Swimming
Northern Illawarra ocean pools compared
Every ocean pool between Stanwell Park and Bulli compared, with the best pool for laps, for kids and for the view, and how to swim them safely.
Ocean pools are concrete or rock-walled pools built on the rock platforms at the ends of beaches. The sea tops them up at high tide and in big swell. They are free, they are open all year, and they are the safest way to swim in the ocean on this coast.
Six of the nine villages between Stanwell Park and Bulli have one. Austinmer has two.
Which villages have an ocean pool?
Coalcliff, Wombarra, Coledale, Austinmer, Thirroul and Bulli. Stanwell Park, Clifton and Scarborough do not.
Ocean pools at a glance
| Pool | Village | Setting | Best for | Station nearby |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coalcliff rock pool | Coalcliff | Rock shelf below the cliffs | Drama at high tide, early swims | Yes |
| Wombarra rock pool | Wombarra | End of a quiet beach | Quiet laps | Yes |
| Coledale ocean pool | Coledale | South end, lawns behind | Families | Yes |
| Austinmer pools (two) | Austinmer | Beside the boat harbour | The view, a classic beach day | Yes |
| Thirroul ocean pool | Thirroul | 50 m pool by the surf club | Proper laps | Yes |
| Bulli rock pool | Bulli | Out at the point | A swim with the surfers | Yes |
Which pool is best for laps?
Thirroul. Its 50-metre pool is the longest on the stretch and the one serious swimmers use. Wombarra is shorter but far quieter.
Which pool is best for kids?
Coledale. It sits at the southern end of a patrolled family beach, with grass for a picnic and shops a short walk away. Austinmer is also good, but much busier.
Which pool has the best view?
Coalcliff, for drama: it sits right on the edge of the rock shelf with the cliffs above, and the swell washes over the wall at high tide. Austinmer, for the postcard: two pools, the harbour and the escarpment behind.
How do you swim an ocean pool safely?
- Check the swell. In big seas, waves break over the walls and can knock you off your feet. Pools may be closed.
- Watch your footing. The rock platforms and pool edges are slippery with weed.
- Check the cleaning roster. Wollongong City Council drains and cleans each pool on a schedule.
- Never turn your back on the ocean when you are on the rock platform.
Frequently asked questions
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Are the northern Illawarra ocean pools free?
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Yes. The ocean pools between Coalcliff and Bulli are free to use and open all year, except when they are closed for cleaning or dangerous seas.
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Which ocean pool is best for swimming laps?
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Thirroul. Its 50-metre pool beside the surf club is the best on this stretch for proper laps. Wombarra is a quieter alternative.
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Which ocean pool is best for children?
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Coledale. The pool sits at the southern end of a patrolled family beach, with lawns behind it and shops nearby.
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How often are the ocean pools cleaned?
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Wollongong City Council drains and cleans the ocean pools on a regular roster. Each pool is closed for part of a day while it refills. Check the council's pool cleaning schedule before you go.
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Do Stanwell Park and Clifton have ocean pools?
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No. Stanwell Park, Clifton and Scarborough have no ocean pool. The nearest are Coalcliff, north of Clifton, and Wombarra, next to Scarborough.