Bogey Hole

Public swimming pool · Newcastle

Bogey Hole

Public swimming pool · Newcastle

Shortland Esplanade, Newcastle NSW 2300, Australia

Highlights

Newcastle's Bogey Hole: a historic convict-carved rock pool with crisp ocean dips, stunning waves, and a local favorite just steps from the city.

Shortland Esplanade, Newcastle NSW 2300, Australia Get directions

visitnewcastle.com.au

@citynewcastle.au

@afar

"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."

Day and Overnight Trips from Sydney

View Postcard for Bogey Hole, Newcastle NSW

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!

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 :)

Mick Austin

Google

Nice saltwater pool, hand cut by convicts back in 1819, popular hidden swimming spot enjoyed by locals and tourists.

As M

Google

Place to visit in NSW with free of cost. Cooling down place during this hot summer. Enjoy the splash. Please take professional camera man. 🤣

Herve Liufai

Google

Nice rock pool for a quick dip and some sun bathing . Some 35 steps from the road . Parking some 50 mts away . Enjoy free

Staecy Hemson

Google

Had my first swim there on Australia day. I loved it! The waves weren't very big that day, but was still fun! Will be back.

Till S

Google

Very pretty! Lovely to go when it warm and you want to enjoy the ocean without all the sand! Clear water. The steps may pose an issue to some with less mobility, but other than that very good! Be careful when putting your clothes on the ground, put them higher so the waves don't wet them.

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.