Monash Aquatic and Recreation Centre
A comprehensive aquatic and fitness centre in Glen Waverley, offering pools, a gym, and group classes for community recreation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more lane space
Monash Aquatic and Recreation Centre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more lane space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A comprehensive aquatic and fitness centre in Glen Waverley, offering pools, a gym, and group classes for community recreation.
"An essential community asset with a broad range of quality facilities for fitness and fun."
Check Timetable First
Lanes are often booked for lessons/events. Check the timetable online before you go! :calendar:
Membership Value
Regular visitors should explore membership options for cost savings and gym access. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wave Pool Fun
Aquatic Area
Experience the thrill of the wave pool, a popular attraction for families and a great way to cool off.
Heated Outdoor Pool
Outdoor Aquatic Area
Enjoy year-round swimming in the 50m heated outdoor pool, perfect for training or casual laps.
Fitness & Classes
Gym & Studio Areas
Access a wide range of fitness equipment and participate in diverse group fitness classes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Membership & Pricing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Best place to learn to swim?
Check Timetable First
Lanes are often booked for lessons/events. Check the timetable online before you go! :calendar:
Membership Value
Regular visitors should explore membership options for cost savings and gym access. :moneybag:
Gym in Glen Waverley
Spa Area Crowded
The spa area can get busy; consider visiting during off-peak times for a more relaxing experience. :relax:
Cafe Surcharges
Be aware of credit card and weekend surcharges at the cafe. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Timetable First
Lanes are often booked for lessons/events. Check the timetable online before you go! :calendar:
Membership Value
Regular visitors should explore membership options for cost savings and gym access. :moneybag:
Spa Area Crowded
The spa area can get busy; consider visiting during off-peak times for a more relaxing experience. :relax:
Cafe Surcharges
Be aware of credit card and weekend surcharges at the cafe. :warning:
Swim School Support
Staff like Peter are praised for patient and clear communication, especially for non-native English speakers. :speech_balloon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Monash Aquatic and Recreation Centre is a valued community hub with extensive aquatic and fitness facilities, including a popular wave pool and heated outdoor pool. While praised for its range of offerings and helpful staff, some visitors note issues with inconsistent pricing, occasional closures of the toddler pool, and high cafe costs. The centre can also get crowded, particularly during peak times and when lanes are booked for lessons.
"I came to the swimming centre with both my husband and my daughter for a fun day out. I was approached by the lifeguard on duty not to film my family having a wonderful time and had to delete the video due to privacy issues. Even though I explained to them what was going on. The toddler area is always closed due to either high or low chlorine issues. They said they would fix the pump by summer which isn't good enough. All the lanes are always fully booked due to swimming aerobics or swimming lessons. I was advised to use the crowded swimming pool which is 1.5m deep for my daughter who is only 2 years old. Not a safe option and wasn't gonna take the risk of having my daughter drown. Prices are never the same each time . Different workers will charge what they think , which is very unprofessional. Unable to communicate with lifeguards if there's an issue . Only one worker at reception was willing to help out to try and solve the issue. Very nice of her to do"
Chrysanthe Paps
"The Monash Aquatic & Recreation Centre is an essential community asset. It earns high marks for its extensive range of aquatic facilities, including the famous wave pool, and its broad fitness program offering. While busy times can test the capacity of the auxiliary services (parking and change rooms), the sheer variety and quality of the facilities make it an exceptional choice for anyone looking for a comprehensive health, fitness, and recreation venue in the Monash area."
Champika Dinusha Bowie
"Attended this place for the Metro East District championship swimming meet. Equipped with 50m outdoor pool, this is one of the best local pool to have a race, practice or even just have fun. The outdoor pool is heated to the right temperature, so you won't feel the chill on the freezing Autumn or Winter morning.
There is also an indoor pool for the one that prefer much warmer temperature but when you came out you will feel the chill."
Effendy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The centre is located in Glen Waverley. Public transport options include buses that stop nearby. Driving is also common, with parking available on-site, though it can get busy during peak times.
Yes, there is parking available at the Monash Aquatic and Recreation Centre. However, reviews suggest it can become crowded, especially during busy periods.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the official Monash Aquatic and Recreation Centre website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening and closing times.
Yes, the centre is accessible by public transport. Several bus routes service the Glen Waverley area, with stops within walking distance of the centre.
While not explicitly mentioned, cycling is a viable option for locals. Secure bike parking facilities would be ideal, though not confirmed in reviews.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry prices can fluctuate. It's recommended to check the official website or contact the centre directly for the most current pricing for casual entry, concessions, and family passes.
