Embraced by cliffs and craggy headlands, tucked away in coves and between swells, ocean pools are an enticing alternative to the cold-water, surf-dominated beach. A peculiarly NSW treasure, they are tidal pools carved out of the rocks by the pounding surf. A little bit like a natural spa, they offer swimmers a chance to splash about and be safe from the dangerous waves that buffet the coastline. They shelter the shy, the cautious and those who are unable to swim well. From the tiny Fairy Bower in Manly to historic Wylie’s Baths in Coogee and Olympic-sized South Cronulla, Australia has more ocean pools than any other country – but none more spectacular than Sydney’s.

Dotted along the city’s shoreline and harbour’s edge, these pools were designed in response to a wild coastline that was exposed to the full force of the surf. In the 19th century, clubs formed to provide recreational and competitive swimming options. They created pools where swimmers could safely tame the sea and enjoy a dip surrounded by rock platforms, sand and azure blue water. They were a place to exercise, socialise and meet like-minded people and, more importantly, stay safe from shark attacks and the choppy surf.

Some pools were carved from the sand, others were built in and around rocky outcrops and some were dredged from the sandbanks. Often, a tidal pool would be fenced off by a rock wall to protect swimmers from strong currents and the potential of shark attacks. A number of these ocean pools, including Bondi Icebergs Pool, are more than 100 years old and are a must-see for visitors to Sydney.

Each day, before the surfers and soft sand runners hit the beaches, swimmers clutching towels and goggles make their way to ocean pools tucked into the cliffs and beachfront. They swim, float and soak up the beauty that’s drawn photographers for generations. They also share in a love affair that began almost 200 years ago.

It’s a love that’s currently under threat. The cost of using council pools has soared in recent years as the industry has been forced to make major upgrades to safety equipment, resurfacing and fencing. With entry to the iconic Bondi Icebergs pool now more than $10 for a single swim, that’s not an enticing proposition. In an effort to keep the pools open, locals have turned to fashion shows, production companies and private parties as a means to offset rising costs. But, Tink argues, that approach can only go so far before the community loses out. She wants the pool to remain accessible for all, so that everyone can continue to benefit from this remarkable public asset.