Whether they’re rugged ocean pools populated by serious lap swimmers or serene harbour-front baths filled with lazy sunbathers, Sydney is speckled with great spots for a splash around.
Getting a swimming pool built is one of the best things you can do for your home, so it’s worth doing a bit of research before deciding where to start. The first thing you should do is get at least three to four quotes from pool builders who share your style and who have experience building pools in New South Wales. Then, meet with the designers and builders in person to see if they fit your needs and have the qualifications and skills needed for the job.
There are many ways to do this, but the most important thing is to make sure that the Sydney swimming pool contractor you choose has a history of delivering high-quality work and building beautiful pools. Ask them to give you at least a few references from clients who have used their services in the past, so you can see how they conduct business.
You can also do a search for local swimming pool contractors on the Better Business Bureau website and check their online reviews to see what other people have to say about them. It’s a good idea to check that they’re certified in pool construction, are registered with the registrar of swimming pools, and have a history of completing jobs on time.
For a less expensive option, there are plenty of free pools in the city. The most famous is Bondi Icebergs, but other favourites include Bronte Beach and Coogee.
These pools are carved out of the rock, with ocean water spilling over the sides like a giant bowling alley. They’re a great place to dip your toes and are a popular spot for families on vacation.
This one at the end of Balmain’s sandstone cliffs is particularly pretty, with a curved decking and a small beach to relax on. There’s also a picnic area and changing facilities, and it’s just a short walk from the city centre.
It’s a popular spot for a quick swim after work or on a chilly night, but the only problem is that it’s usually packed with tourists looking to snap some Instagram-worthy shots. The best time to go is early in the morning when the crowds are smaller, and if you’re not confident swimming out into the surf you can hire a towel from the nearby cafe for $5.
They’re also a popular place to watch surfers, who often take the plunge on the sand below the cliffs. But it’s not all frolics and fun at these beaches: there are sometimes shark attacks, and some landowners don’t like swimmers on their properties.
Thankfully, most of these pools are well-maintained and open to the public for free. Some are owned and run by private clubs, others are public.
Another popular attraction is the Figure Eight Pools, which are a series of natural formations that have been shaped by waves in the Royal National Park near Burning Palms Beach about an hour’s drive from the city. They’ve been dubbed “Instagram-famous”, but the reality is that they’re not all it’s cracked up to be.