Merwether Ocean Baths
Where are Merewether Ocean Baths?
Merewether Ocean Baths are located at the southern end of Merewether Beach, at the southern end of The Bathers Way, a scenic coastal track that takes in the best of Newy and her famous ocean pools. Can be accessed off Henderson Parade.
Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy
Why Merewether Ocean Baths are a great place to swim
There is something for everyone Merewether Ocean Baths. There is something slightly romantic about any of these pools that are still known as “baths”. You can’t help but feel a bit of the history about the place.
Merewether is known for it’s immense size, it’s so big that the “lap” part of the big pool is across ways rather than along the longest length, if you get what I mean.
The smaller pool, for the kids or recreational swimmers even though it is the smaller of the two, is also enormous. In Merewether, it’s all about size!
Did someone mention hot showers??
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Packing a camera is essential
Both Merewether Ocean Baths and Newcastle Ocean Baths are very similar in many ways. At the southern end are the white painted starters blocks that lend themselves to being photographed regularly. Similar to Newcastle Ocean Baths , but with 10 blocks instead of 6. Another similarity to Newcastle’s Ocean pool is the white, igloo-shaped pump house at the northern end.
Again, getting there at sunrise lends itself for the perfect light to get an amazing shot. If you feel like getting inspired, be sure to jump on Instagram and follow Steve and Ursula on their handles @stevefromnewy and @sunrise_newcastle. Make sure you also jump on Facebook and give Ashley a follow at Berry Sweet Photography. Thanks again to these awesome photographers for helping to show off Merewether Ocean Baths at her very best!
Find out more about the talented photographers who have kindly shared their Spectacular Photos of Newcastle’s Ocean Pools here.
Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy
How big are Newcastle Ocean Baths?
Merewether Ocean Baths consist of two pools. The larger, lap pool is a colossal 100m by 50m.
The kids pool is about 86m by 30m. These measurements are from Nicole Larkin’s ocean pool mapping project, The Wild Edge.
What is the water temperature like?
Haven’t been yet, but looking forward to taking Dorothy the duck to find out. I also feel like need to get a bigger duck…
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
What other ocean pools are near Merewether Ocean Baths?
Almost 6 kilometres north is the Soldiers Baths Rock Pool.
Merewether’s non-identical twin sister Newcastle Ocean Baths is 5kms to the north and then there is the Canoe Pool (kids pool), right next door.
4.2 kms to the north is the Bogey Hole, (halfway between Newy and Merewether ocean pools).
Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy
When is Merewether Sea Pool open?
Open 24 hours
How much does it cost to swim at Merewether Ocean Baths saltwater pool?
Free entry
Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy
Are there lifeguards on duty at MerewetherOcean Baths Pool?
Lifeguards on duty
29 April 2024 to 27 September 2024 – 8am to 4.30pm
Check the council website for updates
Is there car parking at Newcastle Ocean Baths?
Free car parking in the carpark off Henderson Parade.
Image courtesy of Stephanie
Are there BBQ Facilities at Merewether Ocean Baths?
No BBQ facilities at the pool but there are BBQs in nearby Dixon Park.
Is Newcastle Ocean Baths wheelchair and pram accessible?
Great access. A ramp from the carpark to the pool level. Ramps into both pools.
Which Newcastle ocean pool is the best?
I admit I haven’t been to any of them yet, and I’m sure the Merewether folks will claim theirs is better because it’s bigger, and I can’t wait to find out if this is true. Simon Duffin of NSW Ocean Pools rates Merewether as one of his favourites!
Images courtesy of Berry Sweet Photography
What are the changeroom and shower facilities like at Merewether Ocean Baths?
Hot water showers in the changerooms in the impressive looking clubhouse. Changerooms open from 5:30am daily.
Can I take my dog to Merewether Ocean Pool?
There’s no dogs allowed in the pool area.
Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy
Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy
Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy
Image courtesy of Berry Sweet Photography
