CityQuokka
McIver’s Ladies Baths
This Coogee icon is Australia's only pool reserved for women and children

Written by John Wastnage and Pasha Tehrani

Sunday 2 February 2025

a woman swimming in emerald-coloured water at McIver's Ladies Baths in Coogee

McIver’s Ladies Baths in Coogee is Australia’s only women (and children)-only ocean pool. The pool is 32.9 metres long and is not far from another famous Coogee (unisex) ocean pool, Wylie's Baths. Access is down the steps from Grant Reserve at the top of the cliff. The pool was officially opened in 1886 after 10 years of building and improvement works, and had been used as a space reserved for women and children since the beginning of the colony.

McIver's offers a unique and serene setting for both casual swimmers and fitness enthusiasts. It has indoor and outdoor changing rooms with toilets, open showers and one enclosed shower (2 mins of hot shower costs 20c).

  • Best Features: Women-only pool, historic building, scenic ocean views
  • Opening Times:
    • Summer (Oct–Mar): 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
    • Winter (Apr–Sept): 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
      (Check the website for cleaning schedules)
  • Website: mciversladiesbaths.com.au
  • Instagram: @mciversladies