Newcastle Ocean Baths comprises three pools of ocean water along the Pacific Coast. The narrow stretch is for laps, while sun seekers can relax in the large rectangular swimming pool and youngsters can wade in the Canoe Pool. Enjoy the spectacular views of the coast and the impressive ocean baths pavilion.
Walk and exercise in these calm pools of saltwater. Relax by the side of the water to work on your tan. Take a dip to cool down on hot, sunny days. Notice how the waves break into the pool at high tide. The site includes changing rooms and other facilities.
Lay down a blanket on the grassy rise of the Ocean Baths Lookout Point, across the road from the pools. Wander along Shortland Esplanade and notice the excellent views of the ocean.
Admire the art deco pavilion building of the ocean baths, which is cream with touches of turquoise. It lights up at night, generating an electrifying ambiance against the dark ocean. It is often used as an open-air studio for amateur photographers.
Bring your toddlers to the large, circular Canoe Pool beside the main structure. It is usually unsupervised, but very shallow. Clamber over the rocks to the adjacent Newcastle Beach and relax on the sandy shore.
Note that the site is free to use and remains open at all times aside from a weekly clean at low tide. Lifeguards watch over the pools year-round from morning until late afternoon. They stay a little later in the day in summer, which is from the end of September to the end of April.
Newcastle Ocean Baths is on the southern part of the peninsula of Newcastle East on the city’s eastern flank. Take a bus to one of the stops approaching the coast. You can also drive and leave your car in a designated space in front of the pavilion. Visit nearby attractions, such as Fort Scratchley, Nobbys Beach and Foreshore Park.
