Winter is here and with it comes the temptation to hibernate under warm blankets and avoid the chill. But what if this year you embraced the cold in a whole new way?

Here’s a run-down of where you can swim throughout winter. There’s also good news for those who don’t like the ‘brrrr cold’ – there are many local heated and indoor options to enjoy.

Prince Alfred Park Pool

With its environmentally friendly, heated outdoor pool, enjoy a serene swimming experience under the open sky, even during the colder months.

Average winter water temp: 26-28°C

105 Chalmers Street
Surry Hills NSW
Visit online

 

Image: courtesy of @ianthorpe_aquatic
Image: courtesy of @ianthorpe_aquatic

 

Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre

In the heart of Ultimo, this heated indoor pool that makes a perfect spot for laps or a leisurely swim, regardless of the weather outside.

Average winter water temp: 27°C

458 Harris Street
Ultimo NSW
Visit online

 

Cook + Phillip Park Pool. Image: City of Sydney / Abril Felman, 2022.
Cook + Phillip Park Pool. Image: City of Sydney / Abril Felman, 2022.

 

Cook and Phillip Park Aquatic and Fitness Centre

An Olympic-sized heated indoor pool that caters to both professional swimmers and families looking for fun and fitness, making it an excellent choice to do some laps on those chilly winter days.

Average winter water temp: 26°C

4 College Street
Sydney NSW
Visit online

 

Marrinawi Cove, Sydney. Image: courtesy of @barangaroosydney
Marrinawi Cove, Sydney. Image: courtesy of @barangaroosydney

 

Marrinawi Cove

Located at Barangaroo, this harbourside cove offers an invigorating dip opportunity with Instagram-worthy views of Sydney Harbour.

Average winter water temp: 16-18°C

Hickson Road
Barangaroo NSW

 

Image: City of Sydney, 2016
Image: City of Sydney, 2016

 

Victoria Park Pool

Located amidst the green expanses of 9 hectare Victoria Park, this heated outdoor pool provides a warmer escape that allows you to enjoy swimming all year round.

Average winter water temp: 26-28°C

Parramatta Road
Camperdown NSW
Visit online

 

Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre, Zetland. Image: Chris Southwood / City of Sydney, 2022
Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre, Zetland. Image: Chris Southwood / City of Sydney, 2022

 

Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre

Our newest aquatic centre features a heated indoor pool and a waterpark with slides – ideal for everyone from elite swimmers to families.

Average winter water temp: 27°C

Zetland Ave
Zetland
Visit online

 

Image: courtesy of @morningbondi
Image: courtesy of @morningbondi

 

Further afloat: swim spots outside our LGA

If you wish to venture a little further from our LGA, these harbour and ocean pools are perfect for a colder plunge, not to mention their spectacular views.

 

Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay. Image: courtesy of @placesweswim
Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay. Image: courtesy of @placesweswim

 

Murray Rose Pool

Formerly known as Redleaf Pool, this harbourside tidal enclosure offers clean, calm (and cold) waters to wake you up in winter – take a jump off the jetty or catch rays on the floating pontoons.

Average winter water temp: 16-18°C

New South Head Road
Double Bay NSW

 

Image: courtesy of @morningbondi
Image: courtesy of @morningbondi

 

Bondi Icebergs Club

Iconic for its ocean pool, Bondi Icebergs is the place to be for those who want to brave the freezing Pacific Ocean in winter. The pool is not heated, offering a spicy dip with stunning views of Bondi Beach.

Average winter water temp: 16-18°C

1 Notts Avenue
Bondi Beach NSW

 

Image: courtesy of @placesweswim
Image: courtesy of @placesweswim

 

MacCallum Pool

This secluded harbourside tidal pool offers breath taking views of Sydney Harbour. While it’s unheated, the lush surroundings make it a favourite for peaceful winter plunges.

Average winter water temp: 16-18°C

Milson Road
Cremorne Point NSW

 

by jay