Best Public Swimming Pools in Sydney: Indoor & Aquatic Centres
Sydney has a big network of public aquatic centres for lap swimmers, families and anyone after a warm-water program pool. The wild spots get the attention, but a managed pool gives you consistent water quality, heated water and lifeguards on deck.
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If you're searching for a swimming pool near you, or an indoor pool for year-round training, these are some of the best public pools in Sydney.
1. Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre, Zetland
Opened in 2021, Gunyama Park is one of Sydney's newest and greenest swimming centres.
- The pools: A 50-metre heated outdoor pool inspired by Sydney's ocean pools, a 25-metre heated indoor pool with a movable floor, and an indoor hydrotherapy pool.
- Design: The centre has a 5-star Green Star design rating from the Green Building Council of Australia, thanks to its waste, water and energy initiatives.
- For families: A kids' water play area with a shallow pool, slides, sprays and a tipping bucket.
2. Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, Ultimo
Close to the CBD, this centre is known for its wave-like roof designed by architect Harry Seidler.
- The pools: A heated indoor 50-metre lap pool, plus a heated leisure pool, a spa and a warm-water program pool.
- Getting there: There's a light rail stop at the rear of the centre, and Town Hall Station is about a 20-minute walk.
3. Parramatta Aquatic Centre (PAC)
Parramatta finally has its pool back. This $88.6 million centre opened in Parramatta Park in September 2023, replacing the old Parramatta War Memorial Swimming Pool.
- The pools: A heated 50-metre, 10-lane outdoor pool, a heated 25-metre indoor pool and a dedicated indoor learn-to-swim pool.
- For families: An all-abilities splash and play zone with a beach-style entry.
4. More Public Pools Around Sydney
Beyond the city centre, these suburban and regional pools are worth knowing about:
- Lane Cove Aquatic Leisure Centre: Indoor and outdoor swimming options.
- Ashfield Aquatic Centre: Recently rebuilt, with several pools including one for water polo.
- Gosford Swimming Pool: On the Central Coast, a 50-metre outdoor pool with views of Brisbane Water.
- Liverpool: A major hub for the South West, with learn-to-swim programs and outdoor Olympic-sized pools.
Why Swim at a Public Aquatic Centre?
- Warm water: Indoor pools are heated, and hydrotherapy and program pools are kept warmer again, so you can swim all year.
- Treated water: Unlike the ocean or a creek, water quality doesn't drop after heavy rain.
- Opening hours: Hours change for school holidays, carnivals and squad training. For City of Sydney centres, check current times on the City of Sydney pools page; for other suburbs, check your local council.
Sydney Public Pools FAQs
Which public pools in Sydney are indoor?
The Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre in Ultimo has a heated indoor 50-metre pool. Gunyama Park in Zetland and the Parramatta Aquatic Centre both have heated 25-metre indoor pools alongside their 50-metre outdoor pools.
Does Gunyama Park have a hydrotherapy pool?
Yes. Gunyama Park has an indoor hydrotherapy pool as well as its 50-metre outdoor pool and 25-metre indoor pool.
When did the new Parramatta pool open?
The Parramatta Aquatic Centre opened in Parramatta Park in September 2023, replacing the old Parramatta War Memorial Swimming Pool.
More Places to Swim in Sydney
Prefer salt water? Our Swim New South Wales guide covers the ocean pools, beaches and swimming holes. Start here:
