Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool, Sydney - a swimming pool with a bird swimming in it
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Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool Sydney

4.7
·665 reviews·Sydney, Australia

Swim with iconic Sydney Harbour views at the heated 50m Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool. A revitalized aquatic gem.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful swim

CrowdLow
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Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool, Sydney - a swimming pool with a bird swimming in it

Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool Sydney

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful swim

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Swim with iconic Sydney Harbour views at the heated 50m Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool. A revitalized aquatic gem.

4.7
(665 reviews)

"The best 50m outdoor swimming pool with incredible harbour views!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can be challenging nearby. Consider public transport or arriving early if driving.

🏊‍♀️ Bring Your Own Gear

While some gear might be available, it's best to bring your own goggles, cap, and towel.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Harbour Views

Harbour Views

Poolside

Swim with iconic Sydney Harbour as your backdrop. The views are simply breathtaking, making every lap a scenic experience.

Instagram
Heated 50m Pool

Heated 50m Pool

Main Pool

Enjoy a refreshing dip in the heated 50-meter outdoor pool, perfect for laps or leisurely swimming year-round.

TikTok
Post-Swim Refreshments

Post-Swim Refreshments

Cafe

Grab a coffee or a bite at the on-site cafe after your swim, with stunning harbour vistas.

Instagram

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds

The Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool is a popular spot, especially during summer. To enjoy a more relaxed swim, aim for weekday mornings or evenings. Weekends and public holidays can get very busy, so plan accordingly if you prefer fewer people around you. Reddit

Check Opening Hours

While the pool is a summer favorite, it's open year-round. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date opening hours, as they can vary seasonally and for special events. Some sources mention it's open until 8 PM in February. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful swim
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Enjoy sunset views
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer weekends
Why
Vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Will you be swimming at 'Panly' this summer? #Australia #Sydney #NSW #9News
@9newssydney
6.1K likes • 147.3K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can be challenging nearby. Consider public transport or arriving early if driving. Reddit

🏊‍♀️ Bring Your Own Gear

While some gear might be available, it's best to bring your own goggles, cap, and towel. TikTok

Still bowled over ✨🎥 @carvedbanks IG/bluesnapper IG/pureheartstories IG/annelinde_horsman @hellomanly #feelnewsydney #oceanpool #sydneypools #rockpool
@sydney
1.5K likes • 18.4K views
We are diving in to the newly refurbished Andrew Boy Charlton Pool which opened today to support two incredible local organisations - PCYC Woolloomooloo and Matthew Talbot Hostel. Come check out this...
adamworling
479 likes • 13K views

📱 Check Official Website

For the latest opening hours and any event closures, always check the official ABC Pool website. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially on warm days, remember to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your swim. TikTok

One of Sydney's summer favourites is back, the Andrew Boy Charlton pool at Woolloomooloo, reopened. #7NEWS
7newssyd
334 likes • 37.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can be challenging nearby. Consider public transport or arriving early if driving. Reddit

🏊‍♀️ Bring Your Own Gear

While some gear might be available, it's best to bring your own goggles, cap, and towel. TikTok

📱 Check Official Website

For the latest opening hours and any event closures, always check the official ABC Pool website. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially on warm days, remember to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your swim. TikTok

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your phone to snap photos of the incredible harbour scenery. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(665 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool's spectacular harbour views and the quality of the heated 50m pool. It's praised as a refreshing escape with a great atmosphere, though some find parking challenging and peak times can be crowded. InstagramReddit

"Lovely spot. Staff were attentive and friendly. Easy to order food from a QR code at the table. I had a yummy green bowl for breakfast but was also tempted by the look of their eggs on sourdough. 🤔 Maybe I'll just have to go back."

Nina Beilby

"Excellent long course pool. The view is great and the facilities are clean. It’s a salt water pool, which is refreshing, but can be an adjustment if you’re not used to it. This pool is also popular, so be prepared to share a lane. If you’re an American, get ready to enjoy clockwise circle swimming. There is also a shallow splash pool for small kids. They also sell swimwear, googles, and some other equipment, so don’t fret if you don’t remember something."

Ian H

"The views were amazing.
So cool to be able to see the war ships up close and swim at the same time.
The pool was very very salty which for me knocked the experience down to 4 stars.
Very nice facilities, showers, toilets, changing room all clean and there wasn’t many people there so I got a lane to myself"

Alexa B

What People Like

Stunning harbour views
Heated 50m pool
Community support

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Peak time crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The pool is easily accessible by public transport. You can take a train to Circular Quay and then enjoy a scenic walk along the harbour, or catch a bus that stops nearby. Driving is an option, but parking can be limited and expensive. Reddit

On-site parking is very limited. It's recommended to use public transport or explore nearby paid parking stations if you are driving. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant and relatively short walk from Circular Quay along the Royal Botanic Garden or the harbour foreshore. It's a great way to see more of Sydney. Instagram

The pool facility is generally accessible, with ramps and lifts available. It's always a good idea to contact the pool directly for specific accessibility needs. Instagram

