A pool is a popular addition to many Sydney backyards, offering an ideal way to keep fit, relax with family and friends, and enjoy the famously sunny Sydney climate all year round. However, a swimming pool comes with its own unique requirements and costs that should be considered before making the decision to purchase one. This article will explore some of the most important things to consider when deciding whether to install a pool in your Sydney home.
The city of Sydney is famous for its opera house and bridge, but it also has a lesser-known claim to fame: the fact that it has more ocean pools than any other city in the world. The pools were created in response to Sydney’s wild coastline, which was exposed to the full force of the surf. They are man-made public seawater pools situated on a surf coast, so that the waves wash over them. The idea is to provide a safe place for people to swim, snorkel, sunbake, and learn about the plant and animal life that flourishes on Australia’s rocky shores.
Ocean pools are a great alternative to swimming at the beach, especially for those who are not confident in the water or for families with young children. Many of them offer a range of facilities, such as a snack bar and children’s pool area. In addition, they can be heated in winter and are a popular choice for fitness swimmers and winter swim clubs.
During the 19th century, very few Sydneysiders viewed the coast as a recreational space, and ocean pools were built to cater for this niche market. Often, the pools were gender-segregated in accordance with prevailing British notions of respectability, with men and women bathing at different times (as at Bondi and Bronte) or in separate pools (as at Waverley, Randwick, Kiama and Shellharbour).
Today, Sydney’s beaches are dotted with beautiful parks and playgrounds, as well as a plethora of cafes and restaurants. But the city’s famous ocean pools are still very much in use, with many proving popular swimming spots for locals and visitors alike. With the iconic Coogee and Bronte baths receiving a makeover, ABC News takes a look back at how Sydney’s pool culture came to be.