If you live in Sydney you know there’s no shortage of stunning natural pools to swim in come summer. But if you live in Sydney you also know most of these incredible swim spots are often found along the eastern coastline. If you live in the city or in suburbs surrounding the city there aren’t many natural swim spots close by. 

Cue: Callan Park Tidal Baths.  

Following in the footsteps of the successful opening of Miranawi Cove in Barangaroo in 2023, this week, the Inner West Council announced the designs for the Callan Park Tidal Baths is locked in and forging ahead thanks to a $3.8 million investment.

The new site will introduce a swimming area protected by a shark net, an accessible pathway, moored pontoons and a jetty for people to sunbathe on at Callan Park in Lilyfield. 

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If you’re unfamiliar with the exact location, it will help to know that this new swimming spot is tucked away along the popular Bay Run. The Bay Run is a haven for those who like long waterside strolls, runs or bike rides. It sits within a 61-hectare park next to Parramatta River. It’s on this waterfront the new swim spot can be found. 

Now, germaphobes can rest assured knowing that the water quality has undergone rigorous testing to ensure the quality is good enough for people to swim in. It wasn;t given the green light until years of water quality testing, environmental impact research, floor quality testing and more was completed. 

The tidal bath is expected to open in January 2027, but in the meantime you can cool off at some of Sydney’s best rock pools, get your heart rate up at these outdoor lap pools or let the kids splash around at these family-friendly swim spots.

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