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Three Sydney Swimming Spots Have Reopened Just in Time for Summer
Race you there!
Sydney might boast some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, but let’s be honest, unless you live within walking distance, a day by the ocean often requires planning, patience and even a lengthy commute. Fortunately, this summer brings good news for city dwellers and Western Sydney locals, with three swimming spots officially reopening and making it easier than ever to cool off close to home.
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The biggest buzz is around Marrinawi Cove. This is Barangaroo’s sparkling harbourside swimming hole that has become a favourite for city workers craving a lunchtime dip and weekenders chasing that Sydney Harbour magic. After a brief closure, the cove has reopened with a suite of upgrades (think an extra 150 square metres of swimming space, a larger leisure area on land, new non-slip platforms, accessibility improvements and double outdoor showers). To celebrate the season, the precinct is rolling out summer-long activations including free live music, pop-up gelato and barista-made coffee every weekend from December 6th through to March. It’s set to be one of the most vibrant spots on the harbour this summer.
Out west, Pondi (the unofficial nickname for Penrith Beach) is also reopening for the season, welcoming back swimmers from December 6th. The manmade freshwater beach has become a phenomenon in its own right, drawing more than 330,000 visitors since opening and offering Western Sydney residents a much-needed local alternative to coastal beaches. This year brings extended opening hours from 7am to 7pm during peak summer, along with expanded shaded seating, outdoor showers and upgraded amenities. Its biggest drawcard is still the sweeping views of the Blue Mountains, which gives you the best of beach and rugged hillside beauty. With over 350 parking spaces and a free shuttle from Penrith Station, it’s all been intentionally designed for stress-free summer fun.
For those seeking something quieter, Bedlam Bay has reopened as one of Sydney’s most tranquil swim spots. Tucked into a peaceful bushland pocket on the Parramatta River, it offers calm water, natural scenery and a serene escape from the city’s busier beaches. If you’re an early morning swimmer or someone who just wants a bit of peace and quiet, this is a hidden gem.
With each of these newly reopened spots it feels like Sydney’s summer swim season is officially in full swing. And it’s just in time, with temperatures set to keep soaring, cooling off has never been more convenient.
Love this article? Why not check out Sydney’s best wild swimming spots or its best kid-friendly beaches.
