My favourite pool
A roundup of writers' favourite ocean baths and rockpools along the Australian coastline
My favourite pool: Mahon pool, Maroubra, NSW
Sheltered from from the hustle of city life, Mahon pool gives its visitors room to breathe, free admission, free parking, and rock pools teeming with critters for children to explore
My favourite pool: Dawn Fraser Baths, Balmain, NSW
Used by everyone from Olympic gold-medallists to retired wharfies, swimming in the oldest pool in Australia is like dipping into the past
My favourite pool: Prince Alfred Park Pool, Sydney
Surrounded by Sydney’s tall buildings is a summer oasis for those needing to cool off – and on weekday mornings you can have your own lane
My favourite pool: Blue Pool, Bermagui
Blue Pool and its cool clear waters are loved by lap swimmers and holidaymakers alike
My favourite pool: Palm Beach rockpool, NSW
Nestled in a corner of Sydney’s northernmost beach, this 50-metre pool is protected from southerly winds by a steep headland
My favourite pool: Wylie's baths, Coogee, NSW
Historic baths where time stands still and a spirited ocean is close enough to challenge a spring or autumn swimmer