Sydney pools are a summer tradition that offer respite from the city’s scorching temperatures. They are also an ideal place to swim, socialise, and take in the stunning views of the sydney harbour. However, if you want to use your pool well into autumn and winter, it is essential to have it heated. Solar heating is the most popular choice, as Sydney receives plenty of sunshine throughout the year.
Unlike indoor or backyard pools, tidal pools are surrounded by rock, seaweed and a variety of wildlife. They are an iconic feature of Sydney’s rocky shoreline and an essential venue for what Kate Rew, founder of Britain’s Outdoor Swimming Society, calls “wild swimming”, or the practice of swimming in natural environments less subject to control than an indoor pool. Sydney’s rocky beach pools are cherished by swimmers, photographers and artists and play host to recreational and learn-to-swim programs. They are also a vital part of the broader cultural legacy of the city’s coastal environment, as demonstrated by exhibitions of photographs and art that capture their enduring appeal.
The first ocean pools were developed in the late 19th century to protect recreational swimmers from shark attacks. Author Marie-Louise McDermott writes that they became more widely used during the depression era as unemployment relief funds helped councils and community groups build more pools on Sydney’s northern beaches, such as North Narrabeen. The pools were a particularly welcome destination for country kids visiting the Stewart House Preventorium and other social tourism schemes. During this time, the Bondi and Bronte amateur swimming clubs also spearheaded a free state-wide program to teach country children to swim.
Today, the tidal pools still provide an idyllic aquatic experience while providing protection from marine life like bluebottles and dangerous rocks. They are also a wonderful place to exercise, snorkel, sunbake, and interact with Sydney’s flora and fauna. Many of them are still cherished by locals as recreational and social spaces, while others have become cultural assets with heritage listings and conservation management plans.
Despite their popularity, tidal pools are not without hazards, such as slippery cliffs and rockpool urchins. They are also vulnerable to riptide changes and sudden storms. However, if you’re planning to build your own pool, you can minimise these risks by following these tips.
It is also important to choose a trustworthy and professional Sydney pool builder when hiring someone to construct your new pool. You can check a Sydney pool builder’s credentials and reputation by asking for references from previous clients. You can also ask to see their licence, which they must be able to display before starting work. Make sure that the name on their licence matches that on the contract for the construction.
A reputable Sydney pool builder will be prepared to show you their licence and will inspect the site for any underground powerlines or utilities that might impact on your project. They will also be able to give you a warranty for their work.