There’s almost an umbilical link between the people of Double Bay and Murray Rose Pool. It’s the embodiment of an Eastern Suburbs’ lifestyle and don’t the locals just know it. See them swanning around in their scunnos after swimming a lazy few Ks in the 90-metre enclosure formerly known as Redleaf Pool. The pool named in honour of Olympic swimmer Murray Rose is a top spot to tap into what swimming in the harbour sea pools means to Sydneysiders.

You’ll find a regular cast of local characters wriggling into their cossies after their daily jaunt along the Federation Cliff Walk stretching between Watsons Bay and Dover Heights. The tidal harbour pool features two netted swimming areas, floating pontoons, disabled access (including a ramp), open-air showers and public toilets. Enjoy the warm-hearted humour of chatty locals who may well arrange to meet you for brunch and a boogie at the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel.

Ask any Sydneysider and they’ll tell you: it’s somewhat of a spiritual pilgrimage to enjoy a dip at dawn or dusk in a Sydney Harbour sea pool. Whether you’re into doing a few lazy laps or want to gain a different perspective on the sparkling harbour city, this morning ritual is the perfect way to unwind and experience the city’s stunning coast. Greenwich Baths is one of Sydney’s best-kept secrets. This Sydney harbour beauty is only open in the milder months (from September to March) and there’s a cafe onsite.

Good news for swimmers: Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool has reopened in Woolloomooloo Bay after a 16-month renovation. The harbourfront 50m saltwater pool now features 47,000 new tiles, upgraded decking, shade sails, accessible lift, and a greener electric heating system—all with breathtaking views from the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Sydney is one of the best cities on the planet for urban swimming spots. And, when the sun is shining, you’ll find swimmers of all shapes and sizes lazing about on the timber deck that wraps around Maccallum Pool in Cremorne Point. The historic pool was restored in the 1980s and, come springtime, appears like a scene from a Ken Done tea towel. Grab a coffee from the Cremorne Point Coffee Kiosk before tootling back to Circular Quay on the ferry for dinner at Flaminia.

Marrinawi Cove is pinned to the embankment of Sydney Harbour near giant sandstone steps not far from the bling of Barangaroo. It’s a pool that offers a perspective of the audacious harbour skyline while sea birds circle overhead and kayakers paddle past. Linger for a good half hour to soak up the atmosphere before beating a path to Barangaroo. This swimming cove has been carved out with a designated enclosure equipped with safety netting, signage, a railing and showers. It’s one of the best harbour pools to cool off in Sydney. It’s currently closed with the local government enhancing its features, but is expected to reopen in December 2025.

North Sydney Pool, one of Sydney’s most iconic harbour pools, has been closed since 2021, but is set to reopen in November 18, 2025 after a $64 million upgrade. The heritage-listed site will keep its famous art-deco charm while adding modern facilities, including new change rooms, accessible pool access, a waterplay area, spa and sauna, expanded gym, and eco-friendly systems. Expect stunning harbour views, Ripples café, and a first-class swimming experience.