For casual visits, booking in advance may not always be necessary, but it's advisable during peak times or school holidays to ensure entry. Check their website for any booking requirements.
Typically, aquatic centres offer concession rates for children, seniors, and students. Confirm specific pricing tiers with the centre.
Filming is restricted, especially of other patrons, due to privacy concerns. Lifeguards may ask you to delete footage if it violates privacy policies.
Membership benefits vary. Some memberships may grant access to pools and gym, while others might be specific. Inquire about membership inclusions.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The centre boasts a wave pool, indoor and outdoor heated pools, a toddler area (sometimes closed), a gym, and group fitness studios.
Unfortunately, reviews indicate the toddler area can be closed due to chlorine level issues. It's advisable to check its operational status before your visit.
Yes, both the indoor and the 50m outdoor pools are heated, making them comfortable for swimming in cooler weather.
Yes, the centre offers swimming lessons. They are praised for having supportive staff who can explain details clearly, even for those with language barriers.
The gym offers a range of machines and is part of the broader recreation centre. It's a good option for those looking for a comprehensive fitness experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site. However, reviews mention that cafe prices can be high, with additional surcharges for credit card and weekend use.
The offerings at the cafe are described as not the best, and prices are considered exorbitant by some visitors.
The Glen Waverley area has numerous dining options. If you find the on-site cafe too expensive or limited, exploring nearby restaurants is a good alternative.
Policies on bringing outside food can vary. It's best to check with the centre directly, especially if you plan to have a picnic.
Water fountains are typically available at such facilities for refilling water bottles, which is a good option to stay hydrated without purchasing drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is permitted, but with strict privacy rules. You cannot film or photograph other patrons without their consent. Lifeguards enforce these rules.
The outdoor pool area, especially on a sunny day, offers good photographic opportunities. The wave pool can also make for dynamic shots.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in public recreational facilities due to safety and privacy regulations.
For indoor shots, a camera with good low-light performance or a smartphone with a capable night mode would be beneficial, though lighting can be variable.
You can take photos of your own children, but be mindful of other families and avoid capturing them in your shots without permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with young children, consider bringing snacks or planning to eat off-site, as the on-site cafe has been criticized for high prices and surcharges.
🏋️ Fitness Enthusiasts
If you're considering a membership, it could offer excellent value, providing access to both the aquatic facilities and the gym. Be sure to inquire about the different Monash Aquatic Centre membership tiers to find one that best suits your fitness routine and budget. While the centre is a community asset, some reviews suggest it could benefit from an upgrade, but the range of equipment and classes generally meets the needs of most fitness enthusiasts.
💰 Budget-Conscious Visitors
To maximize value, try to visit during off-peak hours when it might be less crowded and potentially more relaxed. Checking the centre's timetable for lane availability is also crucial to avoid disappointment if all lanes are booked for lessons or events.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Aquatic Facilities at Monash
Lane availability in the pools can be a point of contention, as many are frequently booked for swimming aerobics classes and swimming lessons. This means casual swimmers might find themselves sharing lanes or needing to adjust their plans. The centre's commitment to community programs is evident, but it does impact the experience for those seeking open swimming time. It's crucial to consult the Monash Aquatic Centre timetable before visiting to ensure your preferred pool and time are accessible.
Despite some operational challenges, like the occasional closure of the toddler pool and the high demand for lanes, the aquatic facilities are a core reason for the centre's popularity. The heated pools, especially the outdoor one, are highlighted as a major benefit for consistent training and recreation throughout the year.
Fitness and Wellness at Monash
Reviews suggest that the centre is a valuable community asset, providing essential health and recreation services. While some visitors have noted that the facilities could benefit from an upgrade and that the spa area can become crowded, the breadth of offerings is generally well-received. The focus on providing a holistic approach to wellness, combining aquatic activities with gym and class options, is a key strength.
For those seeking a complete fitness solution, the Monash Recreation Centre aspect complements the aquatic facilities, offering a one-stop shop for various exercise needs. The availability of classes and a well-equipped gym makes it an attractive option for residents in the Glen Waverley area.
Navigating Pricing and Value
Furthermore, the on-site cafe has drawn criticism for its exorbitant prices and additional surcharges, including a 2.7% fee on credit card payments and a 10% weekend surcharge. This has led some visitors to avoid the cafe altogether and seek dining options elsewhere. For those considering regular visits, exploring Monash Aquatic Centre membership options might offer better value and access to facilities like the gym.
Despite these concerns about pricing transparency and cafe costs, the overall quality and variety of facilities are often seen as justifying the expense for many. It's advisable to verify all costs directly with the centre and to compare membership benefits against casual entry fees to determine the most cost-effective approach for your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit