Summer Swimming in Sydney

Marrinawi Cove, a free public swimming spot near Sydney Harbour Bridge, has reopened bigger and better than before, with an additional 150 square metres of space to swim.  

Since January 2023, when Marrinawi Cove first opened for swimming with a temporary enclosure and small interventions designed by OCULUS, the space has been embraced by the community.   

As well as a larger swimming area, new works – designed in collaboration with SMC Marine and AW Maritime – include a double outdoor shower, depth marker, decking platform, non-slip stairs, and integrated sandstone stairs, plus additional green space for towels. 

Infrastructure NSW Head of Projects Bruno Zinghini said "the upgrades were developed in partnership with landscape architects OCULUS and shaped by two years of community feedback. We’ve worked closely with the community to design improvements that enhance the visitor experience while preserving the unique character of Marrinawi Cove.” 

Marrinawi is a Sydney Aboriginal word for large canoe, which was also used to describe the vessels of the European First Fleet in Sydney Harbour. For thousands of years, the Gadigal used this area for swimming, bathing, canoeing and fishing. 

A weekend program of live acoustic music and pop-up snack stands will run throughout summer – plan your visit.