Sydney stands out as a city full of beauty and tranquillity with the largest collection of ocean pools anywhere, with 35 to be exact. They can be found all around town from Bondi and Bronte rocky coves to Maroubra and Double Bay beaches – each boasting their own special ocean pool!

Tidal pools have long been an attraction for swimmers of all stripes. Locals and tourists alike come here to swim, walk, picnic and simply soak up the sun, sea air and salty breezes. Tidal pools have long been an integral part of our urban landscape – drawing visitors while providing prideful locals a place where they can safely bathe or swim safely, while providing shelter from strong waves from off the ocean. Tidal pools make an integral part of urban life as an essential amenity. Tidal pools serve two essential functions – draw tourists while providing pride among locals alike – by providing an essential amenity: access. Tidal pools also serve a dual role: providing safe swimming environments while providing shelter against strong waves from rolling in off the ocean waves by creating deep enclosures made out of carved-into sheltered enclosures carved-into rocks to provide deep sheltered enclosures where people can safely bathe while also protecting from them strong waves coming in from.

Public authorities commissioned many pools to provide water for bathing and swimming purposes in rural regions that lacked freshwater sources, particularly where access was limited. Some were constructed specifically to serve specific groups like children or the elderly while others blended seamlessly into nature such as Pittwater’s mangrove pools. Furthermore, governments provided generous funding for regional communities far removed from natural water resources through state programs such as Western Australia’s “Ribbon of Blue”.

Sydney’s love affair with its iconic pools dates back over 200 years, and it’s hard to imagine our city without them. Yet recent spate of closed pools has called into question their future viability as treasured waterholes.

No one enjoys hearing of extended timelines and increased budgets for beloved facilities like North Sydney Pool. With nearly double its original budget estimated to cover an upgrade designed by Brewster Hjorth which may remain closed until 2026, rates have been raised 87 per cent over two years in order to cover this project.

Mahon Pool can be found at the base of Jack Vanny Reserve south of Maroubra and accessible via coastal walking track, offering spectacular views and seclusion among exposed rock outcrops. While not heated, its tidal flow makes for cooler waters than expected – perfect for leisurely swims and sunbathing alike.

Murray Rose Pool (sometimes referred to as Redleaf Beach) is another picturesque harbourside tidal pool at the northern end of Double Bay, situated along the waters edge. Offering safe harborside swimming conditions and beautiful harbour views with ample space for sunbathing or picnicking – plus close proximity to shops and restaurants of Double Bay!