Yamba's ocean pool is a 33 m rectangular pool cut into the rocks at the southern end of Yamba Main Beach, with a wading pool for small children. Built in 1969, it is one of the last ocean pools made in Australia and is free to use.
Key facts
- Type
- Ocean pool or baths
- Length
- 33 m
- Facilities and access
- Southern end of Main Beach
- Cost
- Free
- Lifeguards
- Not at the pool; Main Beach patrolled in season
- Parking
- Car park at Main Beach
- Best time to go
- Mornings, calm day at mid tide
- Water quality
- GoodMain Beach (Yamba), 0.1 km away. Sampled 9 Mar. Source: NSW Beachwatch.
- Town
- Yamba, NSW
What it's like
The pool sits at the foot of the headland below the lighthouse, at the end of Yamba's main surf beach. At 33 m it is good for laps, and the adjoining wading pool suits toddlers. Waves spill in over the seaward wall at high tide, keeping the water fresh.
Maclean Shire Council built it in 1969, making it the most northerly and one of the newest of the classic east coast ocean pools. Yamba now has an inground Olympic pool for competition, but the ocean pool remains the town's favourite place for a casual swim.
When to go
Morning swims are a local habit, and a calm day at mid tide gives the best water. School holidays bring crowds, as Yamba is a busy holiday town.
Getting there and facilities
The pool is at the southern end of Main Beach, below Yamba surf club. There is a car park, public toilets, showers and a picnic area, with a cafe right by the beach. Yamba town centre is a short walk up the hill.
Good to know
There are no lifeguards at the pool itself; Main Beach is patrolled in season.