Australia’s oldest swimming pool is reopening to the public after an $8 million restoration.

We’re totally spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches in Sydney. For better or for worse though, mother nature sometimes wreaks havoc, leaving nothing but bluebottles, rips and possible sharks in her path. For the times when you still want the scent of salt on your skin, we turn to the incredible beach pools hemmed across our coastline.

While Bondi Icebergs is indeed Sydney’s most Instagrammed pool, Dawn Fraser Baths was the very first pool to be built in Australia. “Dawnys”, as referred to by the locals was nestled on the edge of Balmain in the 1880s. The tidal flow saltwater pool is heritage listed and holds many memories for generations of water polo teams and swimming clubs. The pool itself is very spacious and it even has its own kiosk for your ice cream fix on summer days.

Dawnys has just finished an $8 million pamper as part of the Governments restoration project. With new luxe boardwalks, beaming solar panels and water polo lights, as well as necessary emergency updates, the pools are ready to cool off thousands of Sydneysiders as soon as the current public health restrictions are lifted.

The council is celebrating its opening with an extended winter swimming season. They’re even waiving the costs of entry for two weeks. Additionally, a winter 2021 program of activities has been developed including yoga, pilates and tai chi to keep everyone fit and healthy.

Dawn Fraser Baths have reopened to the public for exercise purposes on Wednesday, 8 September 2021. Bookings are essential and available in one-hour window periods. Make your booking here

Discover more of Sydney’s best beach pools here