Did you know that Lake Macquarie has its very own version of Newcastle’s Bogey Hole? The pristine rockpools at Catherine Hill Bay are stunning to visit, especially in the warmer months.
Given the crowd enjoying the rockpools on the day we visited, it’s clear Catherine Hill Bay’s rockpools are a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
While we respect that locals might prefer to keep it a secret, its location isn’t exactly unknown; even Lake Macquarie Council promotes it on their website.
Although this spot is beautiful, it’s also secluded and unpatrolled. So, before you go, remember to check the tides, stay safe, and either go as a group or let someone know your whereabouts.
For the safest and most enjoyable visit to Catherine Hill Bay rockpools, plan to go on a low to mid tide and a low ocean swell. Besides being safer, it also means calmer, clearer, and more peaceful waters for little ones to explore without big waves crashing in. It will also make for a happier, more relaxing adventure – especially with excited kids in tow!
Expect a 20 to 30-minute walk, one way. The track to the rockpools is rough, narrow, and overgrown in places, making it a bit of an adventure! If bushwalking isn’t your or your kids’ thing, or if you’ll need to carry little ones, you might want to save this trip for when they’re a bit older. Kids aged 8 and up should handle it without too much trouble, but they should be experienced hikers and confident in navigating their way over trails and rocks.
For this adventure, enclosed footwear is a must. You’ll be traversing dirt tracks, gravel roads, and eventually sharp, hard rocks as you approach the rockpools. Bare feet, Crocs and thongs won’t cut it! You’ll also want to pack swimwear and towels, sunscreen, snacks and plenty of water. You might also consider packing goggles or a mask and snorkel. I highly recommend a backpack to keep your hands free for navigating the bush and rocks. If you’re bringing little ones, a change of clothes is a good idea. There are no toilets, so ensure that everyone is toileted before you start walking.
The best place to park is at the Catherine Hill Bay Cemetery, located on Northwood Road. Head to the most northern part of the car park, near the cemetery gates. Here, you’ll spot the start of a bush track. Follow this track down to the northern end of Catherine Hill Bay Beach. Tip: You’ll know you’re on the right path if you pass some interesting old gravestones, including a unique “doggy” grave.
Continue walking north along the beach until you reach the Middle Camp Gully creek crossing, which is easy and fun to cross during low to mid-tide.
Cross the creek, turn left and head uphill towards the gravel road. Tip: You won’t be able to continue around the rocks from here, as an ocean inlet blocks the way, making it unsafe. Instead, you’ll need to climb up and around this section.
After a brief walk through the scrub, you’ll reach a wide, gravel access road within Wallarah National Park. Head uphill along this gravel road until you spot a well-worn ‘goat track’ veering off to the right. The view is beautiful here, so have a rest and take a moment to enjoy it, then follow the goat track carefully until you reach the rocks. Remember to keep checking on and assisting little ones.
Once you’ve reached the rocks veer to the left and keep following them around (approximately 400-500m) until you reach the rockpools.
You won’t be able to miss the rockpools! These amazing natural pools feel like a secret paradise, and your family will love exploring them. On a sunny day, you’ll likely find others already enjoying the crystal-clear water, which shimmers with stunning shades of blue and green.
After your hike, you’ll be ready for a refreshing dip! Take your time exploring the edges of the rockpools to find the safest spots to get in and out. The two bigger pools are perfect for a proper swim, while the kids will have a blast discovering the smaller ones. When it’s time to dry off and relax, you’ll definitely be glad you brought towels – the rocks are far from smooth or comfortable!
On a beautiful day, you could easily spend hours here, but remember the hike back to the car. Especially after a day in the sun, make sure the kids (and adults!) have enough energy left for the return journey. You’ll want to end your wonderful family experience on a high note, not with tired, grumpy little ones!
When it’s time to (reluctantly) leave this beautiful spot, simply retrace your steps back to the carpark.
We are incredibly fortunate to have access to such pristine natural spaces right on our doorstep. Please help keep them that way by taking all your rubbish with you to ensure that these beautiful rockpools remain a paradise for everyone to enjoy for years to come.
Good to know
Getting There: There is a carpark at Catherine Hill Bay Cemetery, located on Northwood Road, Catherine Hill Bay. Approximately 50-minutes drive from Newcastle.
Toilets: There are no amenities here, so make sure you use the toilet before you begin your hike.
Drinking Water: None. Fill up drink bottles before you head off.
Distance: Approximately 1-1.5km, one way.
Dogs: Leave the dogs at home for this adventure.
Bring: Plenty of drinking water and snacks. Swimwear, towels, sunscreen and hats. You might also consider packing goggles or a mask and snorkel, a backpack and a change of clothes. There are no bins, so make sure you take your rubbish with you when you leave.
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