Ocean pools are a quintessentially Australian treasure, with NSW swimmers particularly spoilt for choice when it comes to these iconic locations.
Of literally all shapes and sizes, each pool boasts its own story. They can be a social glue for community groups, a place to exercise, or a place to see the sunrise or sunset.
They offer both a spiritual connection to ocean, and shelter from its unpredictability, a disconnection from the world, and a connection to community.
When it comes to natural beauty, prime location, and variety, no city is more blessed for these saltwater sanctuaries than Wollongong, with its nine ocean rock pools stretching from Coalcliff in the north the those in the heart of the Wollongong foreshore.
All feature in Destination Wollongong’s Wollongong Rockpool Challenge, inviting people to get their feet wet in each of them. Can you get it done this summer?
Coalcliff Rock Pool
At the southern end of Coalcliff Beach you will find the Wollongong region’s northernmost ocean pool offering amazing views of the ocean and the mountains to the north.
Tucked under the escarpment, it is the ideal cooling off spot after a walk or ride along the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge just a kilometre to the north. With an adjoining kids’ pool, it’s the perfect spot for family adventure.
Wombarra Rock Pool
The rock platform pool nestled among Norfolk Island Pines offers incredible ocean views. Its location offers prime position to catch a glimpse of passing whales and dolphins.
Post-swim, it’s worth making the short journey to nearby Wombarra Bowling Club, hugely popular with locals, for a drink and a feed.
Coledale Rock Pool
Volunteer-constructed, this 50-metre pool was opened in 1921 with a swimming carnival, making it a great spot to get in some laps in.
With its rock platform location, you’ll feel like you’re swimming in the middle of the ocean.
Austinmer Rock Pool
The southern end of the hugely popular Austinmer Beach offers a two-for-one attraction with two rectangular pools overlooked by a recently renovated bathers pavilion which has accessible amenities including an adult hoist.
The inviting location makes it a favourite for swimmers, but its positioning makes it susceptible to rougher ocean swells and best enjoyed in calmer conditions.
Bulli Rock Pool
Constructed in the 1930s, this 50-metre pool sits in the ocean, with access via the golden sands of Bulli Beach. Its location makes it best enjoyed at low-tide, with high-tide conditions likely to submerge both the 50-metre and accompanying kid’s pool.
Woonona Rock Pool
Recognisable by its distinctive historic pavilion, Woonona’s 50-metre pool with original 1929 diving blocks and a natural bottom is a lap-swimmer’s paradise.
Cooling off here also offers terrific views of Bulli Beach to the north, and Woonona Beach to the south.
Bellambi Rock Pool
Wollongong’s youngest rock pool was built in 1965 as the Towradgi-Bellambi Rock Pool Committee sought to provide a place for local children to learn to swim.
The 50-metre pool runs parallel to the ocean and is frequented all-year round. With ramp entry and a kids’ pool, it’s a family friendly spot for all ages.
Towradgi Rock Pool
A short walk along the track from Corrimal Beach Tourist Park, this Olympic-sized pool was opened in 1964 to coincide with the Tokyo Olympics, with Australia’s anticipated success at the Games expected to inspire a generation of swimmers.
A product of volunteer labour from locals, it holds a special place in the hearts of residents.
The Gentleman’s Pool
Set in a rock platform just north of the popular Continental Pool, the Gentleman’s Pool is one of Wollongong’s favourite rock pools, and perhaps the easiest to miss.
Construction of the oldest rock pool on this list dates back to 1890, which made it Wollongong’s most popular competition pool prior to the opening the neighbouring Continental Pool.
Now accessible via a newly constructed ramp, the most ‘untamed’ of Wollongong’s pools offers the opportunity to swim in the ocean, though its most safely enjoyed in calm conditions.
Wollongong Continental Pool
Named for being the first pool in Wollongong to offer mixed bathing for men, women and children, then known as ‘continental bathing’.
Opened in 1928, the pool began with volunteer labour before being taken over by Wollongong Council to bring it to fruition.
Upgrades in the early 1960s brought the pool up to its present state, with an eight-lane 50-metre lap pool alongside an adjoining 45-metre leisure pool and pavilion.
Built against the northern harbour wall, Wollongong’s most famous ocean pool sits just north of Belmore Basin between the iconic Flagstaff Hill to the south and North Gong Beach to the north.
Remember, ocean rockpools require specialist cleaning and maintenance and it’s always wise to check Wollongong Council’s website for any potential closures before heading out.