The Best Pools in Melbourne
Beat the heat at some of Melbourne's most nostalgic pools, thermal escapes and hotel luxuries this summer.
Melbourne may not be a particularly beachy city (we'll let Sydney have this one), but the Victorian capital sure knows how to create the ultimate pool mood.
From sky-high hotel swims to neighbourhood outdoor gems and even private pool party rentals, these are Melbourne's best places to cool down, splash around, or sip something refreshing poolside this summer.
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Fitzroy Swimming Pool
A northside institution, the "Fitzy," as fondly nicknamed by locals, has been flooded with eager dippers for over 118 years. Steeped in history and retro touches, including a classic kiosk and bleachers for lounging and vibes (a visual paradise for film cam lovers), the main 50-metre heated pool invites serious swimmers to test their butterfly stroke, meanwhile a toddler pool remains family-friendly. It's little wonder Troye Sivan's now-iconic "Pool" fragrance from his concept brand Tsu Lange Yor was inspired by his carefree youth there.
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Jackalope
One of the most cinematic hotels and vineyards in Victoria, a trip down to the Mornington Peninsula isn't complete without a stay, stop or drop at Jackalope. But beyond the mythical hare statue, for which it is named, lies one of the most stunning hotel pools in the region. Looking out to the rolling hills of Rare Hare vineyard is a 30-metre infinity pool — a visual paradise, made even more beguiling with day passes over summer. Visitors can enjoy unlimited access to Jackalope's pool deck — yes, this includes the outdoor spa, infrared sauna and pool bar — as well as a private room to freshen up when you're ready to take off.
And if you want a true movie experience? Bask in the romance of Jackalope Cinema, returning for season two this March. Some of the best works on screen are projected across the ripples, with accompanying retro movie snacks to sensorially whisk you away.
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Brighton Baths
Okay, so this isn't technically a pool, but who needs technicalities when the vistas look this serene? Right on the beach and exuding vintage charm, the Brighton Baths Health Club have been summoning all-seasons swimmers since 1881. Hot or cold, members and visitors can take an "outdoor bath" in the enclosed saltwater pool — and even break a sweat in the beach-fronted steam room. There's also gym facilities and group fitness classes on the surrounding pier for sun-dappled exercise, as well as an adjoining restaurant and fish and chippy to satisfy your appetite post-swim.
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Hotel Sorrento
A sea-scape is always a good idea. When you're ready to escape the compounding chaos of city life, the sea-fronted Hotel Sorrento is the place to relax the mind, cool down the body. Featuring one of the best new rooftop pools, adorned with oversized monochrome parasols and poolside service, you could very well be spritzing and snacking in Southern Italy. After a five-year development, guests can enjoy the sun-soaked vibes of the adults-only openair terrace, which also includes a bar area and yoga deck for rooftop group classes.
Prahran Pool
The north-south divide becomes even clearer in summer with one's choice in public pool, and south-siders will say Prahran is the pinnacle. Hidden behind bustling Chapel Street, the Prahran Aquatic Centre sits in an oasis of its own — with a 50-metre outdoor pool set across eight lanes, a fenced-off toddlers pool, a timber deck, sun loungers, a spa and steam room, and a huge green space to tuck into a good book. Come to cool down, stay to people-watch.
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Marriott Hotel Docklands
You couldn't get a more Melbourne experience. Seeing the city in all aspects from the sky-high infinity pool at the Marriott Hotel Docklands. Perched high above the portside enclave, the 28-metre wet-edge, curved pool uniquely overlooks the harbour and city skyline, in a style befitting of Singapore's iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel. Begin your morning with a poolside coffee on the plush day beds and relish in the adjoining wellness facilities, or enjoy a sunset dip with glorious views. Treat yourself to a staycation or enjoy a $99 day pass.
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Brunswick Baths
Another northside favourite, Brunswick Baths lures those near and sometimes far to lap up the venue's 20-metre indoor and 50-metre outdoor pools. Behind the 1913-built frontage, there's also a play pool for kids, a spa, sauna, and steam room — as well as an expansive grassy area to enjoy a little R&R. Go for a dip, then grab a drink and pub feed just 'round the corner at the Retreat Hotel.
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Le Méridian
Indulge in unparalleled city views — and a signature steak sandwich — at Le Méridien's stunner rooftop pool. Usually reserved for guests, the East End hotel welcomes day visitors during the summer to soak up the Mediterranean vibes in the morning or evening with poolside snacks, including a complimentary drink and gelato. Come on a Friday or Saturday at sundown, and you'll feel a Soho House-like energy filled with DJs and glamorous people.
Swimply
Growing up, you were either the cool kid with a pool — or someone desperately trying to become friends with the pool kid. And today, big kids can get their pool sesh on without having to splash out on a sexy rental or take on a mortgage. Through Swimply, pool-farers can find and book a private pool near them, when it suits them. Anticipating a 35-degree day? Plan a pool party at a modern oasis. Can't bear another cold shower? Book an instant dip with the appropriate settings. Reservations include clear check-in instructions: the host might greet you upon arrival or just let you dive right in.
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Northcote Aquatic & Recreation Centre
There are plenty of reasons to jump in the Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre (adoringly dubbed "Narc" by residents) this summer. Unlike some of the more old-school venues, the Northcote local has got all the swish sensibilities in and around a modern setting following extensive upgrades in 2023. There's a 10-lane, 50-metre outdoor pool; an eight-lane, 25-metre indoor pool; water slides for the kids (and big kids); a sauna; and various fitness and wellness facilities. Sustainably designed with inclusivity in mind, Narc is also fit-for-purpose for all ages, and those living with disabilities or participating in rehabilitation programs.
Hannah St Hotel
Melbourne's newest designer hotel comes with a designer pool. Summoning a New York spirit, guests can soak in all the urban energy with Hannah St Hotel's sculptural lap pool, designed by Flack Studios. Set across 20 metres of black-and-white tiles, and framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, the foliage-lined space offers luminous city views, as well as a steam room, sauna and gym for wellness folk. Hungry? Head to one of the five new in-house restaurants after a quick dip, including the French-Italianate fusion, Coupette.
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Peninsula Hot Springs
If you like your dip with a hit of vitality, Peninsula Hot Springs is the place to sit back and sink in. Protect your peace as you work around the Fire and Ice circuit at the award-winning facility —there are mist-filled pathways, cold geo-thermal showers, and temperature-controlled benches — or simply idle away in a pool that feels comfortable for you. There are cold plunge pools for those extra hot days and those after a little mental clarity or muscle recovery; and geothermal springs to warm up when it's a little nippy, and reduce stress or improve circulation. Fringed with lush greenery, and accompanied by seasonal menus — local gelateria The Yard By The Bay has a temporary ice cream bar — it's a full-body detox with a dose of goodness.
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Alba Thermal Springs & Spa
World-class wellness just over an hour from Melbourne, Alba Thermal Springs & Spa could very well be the backdrop to one of those cult-like wellness films or shows. The effects and experience, however, are certainly on the calmer side, of things with the phone-free, meticulously manicured 15-hectare grounds playing host to 31 mineral-rich pools.
Dotted along a snake-like path, some are more secluded, others more lively and social — with everything from cold plunge pools to geothermal, botanical and forest pools and even revitalising rain pools. Upstairs, you'll find rooftop salt baths and private terrace pools. Soundtracked to ambient music, set among the Moonah woodland, served with Japanese-inspired plates at the on-site restaurant Thyme, you'll never want to leave. Good thing you can also stay overnight there now.
Prefer to swim somewhere with running water? Read our guides to the best rivers for swimming and best beaches in and around Melbourne.
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