Tuncurry Rock Pool is a sheltered tidal pool tucked against the southern edge of the northern breakwall where the Coolongolook River meets the sea, between the twin towns of Forster and Tuncurry on the NSW Mid North Coast. More a protected sandy cove than a formal ocean pool, it offers crystal-clear water, white sand, and excellent snorkelling along the rock wall. The pool is netted at the far end for safety, making it popular for families, lap swimmers, and snorkellers alike. Dolphins are frequently spotted from the adjacent breakwall walk, and the calm conditions belie a powerful tidal current during the outgoing tide — a key consideration for visitors.
Tuncurry Rock Pool
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.7 mSwell Period 6.7 sWind Speed 13 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
© Chris OlszewskiThe spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Outgoing tide current
As the tide runs out, the current through the net creates an extraordinarily strong drag that can pull swimmers seaward. The net provides partial protection but strong swimmers only are advised during outgoing tide.
Moderate risk: No lifeguard patrol
The swimming enclosure is unsupervised with no lifeguard on duty at any time.
Moderate risk: Swell over breakwall
Large waves can surge over the breakwall, making the rocks slippery and dangerous. Avoid the breakwall in big swell conditions.
Low risk: No lifeguards on duty
There are no lifeguards patrolling the rock pool or adjacent beach at any time. Visitors swim at their own risk.
Low risk: Cold water in winter
Winter water temperatures can drop to around 20°C, requiring a wetsuit for comfortable extended snorkelling.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
7 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Located at the end of Rockpool Road, Tuncurry NSW. About a 3.5-hour drive north of Sydney. The rock pool sits at the southern edge of the northern breakwall where the Coolongolook River meets the ocean.
Parking & facilities
Free large carpark adjacent to the rock pool on Rockpool Road.
toiletsparkingshowerspicnic_tablesdrinking_water
Free entry. Open 24 hours. The area is zoned as an alcohol-free zone.
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Gallery ┬╖ 7 photos
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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