Attractions
When visiting South West Rocks there really is something for everyone. We're pleased to provide you with some of our favourite attractions to keep you entertained whilst visiting our area.
We've got you covered with options below that include local beach walks, whale watching, fishing, historic sites and local markets. Relax, read our brief guide and plan what time of year is best to visit South West Rocks.
Scuba Diving
Fish Rock Dive Centre
Fish Rock Dive Centre, welcomes you to some the best scuba diving in Australia, if not the world, the unique Fish Rock Cave, graceful grey nurse sharks, migration of the magnificent humpback whales, and plenty more.
134 Gregory Street, South West Rocks, NSW 2431
Phone: (02) 6566 6614
South West Rocks Dive Centre
5/98 Gregory Street, South West Rocks NSW 2431
Email: info@southwestrocksdive.com.au
Phone: 02 6566 6474 (Int) +61 2 65666474
Fax: 02 6566 6959 (Int) +61 2 65666959
http://www.southwestrocksdive.com.au
Trial Bay Gaol
Opened in 1886, after 13 years of construction. The prison labourers were there to construct a breakwater to make Trial Bay a safe harbour between Sydney and Brisbane. Unfortunately the scheme failed, but you and your guests still be able to see the remains of the breakwater from the guard tower lookout. During World War I, the gaol became an internment camp for people of German descent who were feared to be enemy sympathisers.
Today, this picturesque historic ruin stands as a testament to those who lived and died here, with a museum and memorial for visitors to get a better idea of life in those days.
Address: 1 Cardwell St, South West Rocks NSW 2431
Smoky Cape Lighthouse
Smoky Cape Lighthouse is an active lighthouse located on Smoky Cape, a headland east of the town of South West Rocks, New South Wales, Australia, and within the Hat Head National Park. It directs boats towards the entrance to the Macleay River, which is located just to the north of the lighthouse.
Fishing
Whether you are looking to do a bit of beach fishing or river fishing or Hire a deep sea fishing charter, South West Rocks has some of the most pristine waterways on the Mid North Coast.
South West Rocks Fishing Charters
If you’re an avid fisherman or enthusiastic novice we’d love to take you on an adventure packed fishing trip.
The Rocks Fishing Charter’s, South West Rocks, aim is to provide you with the best fishing charter or holiday package experience, through the use of the latest technology in our charter boat, tackle, techniques and equipment.
Our fishing trips cater for all styles of fishing, ranging from float baiting for huge snapper to live baiting for Marlin.
You can choose from either a half day charter or stay overnight with our wide range of fishing holiday packages.
www.southwestrocksfishcharters.com.au
Sea Urchin Fishing Charters
What could be better than a deep sea fishing charter trip in the midst of beautiful South West Rocks? We offer the opportunity to hook big game fish such as Marlin and Mahi-Mahi to a relaxed estuary cruise or watching magnificent whale migrations. The experienced and fun loving Skipper knows all the best fishing spots in the Mid North Coast, NSW and will provide an adventure worthy to tell the grandkids.
South West Rocks Fishing Adventures
Adventure fishing charter trips in South West Rocks, NSW. We catch Marlin, Mahi-mahi, Tuna, Kingfish, Jewfish, Bream, Snapper, Flathead and much more
www.southwestrocksfishingadventures.com.au
Trial Bay Fishing Charters
Trial Bay Deep Sea Fishing Charters , South West Rocks first and most trusted charter operation, has worked off the waters of “The Rocks” for over 19 years .
Trial Bay Fishing Charters will look after your fishing needs, from sport, game or reef fishing our experienced crew has proven its ability.
www.trialbayfishingcharters.com.au
Beach Walking
South West Rocks has 8 beautiful beaches to stroll/run along and take in the sea air and beautiful surrounds.
Horseshoe Bay is a small patrolled beach in the centre of town, Main Beach is also a partially patrolled beach which stretches around to Trial Bay. Trial Bay Beach is a protected little family beach faces west, near Trial Bay Gaol.
Gap Beach and North Smoky beaches are secluded beaches with walking tracks, offering birdwatching, swimming, fishing, and scenic views in Hat Head National Park near South West Rocks
Little Bay Beach is a very popular picnic area for family and couples, relaxing atmosphere with breathtaking views from its headland.
Smoky Beach is a great fisherman’s and 4WD beach stretching approx. 14 kilometres to Hat Head.
Lastly, Back Beach starts at the mouth of back creek is very popular for walking your dog, riding your horse, or just taking a stroll.
Back Creek Bridge is very popular amongst the young for the backflips, frontflips or just belly flops. Kids and families just having a great time.
Horseshoe Bay Markets
Held 2nd Saturday of every month at South West Rocks Reserve, Horseshoe Bay, South West Rocks
Markets are held from 8.00 am to 12.00 noon. These beachside markets are very popular filled with a huge variety of stalls.
Annual Trial Bay Triathlon
South West Rocks Trial Bay Triathlon is held every year on the 2nd weekend in February. It is a two day event that consists of a 500m swim, a 26km bicycle ride and 6km run around Trial Bay.
There are 2 separate events for both Senior and Junior competitors, for further information see their website at www.trialbaytri.com.au
Whale Watching
Whale watching season commences early September to late November.
There are many high points in the South West Rocks and Arakoon where you can view/take photos the humpback whales making their way home to the South, or hire a charter and get a real close up view.
Monument Hill Walking Track
If you take a walk along the Monument Hill walking track, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of casuarinas in the heathlands, spectacular coastal views, and the fresh sea breeze upon your cheeks as you approach the summit.
The monument itself was built as a tribute to German internees who passed away in Trial Bay Gaol during World War I. Along the walk you’ll see many flannel flowers, planted by the internees because they reminded them of edelweiss and of home.
If you do feel like a longer walk, you can join the Bridle trail and loop back via Powder Magazine walking track, and if you’d like a break, you can enjoy a picnic or go for a paddle around Little Bay picnic area.
Little Bay
Covered picnic areas, space for games and a little creek meandering through it, the Little Bay picnic area is a pretty spot for families to relax.
You’ll find the perfect place to unroll your picnic blanket under a coastal wattle or fig tree and the kids will be able to play a game of cricket or throw a frisbee. You can bring a picnic lunch or cook up a feast on one of the barbecues. “Macleay River District Fishermans Co-op”, (near Jerseyville bridge) isn’t far away if you want to stop and pick up some fresh seafood.
Little Bay picnic area is such a great spot for picnics, even families of eastern grey kangaroos like to hang out there.