Australia is known for its beautiful beaches on the Pacific shores, but you don’t actually have to dip your toes in the ocean to enjoy its waters while in this country. Ocean baths are all the rage in New South Wales, and Newcastle happens to be home to some of the very best.
Ocean pools are extremely popular with tourists and locals in this Australian city, but not only because they look cool. At first glance, it may seem ridiculous to bathe in them when the ocean is just around the corner, but ocean baths are there to shield swimmers from strong ocean currents, large waves, and sharks.
Long story short, ocean baths allow people to enjoy the pleasures of the ocean without any dangers it has in store. The most popular one, Newcastle Ocean Baths, has been around since the 1920s, and it will win you over with its stunning ocean views and Art Deco pavilion. It’s closed on Wednesday for cleaning, but you can visit it any other day between 9 am and 5:30 pm.
Merewether Baths are also a huge hit with ocean pool lovers visiting Newcastle. Located on the other side of the city, in close proximity to Merewether Beach, this open-air swimming facility has been around since 1935 and it offers all the perks you’d want in an ocean bath.