Sydney’s urban swimming game is on the up and up. This week alone, we’ve reported on the third season of Penrith’s beloved ‘Pondi’, and the re-opening of a Hunters Hill swimming spot that’s been closed to the public for more than 50 years. Now, we’ve got more good news to share – with Barangaroo’s Marrinawi Cove officially back in action. After a major upgrade, the inner-city oasis now features a larger swimming area, improved safety features, new showers and extra lounging space for sunny picnics by the harbour.
For the uninitiated, we should paint a picture of what has made Marrinawi Cove such a beloved swimming spot for Sydneysiders since it officially opened in early 2023. Sitting beneath the arch of the Harbour Bridge, the hidden little enclave is framed by sculpted sandstone slabs and native flora – it’s a peaceful little pocket of sun just steps from the CBD. The site also carries deep cultural significance – having been used by the Gadigal people for swimming, canoeing, and fishing for thousands of years.
RECOMMENDED READ: A Scandi-coded swimming spot is opening on the Bay Run in 2026
If you’ve been hitting up the popular swimming spot for a while, the upgrades will be impossible to miss. The swimming area has expanded by 150 square metres, with a swim length now stretching up to 45 metres. New sandstone stairs, a non-slip platform, handrails, and a ladder make getting in and out of the water easier than the slippery scramble of 2024, and a double outdoor shower ensures you can rinse off saltwater and get back to the office without a trace. For anyone looking to linger on land, there’s more space than ever to spread out a picnic rug and soak up the views of the harbour – in my opinion, it’s actually one of the best sunset spots in the city.
To celebrate its return, Marrinawi Cove is launching a summer events series running every weekend from Saturday, December 6 until March. Live musicians will serenade your swims, and pop-up stalls selling gelato and barista-made coffee will keep you in sweet treats.
Marrinawi Cove is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week* – ready and waiting for your sunny lunch break or your sunset swimmie. You can learn more over here.
*The cove will be closed on December 31 and January 1 for Sydney NYE celebrations.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.