Sydney is famed for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community and welcoming vibe, making it a top destination for gay travellers seeking both fun and relaxation. Beyond the lively nightlife and iconic beaches, Sydney’s open-air swimming pools offer a unique way to experience the city’s stunning coastal beauty while enjoying a friendly, inclusive atmosphere.
Whether it’s the legendary Icebergs Pool overlooking Bondi Beach, where you can swim laps while watching the waves crash just meters away, or the tranquil charm of historic Wylie’s Baths, these pools are perfect spots to connect with locals and fellow travellers alike. Many of these pools have a relaxed, social environment where diversity is celebrated which is ideal for meeting new friends or simply soaking up the sunshine in a safe and welcoming space.
Plus, these pools often host events, swim classes, and casual hangouts that attract a broad, inclusive crowd, making them not just swimming spots but vibrant community hubs. For gay travellers who want a refreshing break from city sightseeing or nightlife, Sydney’s open-air pools provide the perfect blend of health, beauty, and connection — all with that special local flair.
So if the legendary Sydney beach life is not for you why not check out some of the pools which give the views without the sand.
🏊♂️ Sydney Open-Air Swimming Pools
1. Bondi Icebergs Pool
- Location: 1 Notts Ave, Bondi Beach
- Vibe: Iconic ocean pool with panoramic views of Bondi Beach and the Pacific Ocean. Famous for its chilled water and the club’s restaurant/bar.
- Facilities: Change rooms, showers, café, gym (for members).
- Access: Public entry fee applies; casual swim or lap swim.
- How to get there: Bus 333 or 380 from the city or Bondi Junction; walk from Bondi Beach.
2. Wylie’s Baths
- Location: 4B Cliff St, Coogee
- Vibe: Historic ocean pool built in 1907 with a natural rock pool feel and sheltered from big waves. Very scenic and quieter than Bondi.
- Facilities: Change rooms, showers, café.
- Access: Small entry fee.
- How to get there: Bus 373 or 374 from Bondi Junction to Coogee; walk down to the baths.
3. Andrew “Boy” Charlton Pool
- Location: Mrs Macquarie’s Rd, The Domain (CBD)
- Vibe: Heated 50m saltwater pool with a view of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House. Popular with lap swimmers and families.
- Facilities: Change rooms, café, sun decks.
- Access: Entry fee applies.
- How to get there: Walk from the CBD or take buses to Mrs Macquarie’s Rd.
4. Gordon Pool
- Location: Beach Rd, Rose Bay
- Vibe: Smaller ocean pool with stunning views over Rose Bay and the harbour, great for quiet laps and casual swim.
- Facilities: Change rooms, showers.
- Access: Entry fee applies.
- How to get there: Bus 323 or 324 from Bondi Junction; walk from Rose Bay ferry wharf.
5. Mackenzie Pool
- Location: New Beach Rd, Kogarah
- Vibe: Large outdoor pool in southern Sydney, less touristy, great for families and swim training.
- Facilities: Change rooms, kiosk.
- Access: Entry fee applies.
- How to get there: Train to Kogarah station, then a short bus or taxi ride.
6. Cook and Phillip Park Pool
- Location: 6 Eddy Ave, Sydney CBD
- Vibe: Outdoor heated pool in the city center with spectacular cityscape views.
- Facilities: Change rooms, sauna, gym.
- Access: Entry fee applies, swim lanes and casual swim times available.
- How to get there: Walkable from Town Hall or Wynyard stations.
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🏳️🌈 About Cramberts
From our home base in Amsterdam, we frequently explore some of Europe’s most vibrant cities, and we’ve compiled detailed guides to share our insider knowledge. Whether you’re seeking the canals and culture of Amsterdam itself, the sunny beaches of Gran Canaria, the historic charm of Lisbon and Porto, the bustling energy of Barcelona and Madrid, the refined elegance of Paris and Munich, the unique character of Sitges, or the diverse landscapes of the Randstad region, you’ll find comprehensive information and recommendations in the links below.
🔗 See Also
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