Our pick of Summer swimming spots

Published on 18 October 2022

Some of the most magical swimming days are in Summer. The weather can get quite warm over the summer months and the cool water provides the best relief from the heat. We've put together a list of our favourite swimming spots in the Woollahra Council area.

Spring into Murray Rose Pool

This has to be our number one favourite Summer hangout. The scenery around Murray Rose Pool and surrounding Blackburn Gardens is simply breathtaking and a swim in these waters is rejuvenating. This spot can get popular so take advantage of the quieter times and score yourself prime property on the sand, just footsteps away from the water.

Murray Rose Pool is a harbourside tidal enclosure with two floating pontoons. The kids (and grownups) can spend all day swimming up to the pontoons and leaping into the water. There is also a wrap-around boardwalk, which provides easy access into the pool.

If the weather is slightly nippy, spread your towel on the grass and while away the day with a book and a picnic or grab some hot food, coffee or snacks from the cafe.

After your swim, how about popping into the Woollahra Gallery at Redleaf. The gallery is situated in the nearby picturesque Blackburn Gardens and hosts wonderful art exhibitions. The gallery is open Wednesday - Friday: 10:00am-6:00pm and Saturday and Sunday: 10:00am-5:00pm. Entry is free.

Murray Rose Pool is perfect for a Summer swim

Watsons Bay Baths

It's easy to spend a whole day at Watsons Bay - visiting the Gap, Robertson Park, browsing through the shops and enjoying a picnic lunch of fish 'n chips on the grass. If the weather is on the warmer side, taking a dip in the Baths is a must-do.

Watsons Bay baths is a fully accessible harbourside tidal enclosure that is popular with all age groups. The baths consist of two floating turning board/sunbathing pontoons, a boardwalk and seating with great views of Sydney Harbour. The baths also have Australia's first deep water wheelchair access to a tidal harbour pool.

Leaping into the cool waters of Watsons Bay Baths

Camp Cove Beach

Camp Cove Beach must be every local's favourite beach and swimming spot. This stretch of pristine sand is nestled adjacent to Sydney Harbour National Park close to Watson’s Bay. It offers perfect paddling conditions for young kids as the water is usually calm with small ripples. The harbour views above the water are beautiful, but it’s the marine life beneath the surface that is truly fascinating. Bring along a snorkel and goggles and explore the rocks to spot a variety of different fish and critters. You could see an octopus, cuttlefish, frogfish and maybe even a seahorse or two!

After a dip in the water, take a walk up the stairs and join the South Head Heritage Trail, which meanders along the coast towards the red-and-white striped Hornby Lighthouse. Then grab an ice-cream from the kiosk and just chill out on the sand.

Parking around here can be tricky during the peak of Summer so head to the beach early and get your fill of Camp Cove before the crowds arrive.

Camp Cove Beach is our pick for a scenic swim

Parsley Bay

Parsley Bay Reserve offers the trifecta of Summer perfection - we’re talking swimming beach, fabulous playground and perfect-for-picnics grass. It’s one of those spots that you can arrive for an early morning dip in the still waters and stay until dinner time.

The cool, calm waters of the Parsley Bay swimming enclosure are perfect for young kids as the shallow waters are extensive.

After a swim, you can amble along the short bushland walking circuit (15-20 minutes return) that takes you to a waterfall at the head of the gully.

Parsley Bay’s iconic suspension bridge provides a gorgeous vista across the harbour and a birds-eye view of swimmers and snorkelers in the water below.

There’s a well-stocked cafe for snack items, hot food and ice-creams or bring your own food and enjoy a picnic on the grass.

Parsley Bay has a fascinating history which goes back hundreds of years ago. Find out more about one of Woollahra's best kept secrets.

Parsley Bay is a wonderful place to relax or get active in Summer

As a general precaution, swimming in Sydney Harbour should be avoided for three days after rain. Before you swim in the harbour, we recommend you check the Beachwatch website.