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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful swim
Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool Sydney
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful swim

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Swim with iconic Sydney Harbour views at the heated 50m Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool. A revitalized aquatic gem.
"The best 50m outdoor swimming pool with incredible harbour views!"
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

Post-Swim Refreshments
Cafe
Grab a coffee or a bite at the on-site cafe after your swim, with stunning harbour vistas.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Check Opening Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
📱 Check Official Website
For the latest opening hours and any event closures, always check the official ABC Pool website.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warm days, remember to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your swim.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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.
📱 Check Official Website
For the latest opening hours and any event closures, always check the official ABC Pool website.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warm days, remember to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your swim.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your phone to snap photos of the incredible harbour scenery.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
On-site parking is very limited. It's recommended to use public transport or explore nearby paid parking stations if you are driving.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Typically, public pools have a standard entry fee for all visitors. Concession rates may be available for students, seniors, or children.
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.
🎫 🏊♀️ 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.
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.
Absolutely! The 50m heated pool is perfect for lap swimming. Dedicated lanes are usually available.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located at the pool that serves a range of refreshments, from coffee and snacks to light meals.
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.
The cafe typically offers typical cafe fare like sandwiches, salads, pastries, coffee, and other beverages, perfect for a post-swim treat.
The pool is located in Woolloomooloo, which has several excellent restaurants and cafes nearby, offering a variety of cuisines.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, personal photography and videography are generally allowed. However, always be mindful of other swimmers and respect their privacy.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in public areas like this to ensure safety and privacy. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
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.
Commercial photography or videography usually requires special permission. For personal use, it's generally fine.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during quieter weekday mornings to maximize your lap time without interruption. The stunning surroundings can also provide extra motivation for your workout.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Refurbished Gem with a View
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.
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.
Navigating Crowds and Peak Times
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit