Our Harbour is a wonderland of ecosystems, with over 3,000 marine species thriving in our waters, including more than 600 types of fish. It’s important to find a safe spot to swim. These are the best (and safest) swimming spots in Sydney Harbour.
A swim in the glittering waters of Sydney Harbour may be appealing, but in the past year, the Marine Rescue NSW team dealt with over 670 people who found themselves in trouble around Port Jackson (which includes the harbour). Boaters, kayakers and paddle boarders are constantly getting swept off their vessels or slipping into the water.
It’s mainly dangerous because Sydney Harbour is a transit zone for everything from small ferries to colossal container ships, commercial boats, tugboats, and cruise ships. If water traffic doesn’t stop you, the water quality might.
The City of Sydney admits pollution is the number one issue that’s stopping the harbour from becoming the swim-friendly destination many locals dream of, even netted swimming areas are sometimes off-limits after a storm. Legally, Sydney Cove, which sits between the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, and Farm Cove are off-limits for swimmers. If you’re caught in the water, you could be slapped with a fine of up to $1,100. A hefty price for a pretty gross swim.
Swimmers are advised to use their own judgement before entering the harbour. If the water appears discoloured, has an unusual smell, contains visible rubbish, or if there’s been recent heavy rain, it’s best to avoid swimming for at least three days following rainfall.
Where can you swim in Sydney Harbour?
The good news is that there are a few spots where swimming is allowed and actually encouraged.
1. Marrinawi Cove
First up, Marrinawi Cove at Barangaroo, which opened a couple of years ago, is the only netted swimming area in the actual harbour. It’s the one place where you can cool off without worrying about being run over by a ferry. The designated swimming area was created to safely revive harbour swimming in the city.
Located on the northern end of Barangaroo Reserve, the spot is just a seven-minute walk from the new Barangaroo Metro Station and a 16-minute walk from Wynyard Station. Ideal for corporate workers in the city looking to cool off during summer, there are toilets and a nearby shower available at the Sewerage Pump House, conveniently located near the Towns Place entrance. Dogs are also allowed to swim here; however, they must be on a leash while walking in the area.
Where: Barangaroo Point Reserve, Barangaroo NSW 2000.
When: Open 24 hours.
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2. Camp Cove
If you’re after something a little more low-key, Camp Cove offers calm waters, plenty of space for the kids, and grassy areas perfect for chilling with a book. Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel is just around the corner, making it easy to transition from a day in the sun to a night of cocktails. There’s also Camp Cove Kiosk, a beloved beachy café known for its fresh, seasonal meals that are perfect for both takeaway or a relaxed dine-in experience. From Thursday to Sunday, they also serve sunset dinners from 5pm, making it the ideal spot to unwind by the water.
There’s accessible parking at the nearby Cliff Street car park (Managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service). Visitors from the city can catch the 324 bus and then walk 10 minutes to the spot. You can also get the F9 ferry to Watsons Bay wharf, where it’s a short walk to the beach.
Where: 23B Victoria Street, Watsons Bay, 2030.
When: 6am-6pm.
3. Little Manly Beach
If you’re looking for a proper beach experience, Little Manly Beach is a solid choice. With its calm waters and prime views of Mosman and the eastern suburbs, it’s the perfect spot for families and solo swimmers alike. The beach has toilets and a changing area with showers, and there’s also Ripples, a chic, beachside spot that acts as both a kiosk and a dine-in restaurant.
Little Manly is just a 10-minute stroll from Manly Wharf, making it an easy spot to head to if you’re coming from the city. Just hop on a ferry from Circular Quay and head straight to the beach. Be sure to stick around for sunset, it’s worth it. Dogs are not permitted on the beach.
Where: 42-44 Stuart Street, Manly, NSW 2095.
When: Open 24 hours, year-round. Ripples is open every day for takeaway but has specific dine-in hours.
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4. Maccallum Pool
Maccallum Pool is a hidden gem tucked away on the western side of Cremorne Point, offering one of Sydney’s most scenic swimming spots. The pool’s wooden boardwalk and vintage charm make it feel like a step back in time, but with uninterrupted views of the city and the harbour’s finest yachts. The unique 33-metre seawater pool is rich in heritage charm, initially built as a rock pool in the 1920s before being restored into the picturesque swimming spot that it is today.
