While the opera house, bridge and harbour are well known to tourists, many people are unaware that Sydney also has one of the largest collections of ocean pools in the world. The city’s sandstone heritage and the fact that its coastal and beach areas are largely sandy have helped it to develop a pool culture, with the pools providing safe places for people to swim and bathe in the surf. This is especially true in the southern two-thirds of the city’s coastline, which has rocky headlands that offer ideal conditions for ocean pools.

These sites provide a safe harbour swimming area and the sand below the high water mark provides good bathing depth. Most ocean pools are constructed above the highest water level to avoid overflow and ensure the water is clean, which helps protect marine life from pollution. They are surrounded by decks, pathways and lawns for easy access, as well as shaded areas to relax before or after swimming. Whether you are into swimming, fitness or just want to hang out with friends, there is a pool in Sydney to suit you.

There are also 6 excellent aquatic centres located throughout the City that provide a great opportunity for locals to get active in a range of different ways. These centres are home to swimming pools, fitness facilities and indoor and outdoor relaxation spaces. The Cook + Phillip Park Aquatic Centre features 3 pools and is partially underground, Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre has a unique wavelike design with something for everyone and Gunyama Park Aquatic Centre offers 4 pools plus plenty of indoor and outdoor space to relax.

These centres offer a variety of programs to get Sydneysiders moving, from aquatics including learn to swim and water safety to health and wellbeing programs such as group fitness and personal training. They are a great way for people of all ages to stay active and enjoy the benefits of being outdoors, swimming in the sea and being part of a community that cares about their wellbeing.

If you’re thinking about getting a pool in Sydney, it’s important to know that there are certain laws that all pool builders must adhere to. This is to ensure that the work they do is of a high standard and that you’re not being overcharged. When choosing a pool builder, make sure they have a license and are prepared to show you it.

Inground Pools

There are three types of inground pools: fiberglass, vinyl and concrete. The least expensive is vinyl, but they can crack and fade over time, so you’ll probably end up paying more in repairs. Fiberglass and concrete pools are more durable and are better suited to the climate, but they are much more costly than vinyl.

The key to designing a successful outdoor pool is to listen to the community’s needs and wants. WTI worked closely with the City of Sydney and its Mayor’s Swimming Pool Committee to complete a feasibility study, site evaluation and selection, preliminary design and cost estimates. This enabled the design team to understand the city’s expectations, and it also meant that the final pool could be delivered on budget and on schedule.