The Bogey Hole Newcastle: Australia’s Oldest Ocean Pool Carved by History

Bogey Hole

Carved into the rugged coastline of Newcastle, the Bogey Hole is one of Australia’s most remarkable ocean pools and a must-see destination for coastal travellers. Sitting below King Edward Park with uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean, this heritage-listed site blends dramatic natural beauty with deep colonial history, making it one of the most photographed and talked-about landmarks in New South Wales.

Whether the ocean is surging over its edges or lying calm beneath a blue sky, the Bogey Hole offers a powerful connection to Newcastle’s past and present.

A Convict-Carved Pool with a Remarkable Past

The Bogey Hole dates back to 1819, making it Australia’s oldest known purpose-built ocean swimming pool. It was hand-hewn from a wave-cut rock platform by convicts for Major James Morisset, the longest-serving Commandant of Newcastle. Originally known as the Commandant’s Baths, the pool was intended for his private use, reflecting the early colonial history of the region.

It remains unclear whether the site was an enlargement of a naturally occurring rock pool used by Aboriginal people prior to European settlement. What is certain is that the Bogey Hole represents one of the earliest examples of Australians shaping the coastline for recreation.

Where Nature and Heritage Meet

The name Bogey Hole is believed to derive from a Dharawal word meaning to bathe, a fitting description for this unique ocean pool. Nestled at the base of Shepherds Hill, once known as sheep pasturage hill, the pool is framed by sandstone and conglomerate rock typical of the Hawkesbury Sandstone formation on which Newcastle was built.

Listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, the Bogey Hole is recognised for its historical and cultural importance. It is considered to hold national significance as potentially the earliest purpose-built ocean pool in Australia.

A Coastal Icon for Photographers and Travellers

Bogey Hole

Today, the Bogey Hole is an Instagram favourite and a highlight of the Newcastle coastline. From elevated viewpoints in King Edward Park, visitors can capture dramatic images of waves crashing into the pool or tranquil scenes during calmer conditions.

Its raw, natural setting offers a stark contrast to modern ocean pools, making it especially appealing to travellers seeking authentic coastal experiences. While swimming conditions can vary depending on tides and swell, the Bogey Hole is equally rewarding as a viewing and photography location.

Exploring King Edward Park and Beyond

A visit to the Bogey Hole pairs perfectly with a walk through King Edward Park, one of Newcastle’s most scenic coastal green spaces. The park’s cliff-top paths provide sweeping ocean views and connect easily to other coastal landmarks, creating an ideal route for walkers and photographers.

For visitors to Newcastle, the Bogey Hole offers more than a swim. It is a place to pause, reflect and appreciate how history, geology and the ocean come together on this striking stretch of coast.

Why the Bogey Hole Is a Newcastle Essential

The Bogey Hole stands as a testament to Newcastle’s layered history and enduring connection to the sea. Its survival for more than two centuries speaks to its significance and the ongoing fascination it holds for locals and visitors alike.

For anyone exploring New South Wales’ coastline, the Bogey Hole is an essential stop, offering a rare glimpse into the origins of ocean swimming in Australia and one of the most evocative coastal settings in the country.

Bogey Hole

Location: York Drive, Newcastle NSW 2300, Australia
Setting: King Edward Park, coastal Newcastle
Heritage Status: NSW State Heritage Register

Website: https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/north-coast/newcastle-area/newcastle/attractions/bogey-hole

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