Ocean Rock Pools Australia

Newcastle Ocean Baths

Image courtesy of Darren Carberry

Where are Newcastle Ocean Baths?

Newcastle Ocean Baths are located at the northern end of Newcastle Beach, right next to the Canoe Pool for the kiddies. 

Newcastle sea pool

Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy 

Why Newcastle Ocean Baths are a great place to swim

There is something for everyone Newcastle Ocean Baths. I love the visual appeal of this place. I have become obsessed with looking at beautiful pictures of the place. 

It has an art deco facade, historical buildings and facilities. A lap pool for the serious swimmers. A massive recreational pool for frolicking in. A cat walk to walk along, jump off and swim under. A concrete pad known as “the Butcher’s Block” for the kids to swim to and jump off. Massive tiered steps to sunbake on. Hot showers. 

Packing a camera is essential

The pool itself is a photographer’s dream. I am actually obsessed with looking at photos of her. Such an iconic appearance, with the boardwalk and the massive aqua coloured steps overlooking the starter’s blocks painted boldly with their numbers. 

Then there’s the pump house. This little igloo, just to the north of the pool draws me in. Mirrored reflections. So many different moods, depending on the tides and the weather. Do yourself a favour and get to this pool at sunrise. Epic is an understatement.

If you’d like to learn more about the awesome local photographers who have collaborated with us you can read about their Spectacular Photos of Newcastle Baths here.

Newcastle ocean baths pumphouse

Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy 

How big are Newcastle Ocean Baths?

The lap pool section is 50m in length, and consists of 6 lanes that are about 13m in width total. The lap pool is separated from the big, recreational pool by a wooden catwalk, that you can walk the length of. 

The big pool is 75m in length by about 45m wide. 

What is the water temperature like?

Haven’t been yet, but looking forward to taking Dorothy the duck to find out. I also feel like  need to get a bigger duck…

newcastle ocean baths water temperature

Image courtesy of  @sunrise_newcastle

What other ocean pools are near Newcastle Ocean Baths?

Just over a kilometre further north is the Soldiers Baths Rock Pool.

Head south and there is the Canoe Pool (kids pool), right next door.

Just under 2 kms south is the Bogey Hole, and it’s 5km in a southerly direction to Merewether Ocean Baths

When is Newcastle Sea Pool open?

Open 24 hours

How much does it cost to swim at Newcastle saltwater ocean pool?

Free entry

Newcastle tidal pool

Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy 

Are there lifeguards on duty at Newcastle Ocean Baths Pool?

Lifeguards on duty at Newcastle Ocean Baths from 9 April 2024 to 27 September 2024 – 8am to 4.30pm

Check the council website for updates.

Is there car parking at Newcastle Ocean Baths?

Free car parking in the  carpark off Shortland Esplanade as well as street parking.

Newcastle lap pool

Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy 

Are there BBQ Facilities at Newcastle Ocean Baths

No BBQ facilities, so if you need one, you had better pack your own.

Is Newcastle Ocean Baths wheelchair and pram accessible?

Great access. Ramps into both pools.

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 so beautiful about Newcastle Ocean Baths, that this one is top of my list!

Newcastle Ocean baths entrance

Image courstesy of Tracey*

What are the changeroom and shower facilities like at Newcastle Ocean Baths?

Hot water showers in the iconic changerooms. Changerooms open from 5:30am daily.

Can I take my dog to Newcastle Ocean Pool?

There’s no dogs allowed in the pool area.

newcastle ocean pool house

Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy 

Image courtesy of Stephanie

Image courtesy of Stephanie

Image courtesy of Stephanie

Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy 

Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy 

Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy 

Image courtesy of @stevefromnewy 

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