Wylies
Baths is a 50-yard (45-metre) pool built into the rocks at the southern end of
Coogee Beach. Built in 1907 by Henry Alexander Wylie, a champion distance and
underwater swimmer, it was renovated 20 years ago. Wylies kept its traditional
character after the refurbishment, but gained hot showers, spacious decks and a
café.
The pool is alternately drained and
topped up by the tides, ensuring clean, clear water. There are fish too. Sadly,
a short time ago the long-term resident octopus died.
The
waves break over the pool at high tide. And when the surf is up, swimming can
be very challenging. It’s best to check the website, which is updated every
morning, about the temperature and condition of the water. You may get a
warning about stingers. There are lifeguards on duty.
The
café serves excellent coffee and the view of Coogee Bay from the deck is
gorgeous. The pool is open 365 days a year although on weekends it sometimes
closes early because of wedding parties. During the summer the pool is open 7am
to 7pm and in the winter 7am to 5pm. Entry is
$4.50 for adults and $2.00 for children and
pensioners. Remember a 20 cent coin for a hot shower. Parking
is available and the bus routes 313, 314, 353, 370, 372,
373 and 374 will take you
to Coogee.
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