Sydney pools aren’t simply any ordinary pools – they are an integral part of its identity. From serving as a place for children to meet friends and exercise without leaving their neighbourhood to providing much-needed swimming lessons, Sydney pools have long been part of life in their city and surrounding suburbs. Unfortunately, due to tightening budgets councils have recently reduced opening times and swimming lesson offerings; as a result people seek less safe pools in suburbia with resultant rise in drowning rates throughout NSW.
City of Sydney residents, visitors and swimmers all can take advantage of its six outstanding baths and swimming pools that serve their needs. Each has its own special character whether that’s a rock pool at Bondi or an aquatic oasis hidden amongst forested surrounds in Cremorne Point – each pool serves as a reminder of our city’s long relationship with water; thus making these top outdoor pool lists.
Early 1900s swimming clubs for both men and women formed to provide a safe environment where swimmers could practice laps and strokes away from strong waves and sharks. These pools provided lifesavers for many; only around five percent of Australians could surf well enough to avoid shark attacks at the beach before this happened; until then they’d simply had to take their chances.
Since its construction, much has changed in our city and suburbs; population density has increased and its suburbs expanded further out into the hinterland making it harder for some people to access community pools. Furthermore, national funding constraints mean over 500 community pools require major upgrades in order to keep pace with demand.
Michael Easton doesn’t take council cuts lightly: when he learns of them, his reaction isn’t simply dismissive; rather he expresses serious worry: “I fear this might encourage more people to use rivers or bays for recreation and other illegal activity, creating more dangerous environments.”
Prince Alfred Park Pool provides inner Sydney locals who can’t make it out to the coast with a taste of summer. With its buttercup yellow sun umbrellas that recall Riviera, inviting waters that offer immediate immersion, and being located within an urban park – perfect for picnics post swim! Additionally, you can add exercise into your visit through Sydney’s 360 Membership which grants access to all pools and gym facilities across Sydney for free!
