With summer approaching, thoughts are turning to swimming and beachside BBQs. And while it’s tempting to head straight to a chlorinated indoor pool, a trip to one of Sydney’s famous sdy pools is a more authentic Australian experience. These iconic pools are cut into inter-tidal rock platforms and offer spectacular ocean views while providing swimmers with a safe harbourside tidal enclosure. From the historic Balmoral Baths to the secluded Mahon Pool in Maroubra, the city’s ocean pools are as iconic as the city itself.
But sdy pools face a few challenges as the climate shifts. As they’re built on rock platforms, rising sea levels mean the ocean pools will be flushed by swell and will need to be raised in the future. Also, east coast lows have become more frequent and severe, with boulders tumbling from cliffs above the pools.
To help with these challenges, the NSW government has launched a $11 million program to maintain and enhance Sydney’s sdy pools. A new sand base will be laid, and the pools’ edges will be reinforced with rocks and sandbags. There’s also a plan to build protective nets at some of the more popular pools, such as the Dawn Fraser Baths and Nielsen Park in Vaucluse.
But critics say the funding is too late and the money won’t go far enough. Tink points out the $10m grant came at a pre-election moment, muddying what would have been a straightforward project.
The sdy pools are among the most iconic features of Sydney’s waterfront, and they’re also among the most popular attractions for visitors to the city. Almost everyone knows they exist, but few are aware of their origins or how they’re used. The history of these iconic sdy pools is as much a part of Australia’s cultural identity as the bush and the Sydney Opera House.
A visit to a sdy pool is a unique way to spend the day and an essential part of any Sydney sightseeing itinerary. But what exactly are they? Read on to find out more about these incredible outdoor pools.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect finishing touches or the latest high-tech filtration systems, you’ll find it all in our Pool + Spa Interiors chapter. And for tips on how to design your own dream Sydney pool, read our article on the key features to consider when designing your backyard oasis. You can even take your inspiration to the next level by incorporating solar heating, fresh water pool filtration options and a range of other innovative technologies. So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with our experts today! We’re here to help with everything from design to installation. We look forward to hearing from you!