Sydney is a playground for wave chasers and saltwater seekers. From the thunderous breaks of Maroubra to the iconic curl of Bondi, the city’s surf beaches offer adrenaline-pumping action for board riders of every level. But the thrill doesn’t stop at the shoreline. Sydney’s ocean pools are the ultimate place to keep your heart rate up. Whether you're diving into the turquoise calm of Bronte Baths or swimming laps at Andrew Boy Charlton Pool, these spots invite you to move, explore and soak up the coastal energy. 

Sydney’s Best Surf Beaches 

Manly Beach is one of Australia’s most iconic surf spots, famed as the site of the world’s first surfing contest in 1964. This two-kilometre stretch of golden sand, framed by Norfolk pines, draws surfers of all levels. On most days, you’ll see eager learners and senior shredders paddling out, chasing that perfect wave. 

The iconic Bondi Beach delivers waves and high-energy surf culture, making it a bucket-list surf destination for board riders. 

Just around the headland, Bronte Beach shows off with its consistent swells and a laid-back local vibe, making it a favourite for surfers chasing both challenge and charm. 

An official National Surfing reserve, the gorgeous Maroubra Beach is one of Australia’s top surf spots. Framed by rocky headlands, bushland and wide green parks—perfect for post-surfing picnics or coastal walks. A little further south of Bronte, this is a go-to for surfers chasing serious swells. 

Around 45-minutes from the CBD, perched on a peninsula looking over the Royal National Park sits the beaches of Cronulla. Cronulla Beach, North Cronulla Beach and Wanda Beach are famous surf spots where you can learn the thrill of riding a wave onto shore at various local surf schools, such as Cronulla Surfing Academy. 

Up north is home to another iconic surf beach with world-famous North Narrabeen break. North Narrabeen break, the breeding ground of some of the world's best surfers, including world champions. It is also the site of numerous local, national and international events.  

Head to the northern end of Palm Beach for some serious waves and Dee Why Point for a right-hand point break. 

Sydney’s Best Ocean Pools 

From cliffside laps to tidal plunges, Sydney’s ocean and rock pools offer a refreshing way to stay active while soaking up the city’s salty edge. 

Cronulla is home to some of Sydney’s most beautiful rock pools. Located on a rocky platform between Cronulla Beach and North Cronulla Beach, North Cronulla Rock Pool is the northernmost and smaller of two ocean baths in Cronulla. Next to it, Cronulla Beach rock pool is a full-sized, eight-lane pool that is perfect for swimming laps right next to the ocean. Farther around the point is Oak Park Rock Pool. 

Mahon Pool is a peaceful rock pool located just north of Maroubra Beach, at the base of Jack Vanny Reserve. Surrounded by natural rock formations and coastal cliffs, it offers a scenic spot for a swim. Access is via a set of steps leading down from Marine Parade, with parking available nearby.

Further north in Bronte is an ocean-fed lap pool to experience top saltwater swimming. While around the corner Coogee offers Giles Baths at the northern headland and on the southern headland you can take in 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean at Wylies Baths. Henry Alexander Wylie, a champion long distance and underwater swimmer, established Wylie's Baths in 1907. The construction of the Baths coincided with an emerging interest in seaside baths in Sydney at the turn of the century. 

Forget indoor chlorine pools, take your laps harbourside in one of the beautiful saltwater outdoor pools. Set on the shores of Woolloomooloo Bay near the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Andrew Boy Charlton (ABC) Pool offers breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour and provides a tranquil environment for swimming, relaxation and socialising. The outdoor salt-water pool is heated and has eight lanes.  

Maccallum Pool, tucked into the western edge of Cremorne Point, blends heritage charm with unbeatable harbour views. Originally a rock pool carved out by locals, it was transformed in the 1920s into a timber-decked saltwater haven. Restored in the mid-80s to honour its original style, it remains one of Sydney’s most scenic and character-rich swim spots. 

Not forgetting the iconic Bondi Icebergs Pool which sits on the southern end of Bondi Beach and is open to the public for a low fee of $10. Currently closed for redevelopment, North Sydney Olympic Pool is set to reopen in 2026 boasting a 50-metre heated outdoor pool, gymnasium, sauna and spa.