For many Sydneysiders, a trip to the pool is an essential part of summer. And while the city is home to plenty of beaches, it’s also dotted with some truly iconic pools, ranging from shady, suburban backyard swim spots to luxurious infinity abodes overlooking the harbour.
The popularity of these ocean pools has skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic, with people keen to get their daily dip in and stay fit while they’re stuck at home. It’s not just a way to cool down on a hot day, either – they can be great for swimming and socialising in a scenic setting, making them an ideal alternative to the indoor gym or a long drive into the suburbs.
In fact, the trend for reopening ocean pools has been so strong that it’s become a central election issue. Lord mayor Clover Moore has rolled out the red carpet to bring back Harbour baths at Pyrmont, Elizabeth Bay, Barangaroo and Rushcutter’s Bay, while her rivals have promised to build more. It’s a major policy that could have an impact on the outcome of the local elections, which are due in just four weeks time.
But it’s not just public pools getting a revamp, private ones are also becoming increasingly popular. And one company, Swimply, has been at the forefront of this movement, connecting homeowners with pool-less Sydneysiders looking for a place to soak up some sun. The service is similar to Airbnb, allowing pool owners to create listings that can be searched and booked by Swimply customers.
And there are some interesting finds to be found, including a hidden pool in a Sardinian-inspired garden and a secret pool inside a shed in Newport. And if you’re still not convinced, there’s even a cliff-top pool with sweeping views of the sea.
But if you’re planning to visit the pools, make sure you’ve packed your swimmers in good condition – recent water tests have revealed that some pools are polluted with dangerously high levels of faecal contamination. Dawn Fraser Baths in Balmain and Mort Bay in Birchgrove tested at 10 times the safe level, while samples from Nielsen Park, Double Bay’s Redleaf and Murray Rose pool in Barangaroo were all more than double what they should have been. The problem was caused by sewage and animal waste, which is likely to be caused by the presence of dog poo on the beach and in the water. So, be careful and stick to the signs. But don’t let this put you off a visit to Sydney’s beautiful outdoor pools – they’re definitely worth checking out.