The Bogey Hole – Newcastle’s Historic Ocean Bath
The Bogey Hole – A Historic Ocean Bath by the Sea
Cut directly into the cliffs of Shepherds Hill in the early 1800s, The Bogey Hole is one of Australia's oldest and most unique ocean baths. Built by convicts for Major James Morisset around 1819, it remains one of Newcastle's most iconic swimming spots — a place where history meets the raw energy of the Pacific Ocean. For more NSW ocean pools, explore Bermagui Blue Pool or discover Wylie's Baths in Coogee.
Unlike modern ocean pools, The Bogey Hole feels wild and elemental. Waves crash over the rock ledge, filling the pool naturally with seawater, while the sandstone walls and hand-carved steps remind you of its convict origins.
You'll find The Bogey Hole featured in Swim New South Wales, our guide to the state's best and most extraordinary swimming locations — from heritage ocean pools to rainforest waterfalls.
A Place Steeped in History
Originally known as the "Commandant's Bath," the Bogey Hole was later opened to the public and renamed using the Aboriginal word "bogey", meaning "to bathe."
Over the past two centuries, it has become an enduring part of Newcastle's identity — a place for sunrise swims, photography, and quiet reflection. Listed on the State Heritage Register, it stands as a living link between Newcastle's convict past and its coastal culture today.
Swimming at The Bogey Hole
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Conditions: The Bogey Hole is directly exposed to the ocean, so conditions can vary from calm to powerful depending on tides and swell.
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Safety: Always swim within your ability. Avoid during rough seas — waves can easily wash over the pool's edge.
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Best Time: Early mornings are calmest and offer the most stunning light for photography.
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Accessibility: Reached via a short but steep walkway from King Edward Park.
📌 For safety information and current conditions, visit the City of Newcastle website.
Tips for Visiting
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Bring reef shoes — the rocks can be slippery.
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Arrive early to enjoy the pool without crowds.
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After your swim, take a walk up to Shepherds Hill Lookout for panoramic views.
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The Bogey Hole is photogenic year-round, but sunrise and late afternoon offer the best light.
More Ocean Baths in New South Wales
If you love the Bogey Hole, don't miss these other heritage ocean pools featured in Swim New South Wales:
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Wylie's Baths – a timber-decked tidal pool in Coogee built in 1907.
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Giles Baths – a hidden rock pool tucked into Coogee's northern headland.
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Whale Beach Rockpool – a small but stunning ocean pool on Sydney's Northern Beaches. Discover more NSW swimming spots in our complete guide.
Each location offers its own blend of history, atmosphere, and ocean energy — and together they form a living map of NSW's coastal swimming culture.
Final Thoughts
The Bogey Hole isn't just another swimming spot — it's a living relic of New South Wales' past, shaped by convicts, claimed by locals, and loved by swimmers for over 200 years. Whether you visit for a sunrise dip or to photograph its rugged beauty, it's one of the most authentic ocean baths in Australia.
For more stunning swimming spots — from ocean baths to secluded waterfalls — grab a copy of Swim New South Wales. It's your essential guide to discovering the most beautiful and unexpected places to swim across the state.
