In the summer, stand-up paddleboarding isone of the coolest ways to get on the water and get a feel for balance. It is approximately 40km (25mi) from Kempsey. Horseshoe Bay is also generally quite protected and has small waves, as does Hat Head near Korogoro Creek. In the summer, stand-up paddleboarding is one of the coolest ways . Click icons on the map for more detail. Rarely crowded here. The population of South West Rocks is 5,313 people,[2] and maintains a steady growth rate. Whether you are an advanced surfer or a beginner, youll be able to find waves that suit your ability and your level of experience. With proprietary LOTUS report on swell, wind and waves and 16-day surf forecasts, so you can know before you go. In 2023, the Land and Environment Court of New South Wales ruled in favour of a residential project proceeding on the basis of a development application originally applied for in 1993.[11]. vote. Amazing views from this beach, great walkways, kiosk and the waves - amazing Highly recommend a day on this beach, ea. The best information from local sources.My articles have been published in enRoute Magazine the inflight magazine of Air Canada and Hotel & Accommodation Management Magazine.David CronkEditor, Agoda: find hotels in Singapore, Singapore, Agoda: find hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Things to do in New South Wales Things to do in Bali, Copyright Travelodium Travel Magazine 2022, link to Things to do in Ratchada - Bangkok - Thailand, link to Things to do in Ari - Bangkok - Thailand. Moruya Rivermouth in Far South Australia is an exposed beach/sandbar break that has quite reliable surf, although summer tends to be mostly flat. Clean surfable waves are typically found 40% of the time in June while 58% of the time it tends to be blown out. The Columbia Bar is a system of bars and shoals at the mouth of the Columbia River spanning the U.S. states of Oregon and Washington. South Haven Sea Temperature. The bridge that can be crossed to reach Back Beach, also acts as a good place for the kids to fish. South West Rocks is a five-hour drive from Sydney and just under six hours from Brisbane. Jeffrey's Bay (affectionately termed 'J-Bay') is ranked 2nd as one of the . SW Rocks itself is not as well known for its surf, vs its neighbours of Crescent Head, Grassy Head Beach and Hat Head. It picks up more swell than most places around the Geraldton area. South West Rocks. The tourist population of South West Rocks increases markedly during the holiday season. Current Temp*: 68 F *ocean temperature recorded from . Sunny with pleasant to warm air temperatures (feels like 16.0 C) at Klamath Rivermouth, yet the sea remains very cold (9.8 C). The west coast surf craze was leaking into Middle America, and small surfing communities sprouted across the Great Lakes. [4], On 13 May 1770, Captain James Cook observed smoke from a fire on a mountain which he named Smoky Cape. Arakoon was originally established as the township on Trial Bay in 1866. Local fishermen, OceanWatch Australia and the local surf life saving club hold an annual Loaves and Fishes Barbeque on Good Friday. You can enjoy the spectacular views from up top while spotting dolphins or whales throughout the year. Horseshoe Bay is the most popular. Take care of rips,urchin, sharks . For the remaining 2% of the time it is considered too small by mostsurfers but may still be OK for beginners and groms at times. Based on The water temperature (22.7 C) at Bowes Rivermouth is warm and the air temperature should feel similar (windchill forecast 18.0 C). In big Southerly or SE swells, waves peel off the break wall at Laggers Point, and this can be a good option for long boarders or surfing in the right conditions. Current swell conditions from local buoys are shown along with live wind speed and direction from nearby weather stations. LADDER ROCK - GLENMORE BEACH - Rock & Surf. The larger waves and prime surfing time is during the fall, winter and spring. David has travelled to over 30 countries of the world and his writing has been published by enRoute magazine - Air Canada's inflight magazine and by Hotel & Accommodation Management Magazine. Check the Weather Conditions. Grill areas, picnic and shaded pavilions available. He has worked also as a Hotel Night Manager and in bars throughout Europe. Current swell conditions from local buoys are shown along with live wind speed and direction from nearby weather stations. The rock and surf fishing, and the estuary fishing is excellent. If the sun shines as forecast, it should feel warm enough to get away with a good sealed spring wetsuit but you won't overheat in a winter wetsuit, gloves boots and a hood. You can also join a tour of the lighthouse just make sure to book ahead of time. Vote. The most popular beach in the town is the 150m long Horseshoe Bay, which is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer holidays. Transport for