As the pool is filled with water directly from the harbour, it needs to be cleaned regularly. You can stay updated with the pool’s closing times (for cleaning) here. Our advice? If the sun is shining, make sure you get there early—it’s small, and it fills up quickly on hot days.
The pool is accessible by car via Milson Road, or you can alight at the Cremorne Point wharf and walk along Cremorne Reserve to get there. Simply catch the F6 ferry from Circular Quay.
Where: Milson Rd, Cremorne Point NSW 2090.
When: Open 24 hours.
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5. Murray Rose Pool
Tucked away in Double Bay, Murray Rose Pool is popular with all age groups, especially on warm summer weekends when the crowds roll in to soak up the sun. Visitors will bask on the wooden jetty that wraps around the swimming area, which is also fun to jump off. There’s a café perched on the hill that sells all kinds of dishes and refreshments, with a seating area shaded from the sun, though many opt to sit on the grass and sip on an iced coffee.
Visitors can catch the 324 or 325 bus from the city to reach the spot, or it’s a 24-minute walk from Edgecliff Station. The council car park above the area is limited to 30 minutes on weekdays but has no restrictions on weekends.
Where: 536 New South Head Road, Double Bay NSW 2028.
When: Open 24 hours.
6. Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool
With the Royal Botanic Gardens just next door, this remains one of Sydney’s most picturesque and popular swimming spots. There are eight lanes available for serious lap swimmers, and a smaller pool that’s perfect for kids and beginners. It’s recently reopened following a 16-month refurbishment, so the grandstand, decking and pool itself are all in top condition in time for summer.
Where: 1c Mrs Macquaries Rd, NSW 2000.
When: Daily 6am–8pm, public holidays 7am–7pm.
7. Nielsen Park (Shark Beach)
Nielsen Park is another great option. Known for its heritage status and beautiful views across the harbour, it’s a local favourite for picnics and swimming in Shark Beach. The swimming area has a shark net and was recently renovated, with a brand new promenade, grassy spots to sit on and a fancy restaurant/ kiosk. With spacious changing rooms and plenty of public toilets, the park is well-equipped for a full day of relaxing, exploring or soaking up the sun.
Located in the affluent neighbourhood of Vaucluse, visitors can get the 325 bus from the city and then walk 14 minutes down to the beach. There’s parking around the area and a car park at nearby Greycliffe Avenue. Dogs are not allowed on Nielsen Park and Shark Beach.
Where: 6 Steele Point Rd, Vaucluse NSW 2030.
When: 7am-7pm.
8. Greenwich Baths
Greenwich Baths is a small and relaxed spot, often populated by families and the occasional lap swimmer. The baths have a shark-proof net and are enclosed with child-proof gating for parents’ peace of mind. Located on Sydney’s North Shore, the Baths offer incredible harbour views, beach lounges, recently renovated changing rooms and a kiosk serving snacks and drinks.
There’s an entry fee of $4.70 for adults and $3.60 for concession, children and students. Children under 3 are free of charge, and if customers wish to have food or a coffee at the café tables but not access the beach, there is no charge.
To get to the Baths from the city, take the Circular Quay to Cockatoo Island ferry and stop at Greenwich. Parking is available on Albert or O’Conell Street, or visitors can take the 267 bus down from Wollstonecraft Station.
Where: Albert St, Greenwich NSW 2065.
When: Open 7am-6pm.
9. Milk Beach
This small, isolated beach is another well-kept secret, situated at the base of Hermit Bay within the Sydney Harbour National Park. Walk along the harbour foreshore and take in the views, or go snorkelling off the rocks. This secluded beach feels like a hidden gem, yet it’s just a short walk from New South Head Road, nestled beside the Heritage-listed Strickland House.
To reach Milk Beach, hop on the 324 or 325 bus from the city, then enjoy a short scenic walk down to the waterfront. There’s also limited off-street parking.
Where: Vaucluse Road, Vaucluse NSW 2030.
When: Open 24 hours.
