McIver's Ladies Baths Sydney
A historic, women-only saltwater pool carved into Sydney's coastline, offering stunning ocean views and a serene escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
McIver's Ladies Baths Sydney
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, women-only saltwater pool carved into Sydney's coastline, offering stunning ocean views and a serene escape.
"A peaceful, women-only sanctuary with breathtaking ocean views, perfect for a refreshing dip."
💳 Card Preferred for Entry
Entry is usually a gold coin donation or around $2.50, with card payments preferred. :moneybag:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day of sunbathing. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ocean Pool
Coogee Beach
A historic saltwater pool carved into the rocks, offering stunning ocean views and a refreshing swim.
Sunbathing Terrace
Adjacent to the pool
Relax and soak up the sun on the dedicated terrace with panoramic views of Wedding Cake Island.
Marine Life Spotting
Rock pools
Discover fascinating marine creatures like Dolabrifera brazieri in the surrounding rock pools.
Planning Your Visit
Entry Fee & Payment
Exclusive Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💳 Card Preferred for Entry
Entry is usually a gold coin donation or around $2.50, with card payments preferred. :moneybag:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day of sunbathing. :sunwithface:
🥽 Explore Rock Pools
Check out the rock pools for a chance to spot interesting marine life.
🚶♀️ Safe Space for All
A welcoming and safe environment for women, including trans women. :womanhealthworker:
Coogee women's pool
Tips
from all over the internet
💳 Card Preferred for Entry
Entry is usually a gold coin donation or around $2.50, with card payments preferred. :moneybag:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day of sunbathing. :sunwithface:
🥽 Explore Rock Pools
Check out the rock pools for a chance to spot interesting marine life.
🚶♀️ Safe Space for All
A welcoming and safe environment for women, including trans women. :womanhealthworker:
💧 Rinse Off After Swim
There are shower facilities available to rinse off the saltwater. :shower:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about McIver's Ladies Baths for its stunning ocean views, historic charm, and exclusive women-only environment, offering a peaceful and safe swimming experience. Some note that parking can be difficult and that the facilities, while functional, are basic.
"It was probably less than 20 degrees when I was there and the pool was empty. I swam one round trip with freestyle and went to the reef to sunbathe.
The volunteers were very friendly.
I had a wonderful afternoon."
DANNING W
"Great spot for all females (+kids) .. natural bath/pool.. breathtaking views .. calm and relaxing place.. clean bathrooms/change room.. those lovely volunteers do such an amazing job maintaining the place and the bathrooms .. god bless..
don't forget your $2 .. ever since I was shown this spot .. it's become my favorite place to go to for some solo relaxation time.. some books available here to borrow if you forgot yours.. please maintain this spot clean for others to enjoy .."
Anaia a
"A gorgeous little place, very comforting to be surrounded by only women and to supporting a place with a long history. The pool itself is shallow in most places with two steps down to enter, one that goes to a deeper end and one to a shallow end, and there are rocks to tan on and rock pools to explore. Lots of wildlife around, including crabs, sea slugs and fish - they keep to themselves and are lovely to observe - just be mindful sea urchins are present. The steps can be a little slippery in places, so be mindful. They also let you borrow pool noodles and kick boards for free!
The entry is $2.50, there are toilets and 20cent hot showers. The volunteers are lovely and very considerate of their patrons: they ask for no littering, no nudity (shirtlessness is allowed) and strictly no photography or videoing. Only biological women were present when we visited, which was reassuring, and all the other guests were lovely. They have some merchandise you can buy as well - towels, swimming caps, wet bags and a book on the herstory of the site. Highly recommend!"
Rachael Hart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McIver's Ladies Baths is located in Coogee. You can reach it by bus from Sydney CBD, with several routes stopping near Coogee Beach. Driving is also an option, but parking can be challenging, especially during peak times.
Street parking is available in the Coogee area, but it can be limited and time-restricted. It's often easier to use public transport or consider ride-sharing services.
No, McIver's Ladies Baths is exclusively for women and children. Men can enjoy other ocean pools in the Coogee area.
The baths are generally open from sunrise to sunset, but it's always a good idea to check the Randwick City Council website for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding seasonal changes or maintenance.
While the main pool area is accessible, some parts of the surrounding rock formations might be uneven. Check with local authorities for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry is typically a gold coin donation or around $2.50. Card payments are preferred, but a donation bucket is usually provided if no attendant is present.
No, advance booking is not required. Entry is on a pay-as-you-go basis.
If there's no attendant at the gate, a donation bucket is typically left out for visitors to contribute.
While it's not entirely free, the entry fee is very nominal, often a gold coin donation, making it an affordable Sydney experience.
Opal cards are for public transport and cannot be used for entry to McIver's Ladies Baths. Payment is usually cash or card.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The baths offer changing rooms, showers, and a sunbathing terrace.
The baths are generally open from sunrise to sunset. Swimming after dark is not permitted for safety reasons.
Lifeguards are typically not stationed at McIver's Ladies Baths. Visitors swim at their own risk.
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and water.
Yes, it's a dedicated women's-only space, making it a safe and comfortable environment for solo female swimmers.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted, but always be mindful and respectful of other visitors' privacy.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer beautiful light and fewer crowds for photography. Sunrise shots over Wedding Cake Island are particularly stunning.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public areas and near beaches. Check local regulations before flying a drone.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of other individuals. Respect personal space and privacy.
You can capture stunning ocean views, the unique architecture of the baths, and the surrounding coastal scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The nearby Coogee Beach also offers more extensive sandy areas for building sandcastles. 🧘♀️ Solo Female Travelers
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ Visitors
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Historic Haven for Women
This historic site continues to be a cherished destination, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The saltwater pool is carved directly into the sandstone cliffs, providing a natural and invigorating swimming experience. The adjacent sunbathing terrace is perfect for unwinding, reading, or simply enjoying the panoramic ocean vistas. It’s a place where generations of women have come to swim, socialize, and connect with the sea.
Visitors often remark on the peaceful ambiance and the sense of community found at McIver's. It’s a place that champions female empowerment and provides a safe space for all women, including those exploring public nudity for the first time in a comfortable setting.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from the Community
Remember that McIver's is a women-only sanctuary. This exclusivity is a key feature, offering a sense of security and comfort for all visitors, including those who might be new to public swimming or public nudity.
For the best experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds.
Bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as the sun can be intense. Don't forget to explore the rock pools around the baths; they often reveal fascinating marine life, adding another layer of discovery to your visit. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit