Australia's ocean pools rank among world's top 20, according to new research
These stunning ocean bathing spots will make you never want to touch a chlorine pool again.
Seven of Australia's natural pools have ranked in the global top 20 best ocean pools, according to new research from AllClear.
The Bondi Icebergs and six other pools in New South Wales made the list, as well as a range of other stunning spots, with Spain's Canary Islands dominating.
Read on to find out where your next bathing spot might be.
20. Fairy Bowler Sea Pool, Sydney
Fairy Bowler Sea Pool in Manly kicks off the list. Located in Sydney's Northern Beaches, the pool is triangular shaped and located on the south side of Manly Beach.
This ocean tidal pool was built in 1929 by local residents and sculptures sit along the rock edge known as the 'Sea Nymphs' or 'Oceanides'.
19. Dee Why Rock Pool, Sydney
Also located in Sydney's Northern Beaches, the Dee Why rock pool is 50 metres long and located on the southern end of Dee Why Beach.
This large ocean lap pool offers many facilities, with a small toddlers pool at one end and disability accessible toilets and showers.
18. South End Rowing Club, California, USA
California's South End Rowing Club is not a tidal pool per se, but Aquatic Cove, where the club is located, is a narrow beach with a protected body of water than is ideal for swimming and rowing.
The cove also offers good views of Alcatraz and access to restaurants and activities.
17. Wylie's Baths, Sydney
Wylie's Baths are heritage-listed tidal pools stretching around 45 metres just south of Coogee Beach in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
Founded in 1907, the pools are open year-round and contain a natural rock bottom, attracting marine life including fish and octopi.
They're particularly popular with locals, containing change rooms and even health and wellbeing classes such as yoga and pilates.
16. Camps Bay Tidal Pool, Cape Town, South Africa
Camps Bay tidal pool is located on the southern side of Camps Bay beach in South Africa, not far from the centre of Cape Town.
The pool offers a spectacular view of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles. The sun also sets directly in front of the pool, making for fantastic evening views.
After taking a cold dip in the Atlantic waters, you can enjoy the restaurants and shops nearby.
15. Pozo de Las Calcosas, Canary Islands
Pozo de Las Calcosas is a small fishing village in Spain's Canary Islands known for its stunning ocean pools embedded in the volcanic stone coast.
Located on the island El Hierro, the water in the pools is generally cold due to the Atlantic Ocean, a pleasant antidote to the hot weather on the island.
14. Sea Point Pavillion Pool, Cape Town, South Africa
Sea Point Pavilion Pool is one of two South African/ Cape Town pools on this list.
Dating back to the 1950s, the complex consists of an Olympic-sized pool, springboard diving pool and two splash pools for children.
13. Newcastle Ocean Baths, Newcastle
The Newcastle Ocean Baths are located at the north end of Newcastle Beach in Australia.
They're over 100 years old and required significant maintenance before being reopened to the public in late 2023.
Set behind the 50 metre lap pool is a striking Art Deco pavilion from its original design.
12. Mereweather Ocean Baths, Newcastle
Two Newcastle ocean pools have made the top 20.
The Mereweather Ocean Baths are the largest ocean baths in the Southern Hemisphere, measuring 50 by 100 metres with ten roped lap lanes.
They're located north of the Mereweather Surf House, and are completely free to access by the public.
