When you think about Sydney and its famous Bondi Beach, there is often one image that comes to mind: the famous Bondi Icebergs Pool. Indeed, there are probably no other pools in the world that are as photographed as this one. There are plenty of gorgeous beaches and open rock pools in Sydney but nothing more iconic than this one. If you fancy a swim, make sure to learn more about the Bondi Icebergs Pool and what makes it so famous!
History of Bondi Icebergs Pool
The Bondi Icebergs Pool started out in 1929. There was a winter swimming club known as The Icebergs Swimming Club that was established by local lifeguards in Sydney. These lifeguards established this organization and decided that they had to look for a place to go swimming and maintain their fitness even during the winter months. To this day, this club is known as the largest of its kind and the only one with a license!
Before you can be a member of the club, you need to compete in three (out of four) Sundays every month in the next five years. It is said that this rule to become a member still exists until today. The members of the club started out in a small tin shed until they had their first major upgrade in the 1960s. The year 1955 also marked a historic development because it was the first time that the club welcomed female members.
In 2002, the club had its first modern development and they decided to move into the pool that is now known today – the Bondi Icebergs Pool. This is also how the iconic pool derived its name – as it was inspired by the club of lifeguards that dedicated themselves to their craft.
Today, the Bondi Icebergs Pool is open to the public throughout the year. The cost of entry is $8 for adults and $5.50 for children below 12 (and seniors). But if you want to obtain a swim pass, the cost is $170 for adults or $115 for children and seniors.
Location of the Pool
The Bondi Beach pool is located at the southern end of Bondi Beach. This is also home to the Bondi Icebergs Club that exists until today.
This pool has become a tourist and historic landmark in Bondi Beach for more than a century. It is open daily except for Thursdays wherein there is a scheduled cleaning maintenance for the pool. The weekday hours are 6AM to 7PM and 6:30AM to 6:30PM on weekends.
Features of the Pool
Even if you haven’t swam it yet, you might already be familiar with Bondi Icebergs Pool (after all, this pool is famous on Instagram!). This actually consists of two types of pools: the main pool is the one looking north and there is a kiddie pool looking towards the northeast. There are lifeguards on duty during the operating hours of the pool.
This Bondi Beach Pool offers a few other features and amenities that you can enjoy. The pool decks near the pool have just completed its renovation work. You can find a sauna nearby that you can use whenever you want to. The sauna is located on the pool deck level. It is open until 6:20PM and entry is included in your pool admission. There are also many food and drink options nearby if you want to grab a bite or drink before or after your swim.
The Crabbe Hole Café is one of the poolside restaurants in Bondi Icebergs Pool. Aside from the unbeatable views, they also serve delicious coffee and tasty gourmet treats. You can enjoy your food and drinks while relishing the view of the pool and the ocean. This al fresco café was once known as an insider’s secret but it is quickly gaining popularity.
Another establishment located beside the pool is The Body Spot at Bondi Beach. This business provides a wide range of spa and massage treatments for those who want to relax after a leisurely swim. You can enjoy the sound of the rhythmic waves while enjoying a blissful spa treatment. If you are a club member, you can enjoy 10% off all massage and spa treatments on the establishment.
This massive saltwater pool is made even more iconic by the splashing of the waves from the nearby ocean. In fact, this is how the pool is filled with seawater. As you swim, you might even feel the wave hit you as you come up for air. This is part of the appeal of the iconic pool and is also responsible for its gorgeous blue-green hue.
The fees you pay to swim at the pool are already inclusive of the use of change room facilities, hot showers and sauna.
Unique Facts
Bondi Icebergs can be very busy and that speaks to its popularity. Since it is open all year round, you can expect that there will be a crowd anytime you choose to go. If you are interested to visit this Sydney icon, below are a few more interesting facts that you need to know:
- Before it was known as the Bondi Icebergs Pool, it was known as the Bondi Baths.
- The Adult swimming pool is 50 meters long. The kids’ pool is shorter at 25 meters long and is also much shallower. Adults can also swim at the kids’ pool.
- The pool is not heated. Since the pool is open all year round, those who wish to swim in the winter months must endure the cold weather since the water is not heated. In fact, the water is taken directly from the ocean.
- There are strict codes and regulations about the use of appropriate swimwear when you wish to swim the Bondi Icebergs. Make sure to learn about these rules and abide accordingly.
- There is a small museum on the first floor of the club. You can visit it if you want to learn about the history of the club and its establishment.
- Aside from the pool, there are a variety of casual and bistro style dining options available. All club members enjoy exclusive discounts on food and beverages.
- The famous Bondi Iceberg Club in Sydney is the only licensed winter swimming club in the world.
You may also enjoy more: Bondi Beach Facts
