Sawtell Rockpool

Sawtell, New South Wales

Tucked in at the back of a glorious headland, this pool offers tranquil swimming even when the on-shore winds are blowing and the surf next door is pumping. It is formed by a natural rock bar on three sides, with a lower section of concrete wall filling in the gaps and providing a window for viewing out towards the ocean beyond. Above: Sawtell Memorial Rock Pool from Bonville Headland (Order this image)

At 40 metres long and several metres deep at one end, the calm water in the pool is well suited to lap swimming. Just be careful not to touch the sides of the pool because of the oysters and some algal growth in parts. I could stand up at the shallow end, but needed to use the underwater ledge at the deeper end, with ladders available to get in and out.

The pool is officially named the "Sawtell Memorial Rock Pool", as shown on the advisory sign at the pool, but the council has also erected another sign right next to the first one, labelling the pool as the "Bonville Headland Rock Pool", so take your pick as to what you would like to call it. Above: The steps into the water at the shallower end of Sawtell Rockpool (Order this image)

In between laps, from the water you can watch the rock anglers trying their luck or the board riders taking on the swell. There are also a series of wide concrete decks out of the water for watching the activity in the pool and taking in the scenery beyond. Under the water there was very little aquatic life (almost no fish), apart from the growth on the side walls, with mostly bare rock and sand. The views of the jagged rock wall, every time you take a breath to the side, arguably make up for this and create a sense of security in the water in what feels like a secure, enclosed space. Above: Sun, surf and Sawtell Rockpool (Order this image)

The grassy headland behind the pool is one of the best ocean views around, providing an elevated view of the incoming sets of waves. Even if you are not coming for a swim, the views are worth the visit, with a paved path that runs around the headland. Here is a video of the Sawtell Rock Pool that includes the headland, some lap swimming, and what to expect under the water.

Before you head out, make sure to read the swimming safety information. Specific to this site, the managing authority advises that there is deep water, uneven ground, slippery surfaces, variable water depth, to beware of oysters, and that there is no lifeguard or lifesaving service. The marker indicates the approximate location of the pool. If the map is not zoomed in locally, as can sometimes occur when loading, simply click or tap on "View Larger Map" below.
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