Nestled within Bouddi National Park on the Central Coast, Putty Beach offers a tranquil shore-entry snorkeling experience with calm, protected waters ideal for families. This peaceful, undeveloped stretch of sand sits at the eastern end of Killcare Beach, backed by coastal bushland rather than buildings. The grassy picnic area, BBQs, and clean toilets sit right beside the sand, making it effortless to gear up. Snorkelers can explore the rocky reef edges at the beach's ends, where small fish and occasional stingrays shelter among the seagrass beds. The Bouddi Coastal Walk starts here, and from May to November humpback whales are visible offshore from Gerrin Point Lookout, a short walk away.
Putty Beach
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Strong rip currents
Unpatrolled beach with occasional strong rip currents. Always check conditions before entering and swim with caution.
Moderate risk: No lifeguard patrol
Putty Beach is not patrolled by lifeguards. Swimmers and snorkelers are fully responsible for their own safety.
Moderate risk: Rip currents
Occasional strong rip currents can develop along the beach. The beach is not patrolled by lifeguards.
Low risk: Rock platforms
Interesting but potentially slippery rock platforms at the beach edges. Watch for sharp edges and slippery surfaces when exploring.
Low risk: Rocky reef edges
Submerged rocks and reef formations at the northern and southern ends of the beach can cause cuts or abrasion if waded over barefoot.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
4 photos from the community
Getting in
Approx 90 min drive north of Sydney. Take the M1 motorway toward Gosford, exit toward Woy Woy and Terrigal, then follow signs to Killcare and Putty Beach. The beach is inside Bouddi National Park at the eastern end of Killcare Beach.
Paid parking at $8 per vehicle per day (National Park entry fee). Payment on arrival at the park entrance. Limited free parking available further up near Killcare Beach.
$8 per vehicle per day park entry fee. Separate camping fees apply for the campground.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.