Dive Into The Best Ocean Pools Of NSW

Swimming in one of New South Whales’ iconic ocean pools is at the top of the list for most backpackers. The idea of the waves hitting the poolside while you sit comfortably in your ocean pool is anyone’s ideal day out. There are over 100 ocean pools scattered along NSW’s rocky coastline that give relief from the heat of an Aussie summer. Some of these pools have been around for almost 200 years and receive just as many visitors as the local swimming pools. One of the best things about these ocean pools is that most of them are free! There are a few different types of ocean pools. Some have naturally formed, like rock pools, and then been fenced off, while others have been built into the rock. Some were actually Indigenous swimming spots also knows as ‘bogey holes’, which were later transformed into larger ocean pools. Each pool has it’s own history, characteristics and of course beautiful setting. So let’s dive into the top 5 ocean pools in NSW: 5. Fairy Bower Rock Pool, Manly – Along the boardwalk between Manly Beach and Shelly Beach, NSW. 
This rock pool is smaller than most but set in one of the most picturesque beaches in NSW; Manly Beach. The pool is situated along the Manly boardwalk and is easily identified by two sculptures known as the Oceanids. The water is calmer here, so there won’t be many crashing waves. This ocean pool is free. 4. Pearl Beach Rock Pool - Green Point Rd, Pearl Beach NSW One of my personal favourites is Pearl Beach Rock Pool because of its quiet location and amazing rock formations. This pool was privately built by an estate developer in the 1920s to help sell land in the area. Later it passed into the council’s control. This pool is perfect for lap swimming and has no entry fee. 3. The Bogey Hole, Newcastle Beach - Shortland Esplanade, NSW Newcastle Beach is just over two hours away from the Sydney but it's a beautiful area for a day out. The Bogey Hole ocean pool is the state’s oldest pool, which was actually built by convicts in the 1820s. The pool was carved out of a cliff and sits on the edge, where the ocean meets the rock. On a rough ocean day it’s a fun place to be when the waves are hitting the pool. 2. Wylies Baths - Neptune Street, Coogee NSW There are actually four amazing ocean pools to visit in the Coogee area but the most famous is the heritage listed Wylies Baths. This is one of the largest rock pools in NSW and is situated on an inter tidal rock shelf. Behind the pool is a huge timber deck, which has a great 180 degree view of the surrounds and Wedding Cake Island. The entry fee to this pool is $3 and on site are changing facilities, a café, swim store, yoga classes and massage parlour. In the same day you can also visit three other ocean pools which are within walking distance, Ross Jones Memorial Pool, McIvers Baths (women only) and Mahon Pool. 1. Bondi Icebergs - 1 Notts Ave, Bondi Beach NSW Coming in at number 1 is the most iconic ocean pool of all time, set in Australia’s most famous beach - Bondi Icebergs. This pool is over 100 years old; it’s origin dates back to 1929 when a group of dedicated Bondi lifesavers decided to build a pool to maintain their fitness in the winter months. The main pool is 50m long and there is also a smaller pool for children. The grounds comprise of changing facilities, a bistro, a bar, a gym and massage parlour. To visit these pools there is a small fee of $6 for adults and $4 for concession.