Looking for more swimming spots in Sydney?
Here are our favourite picks just north of Sydney Harbour from the Northern Beaches from a local expert.
Looking for cleaner water? Head just a little further up the coast away from Sydney Harbour and jump into some local swimming spots. Whether you trek it up to Palm Beach lighthouse or just a few stops past Spit Bridge, this is your opportunity to see Sydney’s best swimming spots beyond the bridge.
10. Palm Beach Rockpool
Located at the south end of Palm Beach at the tip of the Northern Beaches, this scenic rockpool is perfect for individuals, couples and families. With a dedicated Surf Life Saving Club nearby, you will find yourself in safe hands with regular patrols on the weekends and public holidays.
Where: Ocean Rd, Palm Beach NSW 2108
Cost: Free
11. Mona Vale Rockpool
Mona Vale is the Northern Beaches most convenient beach to get to and is something to behold. Located near the Mona Vale Surf Life Saving Club, this rockpool is great on a sunny day for a quick dip. Located at the midpoint of the beach, its easy enough to walk to from the car park.
Where: 1 Surfview Rd, Mona Vale NSW 2103
Cost: Free
12. Northbridge Baths
For those who prefer a more secluded spot, Northbridge Baths are tucked away on the edge of Middle Harbour, surrounded by bushland and sprawling waterfront homes. This tidal bath is perfect for families, with a jetty for jumping, BBQs, change rooms, and ample parking. There are also hot showers available.
The baths are located in Northbridge, a suburb on the lower North Shore. You can catch the 202 bus from the city, and then embark on a short 10-minute walk to the spot. Since the baths are located on Harbour Trust land, dogs are not allowed.
Where: 2 Widgiewa Rd, Northbridge NSW 2063.
When: Open 24 hours.
13. Bilgola Rockpool
Tucked away between Newport and Avalon, this spot is located at Bilgola Beach on your way up The Bends. Known for being a secret gem for the locals, this is a great spot for a coffee and a dive if you’re feeling up to it. Located at the south end of the beach, its a short walk from the carpark and the local sandwich shop.
Where: 1 The Serpentine, Bilgola Beach NSW 2107
Cost: Free
14. South Curl Curl Ocean Pool
Every Thursday, you can spot the local run club head down the boardwalk before diving into the local ocean pool at the south end of Cur Curl’s luxury golden sands. Loved by the locals, this spot is alway packed with avid swimmers and families especially on a warm summer’s day.
Where: Curl Curl NSW 2096
Cost: Free
15. Fairy Bower Rockpool
Located in Manly, this is more hustle and bussle than the previous mentions. A big tourist attraction and lots of people, only head to Fairy Bower Rockpool if you can handle the crowds. Located at the southern end of the beach, this devine beach is something to behold.
Where: Marine Parade Manly NSW 2095 Australia
Cost: Free
16. Collaroy Rockpool
A larger than average rockpool is great for safe swims with the family without getting claustrophobic from hords of people. Located half way up the Northern beaches, this is a great spot for a Sunday lunch and swim.
Where: Beach Rd, Collaroy NSW 2097
Cost: Free
FAQs
Where is it safe to swim in Sydney?
We’ve featured some of the safest places to swim in Sydney Harbour, as most of them have nets or are marked as designated swimming areas to protect swimmers from boats. In terms of pollution, swimmers are advised to use their judgement before entering the harbour. If the water appears discoloured, has an unusual smell, contains visible rubbish, or if there’s been recent heavy rain, it’s best to avoid swimming for at least three days following rainfall.
Where to go skinny dipping in Sydney?
Public nudity is a no-go in non-designated areas. However, Sydney does have official nude beaches, including Lady Bay Beach in Watsons Bay, Cobblers Beach in Middle Head, Obelisk Beach in Mosman and Washaway Beach in Clontarf.
Is the whole of Sydney Harbour swimmable?
The City of Sydney does have plans to improve water quality and make more of the harbour swimmable, but it’s not as easy as throwing up a few shark nets. There are years of pollution and outdated sewage systems that need an overhaul. The council has been working with Sydney Water to fix the water quality, but it’s going to take time—and a lot of cash.
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