Swimming is a great form of exercise for the entire body, and is particularly beneficial for those with joint problems because water helps to buoy the body. However, if you’re in need of aquatic therapy, visiting one of Sydney’s local pools can quickly become an expensive proposition. Getting your own pool is often seen as an excellent way to reduce this cost, and can also add value to your home.

Fortunately, Sydney is home to a smorgasbord of beautiful pools. From humble rockpools hewn from beach headlands to high tech aquatic leisure parks, here are some of the best places to cool off this summer.

North Sydney Olympic Pool

This shady oasis is perfect for swimmers of all ages and abilities. Located in a park near the city centre, it has three lap pools and plenty of space for recreational swimming. You’ll find buttercup yellow sun umbrellas dotted around the pool, and it’s always at that perfect jump-right-in temperature. It’s a favourite with inner Sydney locals, and it even hosted the swimming events at the 1938 Empire Games.

Bronte Baths

Sitting at the end of the famous Bondi to Bronte coastal walk, this iconic bathing pool offers a slice of summer to anyone who visits. The water is fresh and clean, and you can spend your afternoon soaking up the rays on the rock platforms or floating alongside. If you’re feeling a little more competitive, this is where you’ll find the famous Bronte ocean pool carnivals, which include men’s and women’s club swimming, diving events and water polo matches.

Bondi Icebergs

The ultimate Sydney rockpool, this is where you’ll find the Bondi iceberg regulars – those hardened swimmers who train here to test the limits of their cold water endurance. The pool is a popular spot for families, but it’s also where you can see aspiring surfers pushing themselves against the mighty waves of Bondi. Tip: If you’re looking for a secluded swim, arrive before 10am to avoid the crowds.

Manly Beach Pool

Ideally located just east of the Manly Ferry terminal, this gorgeous sheltered pool is where you’ll find a little piece of paradise. With shallow depths and a gentle slope, it’s ideal for young children, and also makes for a great place to try your hand at some ocean-side snorkelling. It’s a good idea to check the tide and swell before heading to this beach, though – if it’s high tide, there can be no safe access to the ocean pool.

A 15’ x 15’ endless pool has been installed at the Sydney Health Center Rehabilitation Services to facilitate aquatic therapy for patients with mobility issues. A lift can be accessed from the hospital’s emergency entrance and takes patients down to the pool room, where they can enjoy the benefits of aquatic therapy without the hassle of travelling to the beaches. The pool will be available to both patients and members of the public from early 2018. More information can be found here.