At Stockton, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to a swim. You can swim at Stockton Beach or choose Stockton Pool. It’s a great alternative for those who prefer pools. Located an easy bike ride or a 20-minute walk from the ferry wharf, Stockton Pool is a fun place to swim. Compared to other pools, we noticed it had fewer people even on a hot day.
The pool consists of two pools, a solar heated 50 metre pool and a shallow learners pool.
Enjoy splashing around in the 50-metre pool. If you feel like doing laps, there are dedicated lanes to swim. Otherwise, splash around in the large free play area. Bring pool noodles and pool toys to have some fun.
Just note, that the shallow area of the pool only covers about 1/3 of the 50-metre pool so supervise kids or move to the learners pool.
For those with younger kids, spend some time in the shaded learners pool. It’s large enough to hold lots of families but shallow enough for little ones to feel safe.
There’s plenty of shaded seating area for parents to sit and watch kids.
There’s covered seating areas on both sides of the pool so pick a spot and get some shade between swimming.
If the kids get tired of being in the water, enjoy a game of volleyball or badminton. There is a net that is set up in the grassy area. Just bring your own sporting equipment.
Just in time for the summer swim season, there have been upgrades to the playground and barbecue area.
For young kids, there is a brand-new playground complete with play equipment featuring steps and small slides, plus a swing set.
Bring a picnic and enjoy some lunch or cook up some snags on the new barbecue area (located behind the playground). You can also order hot food and coffee at the kiosk.
Entry charges to the centre do apply, and seasonal passes are available for the more frequent visitors.
Good to Know
Address: Pitt Street, Stockton
Picnic Facilities: Yes
BBQ: Yes
Cost: $2 entry for adults and kids. Kids under 3 free.
The new swimming season begins on Saturday 27 September 2025 with cheaper entry for selected pools. City of Newcastle will launch a trial of reduced entry fees for all visitors at four of its five inland pools (Beresfield, Mayfield, Stockton and Wallsend pools) for the 2025/26 swimming season.
For more information, visit the Stockton Pool website.
Where are other places you can take your kids to splash around? How about Lambton Pool, Charlestown Pool, Wallsend Pool, Grannies’ Pool, Canoe Pool or Merewether Baths? Or check out our Best Beaches for Families guide.