There's an age-old debate about the superior swimming area; beaches or pools. We aren't going to claim that we've found the answer because we truly don't believe there's an answer to be found. Instead, the team at Bondi Joe Swimwear wants to take you through some pros and cons of each venue to help you decide what suits you best. Let's get into it!
Pool Pros
- When you have a pool, you can ensure that the water is clean and clear with the help of chlorine and other chemicals. This makes it more sanitary to swim in, and you know that there are no bacteria that are bad for you.
- Pools are more convenient because you can leave your deck furniture out. Your house is a few feet away so you can run inside for a drink or lunch and you don't have to worry about packing.
- Pools are safer for swimming because there are no currents or waves. The ocean can be calm, but some days it's dangerous. Pools don't have rip currents or large waves to knock you over. They're also usually no deeper than 6 feet, but many shallower options are available if you have smaller children.
- There are no rules to follow unless you make them! If you want to enjoy an adult beverage by your pool, you absolutely can! You can come and go as you please at any time and you don't have to worry about leaving anything behind. Your dog can join you in the pool if you so desire because no one can tell you pets aren't allowed! You don't even have to pay for/worry about parking!
- Pools are warmer than the ocean because the water is pretty stationary and there's a finite amount of it. If you add a heater or a thermal cover, your pool can get to well over 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Beach Pros
- The view is immaculate! There's a reason beachfront properties are so sought-after; the view! Is there anything more relaxing than the sights and sound of the ocean? We have to say "no!" If you're looking for relaxation, the beach is the way to go.
- You get more space to move around and play games! Many beaches allow you to bring things like cornhole, bocce, volleyball, and of course beach balls! It's great for a change of scenery, especially for little ones!
- Fresh ocean breeze does a body good. It also keeps you a bit cooler on very hot days. The wind off the water is fresh and refreshing, making it perfect for a stress-relieving day.
- Beach sand is a natural exfoliant! The next time you take a barefoot stroll along the water, check out your feet after. The fine grains gently buff away calluses and dead skin, leaving you with refreshed feet!
- While some people like the chemicals in pools, others find them irritating. Luckily for you, the ocean is all-natural! Saltwater is more sanitary than you may think. For those with sensitive skin, hopping into the waves is likely more gentle than chlorine.
- There are activities that you can't do anywhere else! You can't exactly boogie board or surf in a pool now, can you? If you love water sports and activities, the beach is your best friend! You can go boating, fishing, surfing, tubing, and more. With so much to do, you'll have hours of fun!
Pool Cons
- There's limited space. Pools can only be as large as the property allows, so you'll eventually run into the edge. You also have less space outside of the water, especially if you have a deck. This can be problematic if you want to host large pool parties or if you have kids that like to splash. When you have a small deck, everyone is in the splash zone!
- They require a lot of upkeep. If you are the owner of the pool, you'll quickly realize that they need a lot of attention to keep them clean and clear. You may think it's as simple as pouring in a few chemicals, but a lot of factors come into play. You could go through the same process this year as you did last year and end up with a cloudy and green pool!
- Pools can be dangerous with little kids. Anytime you have a pool on your property you run the risk of having a tragic accident. It's crucial to fence in your pools to keep pets and children safe. Never let kids swim without supervision, and make sure everyone knows how to swim.
- It's not a getaway. Don't get us wrong, we have no problems with pools! We think they're wonderfully convenient and great for an impromptu swim. That being said, sitting out by your pool is not the same as relaxing on the beach. There's no change in scenery, no ocean breeze, and not nearly as much relaxation.
- They're expensive. If you want a hardcore pool, you should expect to pay a pretty penny. Inground pools are the most expensive because they require the construction of the property, but even above-ground pools can cost more than you think. Keep in mind that you get what you pay for, so if you plan to use the pool a lot, invest in a nice one!
Beach Cons
- There will be sand everywhere. Beach sand is wonderful. We love to sculpt with it, play in it, and walk in it. What we don't love is trying to get it off when it's time to leave! No matter how hard you try, there will always be sand in your hair, between your toes, in your clothes, and all over your car. While we think a day at the beach is worth the struggle, others wholeheartedly disagree.
- The water is dirty. When you go into the ocean, you really have no idea what you're stepping into. Australia is lucky to have some of the most pristine beaches in the world, but other countries are not so lucky. There's sadly a lot of pollution plaguing or oceans, and you may find some on your beach day. There's also algae and sea life to consider. Some people don't like the idea of sharing with fish, so the ocean won't be ideal for them.
- The beach can be dangerous, even for experienced swimmers. The ocean is one of the most powerful things on the planet. It's beautiful when calm, but scary when it's in full swing. Rip currents, changing tides, strong waves, and dangerous sea creatures all threaten beachgoers on a daily basis. Luckily, if you stay relatively close to shore, you should be able to avoid most of these problems. Always be extra cautious if you have children with you.
- You have to pack a lot of stuff. Carting your gear to the beach is often a multi-trip process. You need chairs, umbrellas, coolers, blankets, towels, bags, and more! Unlike a pool, you don't have the luxury of walking 10 feet into your kitchen to get what you need. You have to have everything planned out and packed beforehand, otherwise, you'll have to go without! Don't forget the sunscreen or you'll burn and be miserable for days!
Whether you prefer the beach or the pool, you'll enjoy it even more in a pair of Bondi Joe Swim Trunks! Our designer men's swimwear is liner-free for all-day comfort, and you can wear them from the beach or pool to the bar or restaurant. Remember: you don't have to choose between beaches and pools - just go to both! Each has its own positives and negatives, and we hoped we've helped you see them a bit more clearly.