Tidal rock pools are one of our favourite things to explore whenever we are in a coastal region, and the Barrington Coast presents some of our favourites in Australia. Whether you’re looking to wade around and spot some marine life or go for a swim in these uniquely beautiful waters, here are our four favourites.
1. NUMBER ONE BEACH: SEAL ROCKS
Rock pools are dotted all along this picturesque beach, and there is something for everyone no matter how high your appetite is for adventure. The southern end of the beach is our pick when the kids are around, with easy to access shallow pools that have a sandy bottom meaning no worries about sharp objects near little feet. At the northern end of the beach, adventure seekers will be at home with various pools that will require scaling of some sharp rocks to find. Once you get around the headland you’ll be rewarded with more secluded beaches dotted with beautiful rock pools.
Where to find it: Seal Rocks Rd, Seal Rocks NSW
2. BURGESS BEACH: FORSTER
This beach is home to various rocky formations which means a variety of different rock pools that come and go depending on the day's tides and conditions. Our favourites are at the northern end of the beach, where after the tide goes out you’ll find various small species of marine life that have not made it back out with the tides, but are happily swimming around in the rock pools. These shallows also make it a perfect spot for kids to have a splash around.
Where to find it: Burgess Rd, Forster NSW
3. TUNCURRY ROCK POOL: TUNCURRY
One of the most popular beaches on this coast due to its white sands and still blue waters, the ‘rock pool’ here is a bit different as it isn’t a natural rock pool, but rather a larger swimming area formed from the rock wall that has been built as a sand and wave trap. A perfect place for a swim, but one where you’re less likely to be spotting any marine life.
Where to find it: Rockpool Rd, Tuncurry NSW
4. DIAMOND BEACH: HALLIDAYS POINT
This beautiful beach is made up of several rocky outcrops across the ocean and is a fantastic place to explore at any time of the day. Given we’re here for the rock pools, head to the northern end of the beach where we think the best time to visit is at low tide, where you’ll find all sorts of interesting marine life.
Where to find it: Jubilee Pde, Hallidays Point NSW
