Newcastle Bogey Hole
Image courtesy of Berry Sweet Photography
Where is Newcastle Bogey Hole?
Newcastle Bogey Hole is located on the rock shelf between the southern end of Newcastle Beach and north of Susan Gilmore Beach. Just below the area known as Shepherds Hill. Not to be confused with Bronte Bogey Hole in Sydney, or Mollymook Bogey Hole on the South Coast.
Image courtesy of Berry Sweet Photography
Why Newcastle Bogey Hole is a great place to swim
There is something special about the Newcastle Bogey Hole. Pools like this with their natural looking rocky bottoms, edge right on the ocean and the waves lapping over the edge at high tide sing to my soul.
A platform to dive off, an edge to walk along or gaze out into the open ocean from, I can’t wait to jump into this sea pool.
The fact that this place is so beautiful, and feels secluded under the cliff face reminds me a little of McIver’s Ladies Baths in Coogee.
Packing a snorkel is essential
As with any of these tidal pools, the water coming in on a high tide can bring various types of sea life with it. No doubt home to a resident octopus over time, you never know what you might find!
Don't forget your camera
The pool itself, its classic chain link fence and it’s location are a photographer’s dream. Be sure to try and catch it with that morning light and still mirror-like conditions if you can!
I am so grateful to Berry Sweet Photography and @sunrise_newcastle for helping me show it off at it’s beautiful best.
Find out more about these talented photographers and others who have collaborated on our Spectacular Photos of Newcastle Ocean Baths here.
Newcastle Bogey Hole is the oldest man-made ocean pool in Australia
In the 1820’s the pool was only the size of a bathtub ( 4.5m long by 2.1m wide and 1.8m deep), an olden day plunge pool, if you will. Built by convicts for the Commendant of Newcastle, Major Jones Morriset. Because of this, the pool was originally known as The Commendant’s Baths.
In 1884, the baths were enlarged by about seven times the original, to what we know today. Also known for a time as Accomondence Baths, this was most likely a mispronunciation of the original name. Over time it became known as The Bogey Hole, with the word bogey coming from traditional Dharawal language meaning “to swim or bathe”.
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
How big is the Bogey Hole?
The modern day version of the Newcastle Bogey hole is about 28m in length by 10m across according to the mapping of Nicole Larkin and her ocean pool mapping project, The Wild Edge.
The internet tells me it is about 1.5m in depth. Looking forward to confirming this when I get there in the flesh.
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
What is the water temperature like?
Haven’t been here yet, but looking forward to taking Dimi the duck to find out.
Beware a high tide and a big swell
The only disadvantage to this beautiful infinity pool, is the way the waves can crash into the pool, sometimes making it dangerous and unswimmable.
If the swell is up and there’s a high tide, check conditions before entering the pool. Sometimes a few waves breaking into the pool can make for a little spicy fun, but make sure it’s safe first.
What other ocean pools are near Newcastle Bogey Hole?
The Bogey Hole is right in the middle of the two main ocean pools in the region, Newcastle Ocean Baths and Merewether Baths.
Just over a 2.2 kms drive to the north is the Soldiers Baths Rock Pool.
Even though it is closer as the crow flies, it’s a short 8 minute drive north to take you the 2.7kms to Newcastle Ocean Baths. Right next door to that is the Canoe Pool.
An 8 minute, 4.2 km drive in a southerly direction will have you at Merewether Ocean baths.
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Are there lifeguards on duty at Newcastle Bogey Hole Pool?
No lifeguards on duty at Newcastle Bogey Hole.
Is there car parking at Newcastle Bogey Hole?
Free street car parking in Shortland Esplanade or York Road.
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Are there BBQ Facilities at Newcastle Bogey Hole?
BBQ facilities at nearby King Edward Park.
Is Newcastle Bogey Hole Rock Pool wheelchair and pram accessible?
A big set of stairs down to the Bogey Hole, so no good for people with compromised mobility.
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
How much does it cost to swim at Newcastle saltwater ocean pool?
Free entry
When is Newcastle Bogey Hole ocean pool open?
Open 24 hours
Which Newcastle ocean pool is the best?
I admit I haven’t been to any of them yet, and I’m sure the Merewether folks will claim theirs is better because it’s bigger, but there is something calling to me from The Newcastle Bogey Hole, that this one is top of my list!
What are the changeroom and shower facilities like at Newcastle Bogey Hole?
Changerooms at Newcastle Beach and toilets at nearby King Edward Park.
Can I take my dog to Newcastle Bogey Hole ?
There’s no dogs allowed in the pool area.
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
Image courtesy of @sunrise_newcastle
