Rockpools of the Central Coast

ROCK POOLS

of the CENTRAL COAST

When you love the ocean, the joy of exploring rock pools defies age. Spying tiny crabs dart under rocks and discovering a galaxy of sea stars elicits squeals from beachcombers of every generation. Some of us have childhood memories of dipping into the cool water of The Entrance Ocean Baths, now renamed, while others recall cooling off in pools at the end of forest trails. This autumn, rediscover your favourites or try somewhere new with our guide to the Central Coast’s best rock pools, ocean baths and swimming holes.

WORDS JENNIFER ENNION

WOY WOY WATERFALL POOL

One of the region’s best-kept secrets, Woy Woy Waterfall Pool is out of the bag. Influencers have revealed this spectacular pool clinging to a wall partway down a waterfall. They’ve nicknamed it Infinity Pool because it’s like a hotel pool, but this one’s harder to reach. The walk there is around 6km (return), with the final leg not for the fainthearted.

‘The first three-quarters of the track is really easy,’ says photographer Mark Fitzsummons, ‘but the last bit is a goat track and can be quite dangerous.’

According to local author Peter Fisher (Tales from the Rainforest, 2021), the pool was a reservoir that supplied freshwater to Woy Woy railway tunnel workers in the 1880s. In the mid-1920s, the water was used to service steam trains to the Basalt Quarries, while it was also briefly a source for F C Nichols Abattoirs. Now, people seek the pool out to bathe in, but Fitzsummons says it’s narrow and there is a sharp drop-off to boulders. It’s best to leave this one to the adventurers.

You’ll find it… on Google Maps at the end of a fire trail in Brisbane Water National Park. Local’s tip: Avoid visiting after rain as the rocks are slippery.

Emerald Pool

EMERALD POOL

If you love a forest swim, it’s also worth checking out Emerald Pool in Popran National Park. Named for its colour, this swimming spot is reached via Hominy Creek walking track (5 km return; about 3 hours). It’s a Grade 4 bushwalk because it’s rough, with steps and steep hills but you’ll be rewarded.

You’ll find it… at Mangrove Mountain. Leave your car at Ironbark picnic area. Local’s tip: Keep an eye out for the green and golden bell frog.

AVOCA ROCK POOL

One of the best natural rock pools is the large one at Avoca Beach. The water is always sparkling, and not only do kids love climbing the boulders leading to the walkway, but it’s a fab spot from which to watch the surf.

You’ll find it… in front of the surf club. Local’s tip: Pack a picnic and make a morning of it. »

Avoca Rock Pool

MACMASTERS BEACH OCEAN POOL

Central Coast Drones’ owner Reed Plummer says this Macmasters pool is his favourite.

‘It’s an awesome place to visit when the surf is a bit bigger and you can watch the waves safely from the rock pool. On the calmer days, the surrounding rocks at low tide make a great opportunity to find interesting sea creatures such as starfish and octopus ...’

This humble pool blends into the surrounding rocks and national park backdrop.

You’ll find it… near Macs surf club. Local’s tip: Go mid-week so you have it to yourself.

SPOON BAY ROCK POOLS

Professional photographer Kevin Morgan has captured countless images of the Coast’s top waterholes but one stands out.

‘Spoon Bay would be my favourite for a swim and it is also a favourite photographic subject,’ Morgan says.

Locals are fans of the bay not only for swimming and spearfishing, but also for the several rock pools you can swim in.

You’ll find it… between Wamberal and Forresters beaches. Local’s tip: Go mid tide, so there is plenty of water in the pools. COPACABANA ROCK POOL

Copa’s reputation for a serious ocean swell can see it overlooked by non-surfers, but the rock pool at the northern end of the beach makes for a fun, family swim. The waves can get in there at high tide, so time your visit for mid or low tide when you can snorkel around the rocky edge. You’ll also often find driftwood on the shore for teepee building.

You’ll find it… near the northern headland. Local’s tip: ‘Take a snorkel or goggles; the underwater world is something that continues to amaze me,’ says Reed Plummer, of Central Coast Drones.

TERRIGAL OCEAN BATHS

This has to be one of the smallest ocean baths in the state, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in location. It’s a stroll from Terrigal Surf Club, next to the new boardwalk and opposite Crowne Plaza Terrigal Pacific, making it an ideal spot to cool down on a warm autumn day. The swell can jump the ledge, so keep a close eye on young kids.

You’ll find it… at the Terrigal end of the boardwalk. Local’s tip: There is no space to sprawl, so take minimal gear. »

Terrigal Ocean Baths

© CENTRAL COAST DRONES Macmasters Beach Ocean Pool

Spoon Bay Rock Pools

ELVIS, THE SALTWATER CROCODILE is a solo king after trying to eat three queens

As if having a name like ‘Elvis’ isn’t enough, the big saltwater crocodile at Australian Reptile Park is also known as the George Clooney of crocodiles. They’re almost the same age (Elvis is the younger, at 56 years), both are handsome devils with Elvis never having lost a limb or a tooth in a croc fight in his previous home in the waters of the Northern Territory.

It was while cruising around Darwin Harbour terrorising fishing boats that Elvis was captured and taken to a crocodile farm where he was match-mated with three potential queens. Sadly, he regarded each of them as tasty morsels rather than the future mother of his children, and is now destined for a lifetime of bachelorhood.

In 2007, he came to the Australian Reptile Park where he later gained international notoriety as ‘Australia’s Crankiest Crocodile’ after commandeering his keeper’s lawnmower one lunchtime and taking it for a swim.

Elvis continues to be very territorial and likes a game of croc and mouse with his keepers when they try to feed him, keeping them on high alert. There’s no such thing as training for a saltwater crocodile, just safety procedures.

Feeding time is his favourite part of the day – as it is for keepers and visitors – particularly so each year on Elvis’s birthday when his present is a quarter of a cow carcass. He greedily grabs his treat, performs the famous death roll, rolling over between 10 and 15 times to rip off a big bite-sized chunk.

Through it all, a love/hate relationship has developed between Elvis, the keepers and visitors: they love him, he hates them!

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GRANT MCBRIDE BATHS

Still often called The Entrance Ocean Baths, this is a busy spot with tourists over summer. However, in autumn there is more room for a leisurely dip. There are three pools – one for toddlers, another for free swimmers and a larger one for laps. There is also seating, toilets and showers, shade, and a lifeguard. If you’re keen to photograph the baths or other swimming spots, Reed Plummer recommends going at sunrise.

‘This gives you the best chance of capturing the natural colours and textures of the pools from above, whereas at sunset most pools on the Coast are shaded by cliffs…’

You’ll find it… down a cul-de-sac at the southern end of The Entrance Beach. Don’t drive all the way to the baths, though. Instead, park along Ocean Parade and follow the signposted lane. Local’s tip: The water is often chilly so wear a light wetsuit.

CABBAGE TREE BAY ROCK POOL

Sandwiched between a boat ramp and Norah Head Lighthouse, the rock pool at Cabbage Tree Bay manages to fly under the radar. You’ll still find families there, but it’s not as crowded as other tourist spots. There are toilets and showers, and, if you have time, a lovely beach walk to Norah Head Lighthouse.

You’ll find it… around the corner from Norah Head Boat Ramp. Local’s tip: If you have a keen snorkeller in the family, visit mid tide.

Cabbage Tree Bay Rock Pool Grant McBride Baths