Ocean Rock Pools Australia

Wattamolla Beach Rock Pool

Wattamolla Waterfall Pool

Wattamolla Beach Rock Pool is a spectacular spot located in the Royal National Park on the outskirts of Sydney. Featuring a famous beach where Coote Creek and Wattamolla Creek come together and then meet the ocean. Nestled under a five metre rock face which was a popular rock jumping spot before this was banned for safety reasons after several accidents.

This spot has something for everyone, swim directly under the rock face, or you can head upstream in the creek for a swim or a kayak, admire the waterfall after some rain, or head to the beach itself.

The calm waters in the Wattamolla Lagoon are perfect for families to explore. Enjoy swimming, snorkelling and bushwalking. A great spot for a picnic, the area features free barbeques. Make sure to bring all the food and drink you need for the day (including drinking water), as this spot is quite isolated. There are no shops close by, and almost no phone reception.  Yes, you read that right, no phone reception! 

Visiting Wattamolla Ocean Pool

I found this out the hard way when I visited Wattamolla when my kids were about 3 years old. As I was packing up for the day, I waded through the creek with my electronic car key in my pocket, rendering it useless. I had to borrow my friend’s car and drive for kilometres to get reception so I could call the NRMA and get them to help me get into and start my car. As this was happening a massive thunderstorm was rolling in and we managed to get the kids in the car just in time! The moral to the story is, don’t do something dumb, because there’s no phone reception, so it’s hard to get help. 

Remember this if you’re thinking of jumping off the rock into the lagoon…emergency services are a long way away.

Wattamolla Rock Pool

Wattamolla Beach rock pool gives you the best of both worlds, with saltwater at the beach, or refreshing fresh water in the rock pool. I love having both of these options in the same place. Getting sandy and salty at first, and then cleansing in the fresh water on the way back to the car. 

A great spot for tourists and locals alike, I would highly recommend heading out first thing in the morning, or waiting until Autumn, Winter or Spring to beat the crowds. The car park is often full to capacity on a hot Summer’s day. And, let’s be honest, if you want to enjoy this spot at it’s best, you don’t want to go when it’s over crowded.

Wattamolla Beach Falls

What is the water temperature like at Wattamolla?

Darlene the duck reports that the water temp is chilly!

How much does it cost to swim at Wattamolla pool?

Free entry to the water, but you have to pay a fee to park your car in the Royal National Park

When is Wattamolla pool open?

The Royal National Park is open daily from 7am-8:30pm

Are Lifeguards on duty at Wattamolla ocean pool?

There are NO lifeguards. There is no phone reception, so keep yourselves safe people!

Wattamolla Beach

Is there Car Parking near Wattamolla Beach?

Paid parking just 20m from the top of the rock platform. $12 per car per day.

Car parking is limited so make sure to come early or in the off-season.

Are there BBQ Facilities near Wattamolla saltwater pool?

BBQ facilities located adjacent to the carpark with sheltered picnic tables and chairs

Is Wattamolla Pool Wheelchair and Pram accessible?

No wheelchair access. You have to walk down the hill on a trail that can be slippery when wet.

You can take the kids, but I wouldn’t recommend taking a pram. 

Wattamolla-Beach-Rock-Pool

What are the changeroom and shower facilities at Wattamolla like?

No showers or changerooms, but there are flushable toilets!!

Can I take my dog to Wattamolla?

No dogs allowed in National Parks, so sorry Fido, you’ll have to sit this one out.

Free Entry

Open 24 hours

No lifeguards on duty

Carpark 200 metres from pool

Barbecue facilities avaliable

Toilets wheelchair accessible

Cold  showers

No pets allowed

best rock pools sydney
Scroll to Top