7 Lower North Shore swimming spots worth visiting

Depending on your tolerance for cold temperatures, there’s no excuse not to hit the water in Sydney year-round. Neutral Bay and its surrounds are such wonderful places to live because residents enjoy close access to so many pools and beaches. Here’s a roundup of a few of our favourites. 

Mosman Swim Centre

The Mosman Swim Centre has an indoor, heated 25-metre pool that is open to all members of the community. There is disabled access and equipment, plus a water feature and leisure area for families. The facility has its own Don Adan Cafe (local favourite baristas) so you have every reason to visit and enjoy the experience. 

Visit the website to find out about swimming lessons and lane availability.

Northbridge Baths

Set along the Sydney Harbour foreshore, within the beautiful bushland of middle harbour, the Northbridge Baths is a tidal pool that you can turn into a day trip thanks to a picnic area with barbecues, plus hot showers and toilet facilities. Great for small kids who can paddle in the shallows, while teens and adult swimmers will enjoy the diving area and lap lane. 

Clontarf Beach

Another spot that’s ideal for families is Clontarf Beach, which offers lots of shady spots to set up a picnic rug, a playground and a cafe – understandably, it’s a popular spot on hot days. If you live close by, this is also ideal for a morning run. 

Balmoral Beach

With its calm waters and dining hotspots, Balmoral is the perfect place to visit at any time of day. It’s very child friendly and has lovely walking tracks surrounding it. 

Arrive early with your paddle board or kayak to make the most of an incredible Sydney sunrise or meet friends for a picnic on the grass as the sun goes down.

The challenge with Balmoral can be parking your car as it is a popular spot. Plan your visit and leave time to find a space or take public transport. 

Chinamans Beach

You’ll need to be nimble to access this best-kept secret. Another wave-free spot, Chinamans is north of Balmoral and accessed via the steep and winding Parriwi Road. It’s great for snorkeling as well as swimming. 

Artist Ken Done captured this beach from his terrace in one of his iconic paintings but you will rarely find it as crowded as the picture depicts. If you’re visiting on a weekend or public holiday, be prepared to trek a little way as car spots do go quickly. Bring your picnic blanket and some snacks; there are no stores or restaurants here. 

Maccallum Seawater Pool

Maccallum Seawater Pool is on the western side of Cremorne Point and is filled with water from the harbour. This 33 metre pool was created many decades ago after a push from local residents and was named after an active community member named Maccallum. 

You won’t find a large number of tourists and out-of-towners at this spot most of the time, partly because it’s not so well-known and partly because there are no toilets or change rooms.

Keep an eye on cleaning times so you will be able to swim when you arrive. 

Cobblers Beach

If you’re after something completely different, venture to one of Sydney’s few nude bathing spots. 

Cobblers Beach is in the Sydney Harbour National Park and is another calm water spot that’s ideal for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. Swimwear is optional! 

You’ll find details on how to access this beach here.

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Neutral Bay and its surrounds offer such a great quality of life – if you are thinking of buying, selling or investing here, please get in touch.