Sydney’s coastline, stretching from Palm Beach in the north to Cronulla in the south, boasts a large amount of ocean and rock pools.
Most major beaches in Sydney feature one or more man-made rock pools, many of which hold significant historical value.
In this article, we’ll showcase 10 of Sydney’s best ocean and rock pools (excluding Bondi Icebergs!) where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in beautiful surroundings.
We’ve organised the list from north to south, starting with the Palm Beach Rockpool and finishing with the Shelly Beach Ocean Pool in Cronulla.
You can find all these ocean and rock pools on this Google Map.
1. Palm Beach Rockpool
If you’re after one of the most scenic spots for a swim in Sydney, the Palm Beach Rockpool is a must-visit. Nestled at the southern end of the main beach on the eastern side of the Palm Beach peninsula, it offers both beauty and convenience.
This 50-metre-long rock pool features change rooms, showers, and toilets, though the facilities are perhaps a bit cramped.
Set slightly apart from the beach, the pool is easily accessible via a walkway, although the ramp leading into the water is on the steeper side.
2. Mona Vale Rockpool
The picturesque Mona Vale Rockpool is perched on the sandy spit that divides Basin Beach to the north from Mona Vale Beach to the south.
This unique rock pool features two sections: a smaller pool ideal for kids and a larger, 30-metre pool perfect for lap swimming.
At high tide, the pool can almost vanish beneath the ocean waves, creating a fascinating sight. For a more peaceful swim, low tide is the better option!
3. North Narrabeen Rockpool
A little further south, at the northern end of Narrabeen Beach near the entrance to Narrabeen Lagoon, lies the historic North Narrabeen Rockpool.
This expansive pool includes a 50-metre lap swimming area, separated from the rest by a wooden boardwalk, and a kid-friendly section at its northern end.
One of Sydney’s most popular rock pools, it’s a favourite spot for swimming clubs and learn-to-swim programs alike.
4. Dee Why Rockpool
The Dee Why Rockpool, located at the southern end of the popular Dee Why Beach, is a family-friendly spot perfect for a swim.
This rock pool features a 50-metre lap swimming area and a shallow section where toddlers can splash around safely.
Keep in mind, though, that both Dee Why Beach and its rock pool can get quite busy, so arriving early is the best way to beat the crowds.
5. Freshwater Beach Rockpool
Freshwater Rockpool is a 50-metre swimming pool situated on the headland just north of Freshwater Beach.
This no-frills ocean swimming facility features eight lanes for lap swimming, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural scenery.
A convenient car park nearby provides easy access to the pool via a flight of stairs, though it can also be reached directly from the beach.
6. Fairlight Beach Rockpool
The picturesque Fairlight Rockpool forms part of Fairlight Beach, just a short stroll from Manly Cove and the Manly ferry wharf.
Unlike traditional ocean pools, Fairlight Rockpool feels more like an ocean bath. While it may not be large enough for serious lap swimming, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxing dip.
Next to the main pool is a smaller paddling pool, perfect for toddlers and young children to enjoy a splash.
7. Bronte Baths
The popular Bronte Baths are located at the southern end of Bronte Beach and, unlike the nearby Bondi Icebergs, are completely free to access.
Built in the late 1880s, Bronte Baths is one of the oldest ocean pools along the New South Wales coastline, with much of its original design still preserved.
The pool has an unconventional shape, but for those interested in lap swimming, it features clear 30-metre lane markings in the centre.
8. Wylie’s Baths
Situated just south of Coogee Beach, Wylie’s Baths is one of Sydney’s most picturesque ocean pools. Established in 1907 by champion long-distance swimmer Henry Alexander Wylie, it holds a special place in Australia’s swimming history.
Wylie’s Baths was the first mixed-gender bathing pool in the country and also hosted the inaugural Australian Swimming Championships.
Today, it operates as a not-for-profit community pool where, for a small fee, you can enjoy a relaxing swim in breathtaking surroundings.
9. Mahon Pool
Mahon Pool, built in the 1930s, is a naturally formed seaside rock pool located just a few hundred metres north of Maroubra Beach.
Tucked away from the main beach and nestled close to the ocean, Mahon Pool remains a bit of a hidden gem, offering locals a quiet swim with stunning views.
A car park on Marine Parade is conveniently located just a short walk from the pool, with nearby facilities including toilets, showers, and change rooms.
10. Shelly Beach Ocean Pool
Cronulla Beach and the Cronulla Peninsula are home to several tidal rock pools, but the Shelly Beach Ocean Pool might just be the standout.
Much like the nearby Oak Park Rock Pool, Shelly Beach Ocean Pool begins as a small beach and transitions into a swimming pool as you move closer to the ocean.
With Shelly Park and a playground conveniently located just behind the pool, it’s the perfect spot for a fun-filled day out.