NSW has installed 2 web cameras in the South West Rocks area to ensure that skippers are given the best and most up-to-date information to assist in deciding to attempt a bar crossing in this area. We have been providing travel information to independent travellers for 15 years. Gap . Join a dive tour with South West Rocks Dive Centre. It is also patrolled on weekends and during the holiday season. [6] Elements of all three vessels were salvaged, but the hull of Sydney Queen filled with sand and could not be removed. It features beaches, rocky coves, and bush-covered headlands. If the sun does come out as forecast, it should feel warm enough to surf in a shorty or a summer wetsuit. Just offshore is Fish Rock Cave. Read on to find out! Rhonda R. The Smoky Cape Lighthouse Quarters is a bed and breakfast that you can stay in, and the cliff-top walkway to North Smoky Beach is an easy walk. The area's beaches as well as man-made attractions such as Trial Bay Gaol and Smoky Cape Lighthouse are local tourist attractions. Sadly, the prison closed in 1903, but reopened 12 years later to house enemy aliens. The wettest month is March and the driest month is September. Join a dive tour withSouth West Rocks Dive Centre or Fish Rock Dive Centre. There is no high school despite the efforts of the Lower Macleay Valley High School Association. Located about 35km south of Sydney, this area has a lot to offer visitors. This distance and driving directions will also be displayed on an interactive map labeled as Distance Map and Driving Directions Michigan (US). Today, many surfers would wear a shorty. Take in the view from the top or follow theSmoky Cape Walking Trackalong the coastline. Tropical cyclones which form further to the north have been known to impact on the area occasionally but this has only happened on an about half a dozen occasions over the last 100 years.[9]. Surfable waves that hold up well for longer rides in prevailing cross-offshore, offshore or light wind conditions. If you want a beach to yourself, then this is the place. 4. 1 South West Rocks is a stunning coastal town along the Mid-North Coast of NSW. Madison Heights Michigan Waterpark . The information contained herein is published as a guide only and Transport for NSW does not accept any responsibility for errors or omissions, or for any loss or damage incurred by any person directly or indirectly relying on such information. The use of the information is at the user's own risk. The closest passenger airport to The Rivermouth is Norman Y Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) in USA, 45 km (28 miles) away (directly). Oceanside is located adjacent to The Rocks Shopping Fair; it is a relatively new subdivision in South West Rocks and consists of recently built houses. Tide Location South West Rocks, Australia - 3.03 km away. Upload your own or view all photos on the gallery page. You will need a quality steamer wetsuit, a neoprene hood, gloves and boots. This picturesque town is 40 kilometers north of Kempsey. 6-8 FT. South West Rocks. The best time of year for surfing Bowes Rivermouth with consistent clean waves (rideable swell with light / offshore winds) is during Winterand most often the month of June. Located on a headland east of South West Rocks, the heritage-listed Smoky Cape Lighthouse is one of the most iconic attractions in the region. South West Rocks gets the highest mean amount of rain during the Autumn and the lowest mean amount of rain during the Spring. The 1.6 km long Back [], Hat Head Beach & National Park One of the top things to do in the Macleay Valley/ SW Rocks area is to snorkel at Hat Head Creek. The best wind is Northeast, not east as a lot of the time the east is slightly side shore. At latitude 30.89 and longitude 153.04, South West Rocks' tides (measured at Jerseyville) are 60 minutes later than Sydney. The very north-end left can still be good with a light e/s east as it is tucked in closer to shore. The town is also home to a historic School of Arts Community Hall built in 1926. South West Rocks is a town located on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, Australia, near the mouth of the Macleay River.It is approximately 40 km (25 mi) from Kempsey. We all want more time in the water. The Smoky Cape Lighthouse in Hat Head National Park, Arakoon. South West Rocks may be divided into five main areas: South West Rocks, Arakoon, Oceanside, New Entrance and Spencerville. South West Rocks is one of NSWs best-kept secrets, a little pocket of tranquillity at the mouth of the Macleay River that boasts stunning beaches, beautiful nature trails and a well-preserved history. The town has the usual amenties and services including supermarkets and pubs. Vote. The Macleay River river provides flathead, mulloway, cobia, bream, sand whiting, blackfish, trevally, bass and mangrove . Situated in the rugged Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, around