Inner West swimmers, rejoice. Netted tidal baths are on the way, bringing calm, lake-style swims with serious Swiss vibes.
The NSW Government has confirmed a $3.8 million plan to build the Callan Park Tidal Baths beside the Bay Run at Lilyfield. A development application (DA) has been lodged and, once approved, construction is expected to take around six months, putting first dips on track for summer 2026–27.
Set on the grassy edge of Callan Point, the baths are being designed to blend into the foreshore rather than dominate it. If the current schedule holds, expect a scene that feels a little European in summer: early laps off the jetty, kids bobbing on the pontoon, cyclists rolling up for a dip and sunset swims that make the Bay Run as much about the water as the path.
What’s planned?
The Callan Park Tidal Baths are on their way to the Inner West. (Image: Inner West Council)
The concept pairs a calm, net-enclosed swimming area with an accessible pathway and ramp, a fixed jetty, pontoon and protective shark net. The idea is to create a family-friendly spot that ties neatly into the Bay Run so walkers and riders can cool off post-loop, while confident swimmers can launch from the pontoons.
“The iconic Bay Run and surrounding parklands are already a community hub for family fun, sport, relaxation and exercise, so adding a swim spot where people can cool off in summer will be the perfect addition to an already thriving public space," Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said.
Why this site stacks up
The tidal baths are set to make the Bay Run as much about the water as the path. (Image: Inner West Council)
The water quality has been monitored since 2018 and has proven suitable for splashing and swimming. A Human Health Risk Assessment commissioned by Inner West Council found pollutant concentrations in the proposed recreational area were below national recreational water guidelines, with no risk issues of concern identified for typical use.
The location was first earmarked in the Parramatta River Masterplan as part of a broader push to restore safe urban swimming along the river. Nearby sites such as Dawn Fraser Baths and Cabarita Park Beach have helped lead the way, with Callan Park now set to fill a long-standing gap for the Inner West.
Fast facts
Where: Callan Point, Waterfront Drive, Lilyfield
What you’ll get: Netted tidal baths, fixed jetty, pontoon, accessible ramp and pathway.
Timeline: Six-month build after DA approval, targeting summer 2026–27.
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
Discover vibrant culture and creativity, gorgeous nature spots and more in lively Newcastle.
Newcastle/Muloobinba has a lot going for it beyond its big skies and beautiful beaches. The city’s creative types are now heading downtown, taking over and transforming warehouses and terraces to offer a more alternative vibe. From its nightlife to secret swimming spots, art to architecture, here’s our insider’s guide to Newcastle in New South Wales.
1. Learn to sail on Newcastle Harbour
The harbour has always shaped Newcastle, so it seems like the most obvious place to start your weekend. Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club offers a range of programs that provide instruction for both novice and experienced sailors. This is an inspired classroom that sets off past the Honeysuckle Foreshore up the Hunter River, with views towards a seemingly infinite vista of blue stretching to the horizon. It’s the perfect way to savour your time by the sea. Other water activities include surfing, swimming in one of the secret ocean baths or whale-watching with CoastXP.
Join Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club’s programs. (Image: City of Newcastle)
The streets of Newcastle present like an outdoor art gallery, adding beauty to the everyday with large-scale works by artists such as Fintan Magee, Inari Meyers, Tom Henderson and Sophia Flegg. Hire a Flash E-bike and pedal around the streets to find treasures such as Bronte Naylor’s Mirror Ocean in Civic Square or Sky & Ocean at South Newcastle Beach Skate Park. You can also join Newy Tour Co.’s Discover Newcastle tourto explore city highlights, architectural gems and street art with an expert guide.
Admire stunning works of art displayed all around you. (Image: Destination NSW)
4. An artist’s view of Newcastle
There’s a real sense of optimism around Newcastle, stemming from its many grassroots art galleries and organisations. The city is home to an eclectic array of artists who gravitate toward different mediums; see their works on show at independent galleries such as The Lock-Up , which operated as a police station from 1861 until 1982, and Lighthouse Arts Newcastle in the light-filled cottages on Nobbys Head/Whibayganba. Stop by The Creator Incubator to see the Little and Big gallery spaces. Newcastle Art Gallery will soon reopen after a recent expansion, so keep an eye out.
The small bars confetti’d around Newcastle are a sign of the times. Visitors to the compact city will find a concentration of bars within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail. The after-dark experience, which includes theatre and live music, is designed for visitors who are in search of the offbeat and want to celebrate the city’s creativity.Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, the bars that dot most neighbourhoods will tempt you with everything from happy hour to their alt attitude.
Enjoy a night out at a lively bar. (Image: City of Newcastle)
6. Indulge in great gastronomy
Newcastle’s proximity to the Hunter Valley has helped establish it as a sophisticated getaway for gourmands with a passion for provenance. Dining options in the city are diverse, with everything from casual cafes to cantina-style Mexican eateries such as Antojitos, through to fine diners such as Flotilla and Jana Restaurant & Bar at QT Newcastle. Visit during Newcastle Food Month to get a snapshot of the local culinary scene – you can take note of the many world-class restaurants and cafes that warrant a return visit. Humbug, Peregrin and Bistro Penny should also be on your radar.
Savour a world-class dining experience at Flotilla. (Image: Flotilla)
7. Crystalbrook Kingsley
Crystalbrook Kingsley is another great example of Newcastle’s new wow factor.Staying at the hotel – in the heart of the cultural centre – makes exploring a breeze, with vintage bikes for guests who want to check out the city streets on two wheels. The design-savvy Crystalbrook Collection reimagined the Roundhouse building while adhering to its ethos of sustainable luxury. The hotel is also a magnet for foodies, with the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant and cocktail bar, Romberg’s, two of the best spots in the city for wining and dining.
Step into the reworked Roundhouse by Crystalbrook. (Image: Crystalbrook Kingsley)
8. Newcastle’s creative side on show
Save the date for New Annual, a festival of art, music and ideas from 26 September – 5 October.The program is jam-packed with 10 days of art, culture and creativity. This year’s festival will celebrate the power art has to connect people. Expect to see a diverse program including music, theatre, workshops, and performances in iconic Newcastle locations.Visitors will find a concentration of events within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail.
Celebrate migration, community and belonging at New Annual.
