Experiencing Bondi Icebergs: A Sydney Icon

The saltwater, open-air pools of the Bondi Icebergs have long been an icon of Sydney life. Since the very beginning of the Bondi Beach culture, Bondi Icebergs has been woven into the tapestry of the beach and bay. 

The Bondi Icebergs Swim Club was established in 1929 by a group of local lifeguards looking for a way to stay fit during the winter months. What began as a small, dedicated group has grown into an internationally renowned winter swimming club, celebrated for its community spirit and tradition. One of its most unique aspects is the '15B Rule'—a membership requirement introduced in the 1940s, which mandates that aspiring Icebergs must swim 3 out of every 4 Sundays for five years to earn full membership.

The club's facilities have evolved over the years. In the 1970s, the original clubhouse was replaced by a more modern structure, and by 1985, Icebergs had expanded to include a junior winter swimming group, known as the Icecubes. In 1995, the club opened its doors to female members, now making up nearly half of the membership.

During the 1990s, the club faced possible demolition, but a successful campaign saved it, leading to a major redevelopment in 2002. This project introduced a new clubhouse, dining areas, and bars, transforming the site into a beloved social and cultural hub. Bondi Icebergs continues to be a resilient part of Sydney’s history—even after violent storms in 2016, when the club maintained its tradition of attendance, despite the weather. As of 2019, Bondi Icebergs proudly celebrated 90 years of community, camaraderie, and swimming through the chill of winter.

One of the most photographed and Instagrammed open-air pools in the world, the stunning blue-green Bondi Iceberg pools jut straight out into the sea. That means as the waves of the Bondi coast roll in, they crash over the side of the pool, giving swimmers a truly unique and exhilarating experience.

It is the 50-metre north-facing Olympic lap pool that sits directly alongside the ocean at Bondi, and it takes the brunt of the waves. The 25-metre northeast-facing pool is behind the larger pool and is a little more sheltered. The pools are overseen by lifeguards during opening hours, which is good news if the sea is choppy that day.

The pools are not heated, and you can expect to feel pretty chilly until you warm up with a swim. There’s a reason why the club is known as the Icebergs, after all! These outdoor pools are also filled with filtered salt water from the sea, and they are open all year round.

The best time to visit the pool depends on the type of experience you’re looking for. Want to cool off after a session of sunbathing? Then summer is the best time to take a dip. If you want the experience of swimming as the waves crash over you, planning your visit for the winter is a better idea.

The Body Spot is a poolside spa where you can relax while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves crashing along the shore. Both pools are open to the public, meaning you don’t have to be a member to swim there.

If swimming isn't your main focus, Bondi Icebergs still has plenty to offer. The club's gym is fully equipped, making it easy to squeeze in a workout before or after your swim.

And for those seeking relaxation, the sauna on the pool deck is the perfect way to warm up after a brisk dip in the pool. Visitors can also indulge in a rejuvenating session at The Body Spot spa, where treatments like massages and facials are enhanced by the soothing sounds of the waves in the background.

Bondi Icebergs is not just about fitness, though—it's also a social hotspot. The club hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from live music sessions on Sunday afternoons to members' nights, where everyone can enjoy discounted food and drinks. Seasonal events like the Christmas party and the much-loved ham raffles add a touch of fun and tradition to the club’s calendar.

There are plenty of places to refresh and refuel at Bondi Icebergs, including The Dining Room, The Pacific Dining Room, The Bar, and the Crabbe Hole Café.

Featuring stunning vistas of the beach and the pool, the Dining Room is a wonderful spot to enjoy both the views and some delicious food. The menu is primarily Italian with a modern twist, featuring seasonal ingredients and seafood. You can expect delights such as Warm Salad of Charcoal Grilled Octopus with peppers & goat curd, and Chris Bolton Reef Fish served natural with sorrel, lemon & olive oil. For dessert, there’s Whittaker’s chocolate mousse with Kootingal pecan & vanilla cream.

Then there is the Pacific Dining Room, which offers the same food and drinks as the main dining room but is open-air and located at the top of the building. The benefit of this is an unbroken and breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean while you eat.

Expect a combination of Italian luxe and some of the very best views across Bondi Bay. Seasonal cocktails and handcrafted delicacies abound in this stylish hangout spot.

A little more informal than the other eateries at Bondi Icebergs, the alfresco Crabbe Hole Café is poolside and serves snacks like avocado toast, cheese toasties, acai bowls, and smoothies. It's a great place to grab a warm coffee on a cold day.

The best time to visit Bondi Icebergs has to be in the winter. Yes, the pool temperature can drop to a brisk 16°C, compared to the 25°C it can reach in summer. However, the Icebergs' ethos is all about testing your mettle, pushing yourself, and staying in shape no matter how cold it gets, so the only time you can truly experience this is during the winter months!

You’ll need a towel, goggles, and a swim hat too, as it's saltwater. If you get stuck, they have merchandise—including swimsuits—available on-site.

While visiting Bondi Icebergs, you’re just steps away from some of Sydney’s most iconic attractions. Bondi Beach, with its golden sands and surf-ready waves, is the perfect place to relax or catch some sun.

For those seeking a scenic adventure, the famous Bondi to Coogee Walk offers stunning coastal views, cliffside paths, and hidden beaches, making it a must-do for nature lovers and photographers alike. Whether you want to explore the shoreline or simply enjoy the beach vibes, there’s plenty to see and do nearby.

By car: If you’re travelling from Sydney’s central business district, drive via the Cross City Tunnel (about 15 minutes) or Bondi Road (17-18 minutes). Parking around Bondi can be tricky, especially in the summer, but there are both private and public car parks available near Bondi Beach, including Bondi Beach Car Park and ParkDrive Car Park. Be mindful that spots fill up quickly, so arrive early or consider alternative transportation during peak times.

By public transport: Take the train to Bondi Junction, the nearest train station, and then catch the 380, 381, 382, or 333 bus to Bondi Beach. The Bondi Icebergs Club is just a short walk from the beach. It's recommended to use an Opal card for public transport, which you can prepay at major stations and convenience stores.

For more detailed information on navigating Sydney’s public transport system, check out this helpful guide on how to get around Sydney.