Back in early 2023, news broke that a safe swimming spot would be opening up in Barangaroo – allowing Sydneysiders to swim in the western corner of Sydney Harbour for the first time in 50 years. The opening of Marrinawi Cove sparked a lot of debate, and though there have been some doubts about the cleanliness of the CBD’s first harbour swimming spot (it’s best to avoid swimming here after heavy rain), overall, it’s been a hit. Back in the winter of 2024, we asked the Time Out Sydney audience to share the city’s best-kept secrets, and Marrinawi came out on top. Now, just as summer approaches, the NSW Government has confirmed they’ll be closing the beloved urban beach for more than two months to install some major upgrades. City workers will have to put lunchtime dips on hold for a few months, but it sounds like the payoff will be worth it.
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The upgrades have been designed by landscape architects Oculus, in response to community feedback from more than 500 visitors who called for better accessibility and more amenities on the site. When Marrinawi re-opens in December, it will feature a larger swimming area with a realigned shark net (and depth markets for safety), integrated sandstone steps down into the water and non-slip stairs. Sun-seekers can also look forward to a new decking platform with additional towel space through relocated sandstone blocks, and a new outdoor shower – with the revamped site designed for function as well as form.
“These upgrades are about responding to that popularity and making sure the space is safe, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone,” explained Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper.
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The improvements are part of a broader initiative to improve water access across Sydney, and according to the NSW Government, this project is fully funded by developer contributions. The NSW Government’s focus on improving access to free swimming spots across the city has also resulted in a $1.4 million glow-up to a section of Lake Parramatta, Penrith’s “Pondi” returning for two further seasons, and a family-friendly swimming spot on the banks of the Parramatta River in Ryde.
Work is set to start immediately, with Marrinawi Cove due to open again in December. You can learn more and keep track of progress here.
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