Nestled into the rocky base of Bonville Headland in Sawtell, this 42m x 13m ocean-fed rock pool offers a safe, protected swimming and snorkeling haven on the Coffs Coast. Built into the natural rock shelf and opened in the summer of 1962, it was officially dedicated as a war memorial in 1963. The pool is sheltered from the strong rip currents that run along the headland, making it an ideal spot for families and less confident swimmers. A new amenities block features a stunning local mural, while the headland above provides panoramic ocean views perfect for sunset picnics. The natural sandy bottom and clear tidal flushing create a small but charming underwater environment to explore with a mask and snorkel.
Sawtell Memorial Rock Pool
BeginnerGO
GO
It's a go.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.6 mSwell Period 6.3 sWind Speed 3.8 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Strong permanent rip outside pool
A strong, permanent rip current runs past the headland immediately outside the rock pool walls. Stay inside the pool boundaries.
Low risk: Slippery rocks on entry
The rock shelf and steps into the pool can be slippery when wet. Care needed when entering and exiting.
Low risk: No lifeguard on duty
There are no lifeguards patrolling this rock pool. Swim at your own risk.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
Be the first to share a photo
No photos yet — yours could be the first.
Photos are reviewed by moderators before they appear.
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
From Coffs Harbour, take the Pacific Highway south and turn into Sawtell. Follow Boronia Street to the end where the rock pool is located at the foot of Bonville Headland, at the northern end of Bonville Beach.
Parking & facilities
Free parking available in the car park and on-street along Boronia Street, with a short walk down stairs to the pool.
toiletsshowersparkingpicnic_tables
Free entry, open 24 hours a day.
Spot Map
Community
Trust
Is this spot real, accurate, still loved?
Spots near New South Wales
No nearby spots yet.
Needs verification
Quick verify
One tap helps the community keep this spot honest.
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