When I was a child, my dad used to take us down to explore the rock pools at Swansea Heads. It seems like yesterday when he volunteered for the Coast Guard to monitor traffic in and out of the channel. The coast guard sits perched on the bluff of Swansea heads but beneath the headland is a natural playground, with rock pools brimming with life.
How to get to Swansea Heads
Take the Swansea exit at the roundabout and drive up Lambton Parade to Reid’s Reserve. Here you’ll find a lovely open park right on the edge of the channel. Park your car and let the kids play while you enjoy some morning tea. There’s a new playground area the kids will love.
Reid Reserve Playground
This playground is a lovely new addition to the area and a great place to stop for lunch or a picnic. With plenty of space, and climbing options, you can sit under the shade of a tree while the kids swing and slide.
Enjoying Swansea Heads
When you’re ready for some adventure, head up to the end of the carpark towards the channel entrance. You’ll see the jet skis jumping through the waves and the big boats coming and going through the channel. The tidal changes bring fresh ocean water into the channel and the inlet beside the rock pools.
The inlet is a lovely spot to take the family for a swim, especially the little ones as it’s a gentle descent in to the water. Take some shade and pack the buckets and spades for the kids to build and explore the area.
Rockpool exploring
Only meters away are the rock pools brimming with life. The kids will find a range of shells and sea snails hidden beneath the water. Watch the sea creatures, crabs, vegetation and even starfish. Play a game of seek and find but don’t remove anything living from its home. It’s a great opportunity to remind kids about respect and care for our special places, so they can also show their children.
Fishing at Swansea Heads
While you’re enjoying your time down at Swansea Heads, there are plenty of spots to throw your line off the rocks. Always take care when rock fishing and follow the safety advice of Water Safety NSW. If you’re lucky you’ll catch yourself bream, flathead or tailor for dinner.
The rock pools at Swansea Heads are a lovely family day out in Lake Macquarie, especially for the locals. With so much adventure at our doorstep, it’s one of many natural playgrounds we are grateful to have here in Lake Mac.
