Red Rock Headland Pools are natural tidal rock pools carved into the volcanic headland that juts into the Pacific Ocean at the northern end of the Coffs Coast. Formed by millennia of wave action against ancient rock, these sheltered pools offer calm, crystal-clear waters that warm up in the shallows, making them ideal for spotting small reef fish, crabs, and starfish. The headland provides dramatic views up and down the coastline, while the adjacent Corindi River inlet and Yuragir National Park create a wild, unspoiled backdrop. Access is via a short walk from the Red Rock village beach, and the pools are best visited at low tide when they are fully exposed.
Red Rock Headland Pools
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Wave Height 0.4 mSwell Period 6.2 sWind Speed 0.5 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Incoming tide
At high tide the pools can be submerged by the ocean swell, making the area unsafe for swimming or snorkeling.
Moderate risk: Swell surge
During southerly swells, waves can wash unexpectedly over the headland pools, creating hazardous conditions.
Low risk: Slippery rocks
The volcanic rock surrounding the pools can be extremely slippery when wet, especially after rain or at the water's edge.
Low risk: Sharp rocks and barnacles
Exposed barnacles and sharp edges on the rock platform can cause cuts and abrasions. Reef shoes are strongly recommended.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Red Rock is located approximately 30 km north of Coffs Harbour on the NSW North Coast. From the Pacific Highway, take the Corindi Beach / Red Rock exit and follow Red Rock Road to the village. Park at the beach carpark near the Corindi River mouth and walk north along the beach to the headland rock pools, accessible at low tide.
Parking & facilities
Free parking is available at the Red Rock Beach carpark off Red Rock Road, near the surf club and Corindi River inlet.
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Free entry. No fees required.
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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.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports