocean.
Where to stay
Enjoy superb beachside accommodation at the nearby Bokarina Beach Apartments, with a cosy apartment for two or something spacious for the whole family.