Coalcliff Rock Pool
Coalcliff's Quaint Ocean Pool
Coalcliff Rock Pool is quite a cute little pool, only 27m in length, and I didn’t measure, but the internet tells me that it’s 1.5m deep. First established in the 1920s, this little ripper has stood the test of time. Featuring in our Best of Wollongong’s Ocean Pools list in 2024, Coalcliff Rock Pool includes a paddling pool for the kids, a shaded platform with seating, heaps of rocks to have a sunbathe, and toilets and outdoor shower close by. There is also a children’s playground right next door. You can access the pool directly from Paterson Rd via a path that gets a bit steeper towards the bottom, past the playground, followed by two sets of stairs. I was informed by my never-failing Dennis Duck that the water was 20 degrees Celsius.
Access to Coalcliff's Ocean Pool
I would say that this pool is difficult to access if you have mobility issues, yet in the time I was there most recently, there was a lady who had her baby in a pram in the shaded area, down the first set of stairs. I also met a lovely man named Dave who is recovering from a spinal injury and walks with a walking frame. Not an easy task for him to get to the level of the pool, but his determination is to be admired. I love that his friend helps him get in the water, and he still swims. Bloody legend!
How to get to Coalcliff Rock Pool
You can also get to Coalcliff Ocean Pool via The Coalcliff Surf Club on Bombora Way. There are a couple of parking spaces right next to the surf club, and more available further up the hill, adjacent to the undercover picnic tables. If you choose this route, there is a bit more walking involved. Head down the driveway to the beach and walk south along the sand. You have to cross where Stony Creek comes out, more challenging after some rain, and then do a little rock-hopping to get to the pool itself. I quite like scrambling over the rocks, but if you prefer the easier access, take the Paterson Rd entry.
What other ocean pools are near Coalcliff Rock Pool?
If you are looking to hit a few ocean pools up at a time, Coalcliff is a short drive south of Bulgo Pool, the Illawarra’s northernmost ocean pool. It’s also only a 4.8km drive south to get to Wombarra Rock Pool. If you do Coalcliff and Wombarra on the same day, you will really experience the large and the small of what the northern Illawarra’s ocean pools have to offer.
How big is Coalcliff Rock Pool?
25m in length by about 18m wide. Long enough to do a few laps without straining, or perfect just to cool off.
Also featuring a paddling pool that I guestimate to be about 6m x 7m x 5m x 4m. Will try and get a more accurate measurement next time I visit.
What is the water temperature at Coalcliff Rock Pool?
The water temperature was a very pleasant 20.1 degrees when I swam here in October 2023 according to my trusty Dianne Duck.
If you’d like to know the water temperature when you swim, you can purchase your own Dianne Duck here.
What I love about swimming at Coalcliff Rock Pool
I have swum at Coalcliff twice now, and I absolutely love how secluded it feels. On a warm weekday in October 2023 there were half a dozen people lazing on the rocks, soaking up the sun, and at the peak of business I think there were a grand total of three people in the water at once. I decided today I was going to make the most of the fabulous weather and get my saltwater fix. The forecast was for a hot 30 degree day so I pencilled in a swim. It didn’t go exactly as planned, but it turns out, what I got was probably just what I needed.
How much does it cost to swim at Coalcliff rock pool?
Free entry
When is Coalcliff pool open?
Open 24 hours a day, except for cleaning, check Wollongong Council for details
Are Lifeguards on duty at Coalcliff ocean pool?
No lifeguards on duty at pool, but Coalcliff Surf Life Saving Club is located a short distance to the north
Is there Car Parking near Coalcliff lap pool?
Street parking available on Paterson Rd with a short walk downhill to the pool. Alternate parking on Bombora Way with a longer walk along the beach and some scrambling across rocks to get to the pool. Not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Are there BBQ Facilities near Coalcliff saltwater pool?
Sheltered picnic tables available at the top of the hill on Bombora Way.
Is Coalcliff Rock Pool Wheelchair and Pram accessible?
Access is difficult for prams. Not wheelchair accessible.
What are the changeroom and shower facilities like at Coalcliff Rock Pool?
Cold showers are available poolside, adjacent to the toilet block just west of the pool and at Coalcliff Surf Club.
