Top 10 Rock Pools to Visit in Sydney and Surrounds


Whether you're looking for a quick dip or a fun day of swimming and exploring, We've rounded up the 10 best cool, clean water spots around Sydney for rock pool lovers. From the famous Bronte Baths to little known gems off the beaten track, come explore our top picks of rock pools in and around Sydney! 


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North Narrabeen Rockpool, Narrabeen

North Narrabeen Rockpool is the perfect spot in Sydney to cool off on hot summer days. Nestled away in the Northern Beaches of Sydney, this rock pool is worth the short drive from the city. With crystal blue water, the subtropical vibe of the pool is the perfect place to unwind from the everyday hustle of city life. Throw on your Ravelle sustainable swimwear and take a dip! The serene location of North Narrabeen Rockpool provides a stress-free atmosphere while boasting an Instagram-worthy aesthetic. Visit this tranquil and divine rock pool in Sydney and have the time of your life!

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McIver's Ladies Baths, Coogee

Have you heard of McIver's Ladies Baths? It's the oldest surviving ocean pool in Sydney and is still going strong since its inception in 1886. It's open all year round and you can take a dip during sunrise or sunset. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful swim in the iconic Coogee Bay. It has stunning views of the ocean, so you can take some nice pics and post 'em up. Go check it out soon!

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Austinmer Ocean Pools, Austinmer


Austinmer Ocean Pools in Austinmer near Sydney, Australia is literally a dream come true. It's a perfect spot for anyone who loves the outdoors and swimming in nature. This amazing ocean rockpool is a great spot to hang out and enjoy the summer sun. The pool is salt-water, fully shaded and surrounded by stunning sandstone rocks. It's deep enough to do a couple of laps or float around enjoying the water and stunning surrounding scenery. We highly recommend it if you're looking for the perfect spot for a Sydney getaway. Plus, it's free and open every day of the week all year round!

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Bronte Baths, Bronte


If you're keen to get your summer swim on, you'll love Bronte Baths - one of Sydney's best kept secrets! This iconic rock pool just offers such a great atmosphere to jump in. The huge pool is perfect for some quick laps, and for those who prefer the shallows, there's an awesome kids area. Not to mention the amazing views of the coast. You can even order an ice cream from the kiosk and relax with a beach BBQ afterwards. And for the beach goers, there is a lovely beach right next door. If you're looking for the perfect day out in Sydney, Bronte Beach and Bronte Baths will definitely do the trick!

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Coalcliff Rockpool, Coalcliff

Coalcliff Rockpool near Sydney is an amazing place to add to your outdoor swimming bucket list! It's heavily protected by a wide ledge of rocks making it very safe for swimmers of all levels. The crisp, crystal-clear waters are enough to make you throw away your indoor pool membership. Plus, you get the feeling of swimming in the wild, so close to nature. Just be sure to arrive early before the crowds come; Coalcliff Rock Pool in Sydney is one of the most popular natural swimming spots in New South Wales. So, rock up and make a splash just like a seasoned Sydney-sider!

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Mahon Pool, Maroubra

If you're a nature-lover in Sydney looking to take a dip, you gotta check out Mahon Pool in Maroubra! This stunning rock pool is the perfect way to get away from city life and enjoy some well-deserved vitamin sea. Located between Maroubra headland and the beach, it's a great spot where the ocean water meets the rock pool creating a beautiful clear cove. It's crystal clear water is perfect for a morning or afternoon swim and the views are absolutely spectacular. For the safest experience, make sure you go outside of the peak times, which can be crowded with other swimmers. Don't forget to check out the original rock ladder and archway too! Mahon Pool in Maroubra is an Australian oasis that's a must-visit if you're a fan of rock pools and swimming in Sydney.

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Mona Vale Rockpool, Mona Vale

Mona Vale Rockpool near Sydney is an amazing spot for nature swims and outdoor adventures. It's perfect for all ages and level of swimming ability as it's sheltered from the waves and the crystal clear water is like an oasis on a summer day. Plus the bonus of fantastic views across the beach and sand! Even better, it's only a 15min drive away from Sydney city. A must-add to your bucket list of rock pool swims in Sydney!

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South Curl Curl Rockpool, Curl Curl

South Curl Curl Rockpool near Sydney is definitely one of our favourite spots to take a dip in nature! We love the perfect mix of solitude and the companionship of a few swimming buddies. It's a gem near Sydney and great for a sunrise or sunset swim. You can get to the pool by walking down the coastline from North Curl Curl and then turn left - it's worth the walk! Once you get there, it's a great rock pool with a unique and peaceful vibe. Perfect for cooling off after a beach walk from Manly to Dee Why!

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Fairy Bower Sea Pool, Manly

Fairy Bower Sea Pool in Manly, Sydney, is an incredible rock pool nestled in one of the world's most beautiful beaches. We love swimming in this rock pool - it's like being in a completely different world! On sunny days, you can even have a picnic by the pool after you've gone for a swim. If you're in Sydney, we definitely recommend a visit to Fairy Bower Sea Pool. It's the perfect spot to escape the city and get closer to nature. Trust us, the experience will leave you refreshed and feeling like a mermaid!

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North Cronulla Rockpool, Cronulla

North Cronulla Rockpool in Sydney is the ultimate spot for those of us who love swimming in nature and the great outdoors. The rock pool is situated at the most Northern point of Cronulla Beach and it's perfect for a mid-morning dip or a moonlight dip in the crystal clear waters. It's a great place to chill and escape the frenetic energy of Sydney sometimes, and take a break from everyday life. Even if you're a beginner, the gentle waves and rock formations make it suitable for swimming. Our trips to North Cronulla Rockpool in Sydney have left us feeling refreshed and energised - it's truly a magical place!

No matter where you choose to explore, rockpool dipping is a fun, cheap and unique way to enjoy the summer heat. So grab your pals and get moving, there are sooo many awesome rockpool spots to discover!