"Newcastle's Respite from City Life Take the train less than two hours north of Sydney for a relaxing weekend in Newcastle, a town of historic pubs, welcoming cafes, and beautiful beaches. A visit to the oddly named Bogey Hole is a quintessential Newcastle experience, as you can swim in the rock pool on the ocean carved by the convicts that populated the area. Known also as the Commandant's Baths, it was constructed for the Commandant of Newcastle's personal use in 1820."
Wonderful views of a nice ocean pool rich in history. Would be nice if there was some signage to explain the history. Very steep stairs and platform for access to the water. Gets plenty of flushing from the ocean as any waves splash into it. Great for viewing sunset and whales/dolphins and seals at.
T N
Google
So much fun, definitely can be dangerous and you need to be careful. Probably best not to attempt when the tide is high. But good managed risky fun for sure. We loved it
Nicole Slee
Google
Natural rock pool, only accessible by stairs. There is not room for many people down there, but it's quite a stunning spot.
Teshan Karannagoda
Google
Beautiful place easy access. But day we went was not the best day for swim as too rough waves
A few parking spaces available and have street parking. Did not see toilet facilities around.
TheSkydivingAmy
Google
I always loved the Bogey Hole as a teen. Returning there with my son while on holiday brought back memories.
The little rock pools are an added adventure.
Having the stairs to access this swimming spot is great. But it's tricky to get a little person to and from via the parking in King Edward Park, so if you've got young kids with you, be ready to give piggy backs up and down!
Mick Austin
Google
Nice saltwater pool, hand cut by convicts back in 1819, popular hidden swimming spot enjoyed by locals and tourists.
Aniket Desai
Google
It was a nice Rock pool experience as it was a hot day. There is plenty of parking at the top and you need to walk down a small path and few stairs. You can also spot some dolphins out in the ocean from there. I could see a fish or two in the rock pool. You can see waves hitting the rocks which makes a spectacular view. Be safe and vigilant. It can be slippery at some spots on the rocks.
Jonas Kargren
Google
Must visit if you’re in Newcastle. Nice place, seemed a bit crowded but it was the weekend after Christmas. Amazing to be in the water with the spectacular waves coming in and being in a natural pool! Easy to get to from the main beach if you walk a bit :)
Carley P.
Yelp
Life must have been much better back in 1820! Convict labor is responsible for this beauty. Cut through King Edward park and take the stairs until you can't anymore, veering to the right. Be careful, it can get very slippery. The water is cool but refreshing. Go on a weekday to attempt to avoid the crowds. Stay alert, the ocean is unpredictable. For me, this was a must see spot in Newy.