Swimming in Sydney

Sydney has many heated Olympic-size swimming pools, some of which go beyond the basic requirements of a workout. Many Aussies, however, prefer to do their "laps" in the sea off Bondi and Manly.

Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool (Mrs. Macquarie's Rd., Domain North, The Domain. 02/9358-6686) isn't just any heated Olympic-size saltwater pool. Its stunning outdoor location overlooking the ships at Garden Island, its radical glass-and-steel design, and its chic terrace café above Woolloomooloo Bay make it an attraction unto itself. Admission is A$5.20 and it's open October-April, daily 6 AM-7 PM. Cook and Phillip Park Aquatic and Fitness Centre (College St., City Center. 02/9326-0444) includes wave, hydrotherapy, children's, and Olympic-size pools in a stunning, high-tech complex on the eastern edge of the city center near St. Mary's Cathedral. There's also a complete fitness center and classes. Admission is A$6 and it's open weekdays 6 AM-10 PM, weekends 7 AM-8 PM.