From the CBD, you can walk, take a bus, or even a short ferry ride to Circular Quay and then walk. The walk itself is quite scenic. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry fees are typically affordable for a public pool. Check the official ABC Pool website for current pricing, as it may vary for adults, children, and concessions. Reddit

Generally, you can pay on arrival. However, during peak season or for special events, it's wise to check if pre-booking is recommended or required to guarantee entry. TikTok

The pool is open year-round, but hours vary by season. It's often open until 8 PM during summer months like February. Always confirm the latest hours on their official website. Reddit

Typically, public pools have a standard entry fee for all visitors. Concession rates may be available for students, seniors, or children. Reddit

Yes, if you're using buses or trains, your Opal card is the easiest way to pay for your public transport fares to get near the pool. Reddit

🎫 🏊‍♀️ Onsite Experience

The pool offers a heated 50m pool, a children's pool, change rooms, showers, and a cafe. There are also often swimming lessons available. Instagram

Yes, it can get very busy, especially on hot summer days and weekends. Arriving early or visiting during off-peak hours is recommended for a less crowded experience. Reddit

Absolutely! The 50m heated pool is perfect for lap swimming. Dedicated lanes are usually available. TikTok

Lockers are typically available for use, but it's advisable to bring your own padlock. Check with the pool staff for details on locker availability and cost. Reddit

The main 50m pool is heated, making it comfortable for swimming even on cooler days. The temperature is usually maintained at a pleasant level for swimming. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located at the pool that serves a range of refreshments, from coffee and snacks to light meals. Instagram

Generally, you can bring your own water bottles. For other food and drinks, it's best to check the pool's specific policy, as some may have restrictions. TikTok

The cafe typically offers typical cafe fare like sandwiches, salads, pastries, coffee, and other beverages, perfect for a post-swim treat. Instagram

The pool is located in Woolloomooloo, which has several excellent restaurants and cafes nearby, offering a variety of cuisines. Instagram

Prices at pool cafes can vary, but they are generally in line with typical Sydney cafe prices. It's a convenient option for a quick bite with a view. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo opportunities are from the poolside, capturing the pool with the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House in the background. The cafe area also offers great views. Instagram

Yes, personal photography and videography are generally allowed. However, always be mindful of other swimmers and respect their privacy. TikTok

Drone usage is typically prohibited in public areas like this to ensure safety and privacy. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views of the landmarks. Instagram

Commercial photography or videography usually requires special permission. For personal use, it's generally fine. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool is a fantastic option for families. Beyond the main 50m pool, there's a dedicated children's pool that's perfect for younger swimmers to splash and play safely. The stunning harbour views also make it an enjoyable outing for parents. Instagram

Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water. While there's a cafe, bringing some of your own snacks and drinks can be helpful for picky eaters or to save money. The proximity to the Royal Botanic Garden also offers opportunities for a post-swim park visit. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

ABC Pool offers excellent value for money. The entry fee is generally very reasonable, especially compared to other city attractions. It provides a high-quality swimming experience with incredible views without breaking the bank. Reddit

To save further, consider packing your own lunch and snacks to enjoy at the cafe or designated picnic areas. Utilizing public transport to get there will also be more cost-effective than driving and paying for parking. Reddit

🏃‍♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts

For those looking to maintain their fitness routine, the heated 50-meter pool at Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool is ideal. It's perfect for lap swimming, offering a consistent and enjoyable environment. TikTok

Consider visiting during quieter weekday mornings to maximize your lap time without interruption. The stunning surroundings can also provide extra motivation for your workout. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Refurbished Gem with a View

The Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool, affectionately known as ABC Pool, is a beloved Sydney institution. Recently refurbished, it offers a pristine 50-meter heated pool that's perfect for serious swimmers and casual dippers alike. What truly sets it apart is its unparalleled location, directly on the edge of Sydney Harbour. Imagine doing your laps with the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge as your backdrop – it’s an experience that’s hard to beat. TikTokInstagram

The pool is not just about swimming; it's a community hub. It supports local organizations like PCYC Woolloomooloo and Matthew Talbot Hostel, adding a layer of social good to your visit. The facility includes a children's pool, making it suitable for families, and a cafe where you can relax and soak in the stunning views after your swim. Instagram

Whether you're a local looking for your regular swim spot or a visitor wanting a quintessential Sydney experience, ABC Pool delivers. It’s a place where fitness meets breathtaking scenery, offering a refreshing escape right in the heart of the city. TikTok

Navigating Crowds and Peak Times

As a popular Sydney attraction, the Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool can get quite busy, especially during the warmer months and on weekends. Redditors often advise visiting during off-peak hours to enjoy a more serene swimming experience. Weekday mornings and evenings are generally less crowded than midday or weekend afternoons. Reddit

If you're visiting during peak season, be prepared for a lively atmosphere. The pool's popularity means it's a great place to people-watch and soak up the vibrant Sydney vibe. However, if your priority is uninterrupted laps, strategizing your visit is key. Some users suggest that even during busy periods, the sheer size of the 50m pool can help distribute swimmers. Reddit

Consider checking the pool's schedule for any special events or swimming carnivals that might affect access or crowd levels. The official website is your best bet for the most current information on operating hours and potential closures. Reddit

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