The release of Destination NSW’s Top Ten Swimming Spots has us begging for clear weather. Sabrina Muysken reports.
The results are in, and Destination NSW has awarded their 2015 Top Ten Swimming Spots for NSW.
Surrounded by stunning coastlines and blessed with (mostly) hot summer days, it’s no wonder NSW is spoilt for choice with some of the most picturesque watering holes the country has to offer.
Since showcasing the best of NSW throughout January, Deputy Premier Troy Grant’s eagerly anticipated reveal of Destinations NSW’s finest swimming spots is finally here.
Whether it’s a secluded creek or an ocean rock pool, why not dive into some of the best swimming spots in NSW?
1. Bondi Baths, Bondi Beach
Ok, so the Bondi Baths might not be the most surprising reveal. The famous swimming spot has been a landmark of Bondi Beach for over 100 years, but with good reason. Boasting a 50-metre salt-water lap pool, smaller children’s pool and lifeguard supervision, this is the perfect place for the entire family to cool off this summer. After your stylish dip you could even have a cheeky snack at the trendy Bondi Icebergs café.
2. White’s Beach, Byron Bay
Introducing one of the country’s best-kept secrets, Byron Bay’s White’s Beach. If it’s your own piece of secluded paradise you’re after, then look no further. Surrounded by rocky cliffs, palm trees for days and pristine waters, White’s beach is the ideal escape from the city hustle. With the uber-hip Byron Bay town centre nearby, why not jet off for a refreshing weekend getaway?
3. MacCallum Pool, Cremorne Point
If you enjoy breathtaking views of Sydney’s Harbour in all her summer glory, then MacCallum Pool is your stop. Built in the 1920s, MacCallum Pool is surprisingly one of Sydney’s most tranquil hidden gems. Next time you’re in need of a moment of peace and quiet, head over to this heavenly spot and take in the awe-inspiring scenery.
4. Blue Pool, Bermagui
Bermagui’s famous Blue Pool deserves a place on your “Must See” list for 2015. After taking a dip in the natural rock pool, floating in crystal clear ocean water and maybe even a spot of snorkeling, you won’t be disappointed. The crown jewel of the stunning Sapphire Coast, it is located off Scenic Drive at the base of a dramatic rocky cliff face. With a children’s wading pool at the southern end and an incredible coastal viewing platform for whale watching, this outing is not to be missed.
5. Wylie’s Baths, Coogee Beach
After a social cool down amid the Sydney scene? Wylie’s Baths is a favourite among visitors and locals alike. Set on the edge of Coogee’s trendy beach, Wylie’s Baths is often labeled as one of Sydney’s most beautiful ocean tidal pools. An idyllic place to relax with friends, you can even enjoy a soothing hands of a qualified masseuse post-swim.
6. The Bogey Hole, Newcastle
If you’re after a quick cool down that won’t leave you with sandy feet, The Bogey Hole is for you. Located at Shortland Esplanade in Newcastle, Australia’s eldest ocean bath is a popular swimming spot for all ages. Rich in history since being cut into the ocean rocks by convict labour in 1819, the ocean waves crashing into the pool is a fascinating sight alone. Appropriately named “Bogey Hole”, deriving from the indigenous word meaning “to bathe”, it’s the perfect spot for the inner city dweller on a hot summers day.
7. Fairy Bower Pool, Manly
Fairy Bower ticks all the boxes. Guarded by Helen Leete’s iconic ‘The Sea Nymphs’ and ‘The Oceanides’ sculptures, Fairy Bower Pool combines scenic coastline, revitalising swims and creative flair, all in the relaxed location of Manly. The triangular shaped rockpool has been a crowd favourite since it’s construction in 1929 by Manly locals.
8. Wombeyan Gorge, Wombeyan Caves
Exciting outdoor adventure away from the big smoke, say no more. Just a light 30-minutre stroll from Wombeyan Karst Conservation Reserve’s visitor centre to Mares Forest Creek, is the spectacular Wombeyan Gorge natural swimming pool. This summer time hot-spot features marbles walls and exciting canyoning adventures for the active.
9. Greenwich Baths, Greenwich Point
Beautifully located on a Harbour-front beach at the tip of Greenwich Point, Greenwich Baths is the perfect watering hole for family fun. Shark-netted and fully enclosed kids can play with provided beach toys while parents relax on sun lounges, coffee in hand. A kiosk nearby serving all the classics, including fish and chips and ice creams, means you can turn this outing into an all day family event.
10. Angourie Blue Pool, Angourie
Those keen for a day-trip head North via Yamba and take a dip in the very popular swimming hole, Angourie Blue Pool. With family picnic spots located around picturesque freshwater pools, and walking tracks to guide your exploration of the rock shelf, the Blue Pool is well worth a visit.
