The Sydney harbour bridge and opera house may be the city’s most famous attractions, but its sidney pools are a lesser-known gem. These man-made public seawater pools situated on a surf coast so waves can wash over them are a key part of Sydney’s swim culture and a popular destination for swimmers, not only during the summer but also throughout the year.

They are also a great swimming spot for people who don’t feel comfortable or safe at a beach. They are a favourite for people who want to do laps, and some have changing rooms, showers, and snack bars. Others are used by fitness swimmers and winter swim clubs.

There are more than 100 ocean pools in New South Wales and around the world, but the biggest collection can be found at Bondi Icebergs pool, at the southern end of Bondi Beach. It is operated by the Bondi Icebergs Club and costs an admission fee, but is open to the general public. Other famous ocean pools include Bronte Baths, Clovelly Pool and the Ross Jones Memorial Pool. Many of these are heritage-listed. Others are free to use, including Mahon Pool at Maroubra and Malabar Ocean Pool, which is also a rockpool.

Many of these are a little run-down now but they were once at the heart of Sydney’s coastal culture. They were built at a time when few Sydneysiders had any surfing skills and people wanted to enjoy the water in safety. They were a refuge from the strong surf and the risk of shark attacks. Unlike beaches, which were generally not suitable for swimming, the pools had calmer waters and were safe to enter from lifeguard-protected bathing areas.

Marie-Louise McDermott, an expert who has written about ocean pools, says that most were gender-segregated. In keeping with prevailing British notions of respectability, men and women bathed at different times (as at Bondi and Bronte) or in separate pools (as at Waverley and Randwick).

In the 1930s the Depression era saw councils using unemployment relief funds to create more ocean pools, such as Mahon Pool at Maroubra and the north Sydney beaches at Curl Curl and Queenscliff. Some were even constructed by the unemployed, who used the work as a way to earn a living.

Today, swimming pools are essential for anyone who wants to stay fit and healthy. They are also a great source of relaxation and a fun place to hang out with family members. But, if you are planning to invest in a swimming pool for your home, be sure to hire an experienced and reliable Sydney pool builder. A good builder will ensure that you get the best quality and value for your money. In addition, they will help you choose a pool design that suits your needs and style. They will also provide maintenance services and offer warranties for their work. In addition, they will be able to answer all of your questions. This is why it’s important to research your options carefully before making a decision.