an hour's drive southwest of Port Elizabeth lies the beautiful town of Jeffrey's Bay. Click the buoys or wind icon to view more information. Located in the northern part of the city, Ari is a trendy and vibrant neighborhood that has become a Travelodium Travel Magazine was formed in 2007. The footage was filmed West of Port Angeles On the Olympic Peninsula. David Cronk is the editor of online travel magazine Travelodium Travel Magazine. There is a picnic area overlooking the ocean, and its a great location [], Gap Beach Gap Beach ss a secluded, white sand beach, that is only accessible by 4WD or hiking the Smoky Cape Track (from Little Bay to the North), or from Captain Cooks Lookout (Smoky Cape). South West Rocks with its ledgendary fishing is located at the mouth of the Macleay River, approximately 470 km from either Sydney or Brisbane. Last Model Run: 01 May 04:00PM Local time (AEST) 01 May 06:00AM GMT Data Status: OK. Run Age 11hrs. South West Rocks has a long history of commercial fishing. Facilities include barbecues and picnic spots. Ratchada is one of the most vibrant and bustling districts in Bangkok, Thailand. Wind stats for The Rivermouth, see the variation in direction and stength by month or season on the history page here. Arakoon National Park is home to Trial Bay Gaol, perched dramatically on the cliffs above the sea. The town of South West Rocks is located in mid-northern New South Wales near the mouth of the Macleay River. You can now get all the best MSW features and more on Surfline. With a 125m-long dive through cave, its one of the worlds best cave diving sites and also a breeding ground for rare grey nurse sharks. Proximity to the continental shelf makes this area one of the top NSW locations for blue water sportsfishing. Many claimed it was safest to moor vessels near the rocks. Waves usually considered too small for good surf. Ready to try it for yourself? Ideal winds are from the east. South West Rocks has such a great variety of beaches, there is a beach for everyone, from the kids/ grandkids and those wanting to avoid surf, through to those learning to surf, experienced surfers, kayakers, people wanting to do Stand up Paddleboarding (SUP) on a creek, and those wanting to find a more secluded beach with a view, far from everyone else. (Trial Bay Back Beach, where SW Rocks creek flows out). View information about nearby surf breaks, their wave consistency and rating compared to other spots in the region. Then, choose your next meal! Nestled on the mid-north coast, at the mouth of the Macleay River, this small coastal town delivers big on family fun. Thanks to ongoing improvements in wetsuit technology, surfers are now able to comfortably ride lake waves year-round. This is where youll find the serenity! However Trial Bay Back beach can get decent surf depending on the swell direction (i.e Easterly or N.E.E). Though it is believed thatGreat Lakesbreakers were first surfed nearly a century ago, the first significant wave of participants arrived in the 1960s. Cape Clairault - just south of location with same name. Here are a few tips for your first time hitting waves on the Great Lakes: 1. . The breaks north of the river are also reef and work best on low to medium tides and can be fast breaking fun waves. In addition to the scenic natural settings, South West Rocks has a quaint town centre. The heritage listed Trial Bay Gaol is a former internment camp and public works prison located in Cardwell Street, Arakoon, Kempsey Shire, New South Wales. Pack a picnic lunch and take in the panoramic views of the area. Climb to the top of the 498m Mount Yarrahapinni for views of almost the entire Macleay Valley Coast. PULPIT ROCK - GLENMORE BEACH - Rock & Surf. Additional info. Despite the pristine conditions and the onsite doctor, not one of the prisoners ever died in the jail. Quality-3.5 cosistency-3 difficulty-3-4 water quality-5 crowds-3-4 access 4, *ocean temperature recorded from satellite. Most of our articles have been sourced from people who like to help travellers and have written articles that give information about the cities they live in. Understand how to safelycross coastal bars. All the insider news, tips and inspiration you need to plan your next trip, delivered straight to your inbox. This jail was the first to use prisoners. A World Heritage site with fabulous views, Coral reefs, crystal-clear waters & island life, Explore Australia's longest river & beyond, Natural beauty from headland to hinterland. Early pioneers, the Gaol complex, and the new entrance to the Macleay River are detailed. Wind stats for Bowes Rivermouth, see the variation in direction and stength by month or season on the history page here. Today, many surfers would wear a winter wetsuit, a neoprene hood . Go early..fills up fast on hot days. While ocean waves are created by distant storm systems, waves on the Great Lakes are formed by localized winds. Right in the centre of town, it has a sheltered cove and a top right-hand surf break. [5], In 1972, a Sydney Harbour showboat, Sydney Queen, and the former Newcastle car carriers Lurgurena and Koondooloo, were wrecked on the Main Beach after breaking free from their moorings in heavy storms. Your rating will help us improve the website. However Trial Bay Back beach can get decent surf depending on the swell direction (i.e Easterly or N.E.E). Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to get news updates, locals tips, and to see amazing photos and videos, Horseshoe Bay & Trial Bay Main Beach (Front) Trial Bay Main Beach (Front) Trial Bay Front Beach stretches from Horseshoe Bay at the Northern end all the way down to Laggers Point with Trial Bay Gaol at the Southern end (within Arakoon National Park). Stop by for surf and SUP lessons, music, beach yoga, and more, then end the day with a surf-themed film festival on the beach. Today, many surfers would wear a spring wetsuit, a neoprene hood, gloves and boots. This is no longer the case. While the translations are generally accurate, SLSA cannot guarantee their accuracy. Family-friendly waterpark offers multiple attractions: Wave-action pool; Triple-flume waterslide; Children's water playground with 68 features; Water play area for toddlers; and 990-foot long moving river with fitness walking program available. In the First World War it was an internment camp for people of German descent living in Australia. 1. Sea temperatures (22.1 C) warm too. [citation needed]. Self-guided tours are available daily; or take aguided twilight touror dedicated tour for children to bring this fascinating history to life. The convicts were never seen again. Visitors today can see and hear the stories of the prisoners. South West Rocks. These weather Systems often cause major flooding in the valley and also cause beach erosion and wind damage. Holiday. Take care of urchins, rips, rocks and sharks. Hat Head boasts a few decent breaks. The Rivermouth in Santa Cruz is a sheltered beach break. Further south is the Smoky Cape Lighthouse. Today, the town consists of a small number of houses, a caravan park, and a cafe. The Trial Bay Kiosk & Licensed Restaurant is another great option if youre visiting the area. Dating back to 1891, its one of the oldest lighthouses in Australia and was designed by architect James Barnet, who also designed the General Post Office in Martin Place. Wildcat and The Window - west of Quinninup Road. The best time of year for surfing The Rivermouth with consistent clean waves (rideable swell with light / offshore winds) is during Summerand most often the month of June. February 11, 2021. Effective windchill factor of (11.0 C). A 1-1/2 mile walk along the historic U.S. Coast Guard road nearby is worth the trek, with . Best around low tide. It can be up to a 800 metre ride in the right swell size and direction, with long multiple barrel sections, as creek/ river flows out (but you do need an Easterly swell direction and the creek to be flowing out). There is a range of accommodation options including caravan parks, flats, and motels. Surf stats for Bowes Rivermouth, see the swell variation by month or season on the history page here. Radio signals are able to be received from multiple locations, including; Port Macquarie, Kempsey, and Coffs Harbour. Alternatively, the Malt & Honey Cafe is an interesting option, with shabby chic tables and recycled timber. The population of South West Rocks is 5,313 people, and maintains a steady growth rate. In 1816 a boat that had been stolen by convicts was wrecked on South West Rocks as they attempted to sail to South East Asia. South West Rocks has a number of heritage-listed sites, including: South West Rocks has a warm and wet humid subtropical climate. However, by 1889, South West Rocks had established itself as a popular bathing resort with people of the Macleay Valley. Destination NSW acknowledges and respects Aboriginal people as the states first people and nations and recognises Aboriginal people as the Traditional Owners and occupants of New South Wales land and water. The museum also features a fascinating history of floods and the changes they had on the Macleay River. At the Boatmans Cottages, you can pick up some local arts and crafts; or take a trip down memory lane in the quaint 6th Toe picture theatre, housed in the 1926 School of Arts Community Hall. Fish Rock Cave (2km from SW Rocks) is rated as a top 10 dive site in Australia and has one of the largest ocean caverns in the Southern Hemisphere. South West Rocks is a town located on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, Australia, near the mouth of the Macleay River. Ryan Gerard has been surfing for the better part of his entire life, and that passion led to him opening Third Coast Surf Shopin St. Joseph and New Buffalo. David has worked as a Sales Executive for Sheraton and Hilton Hotels and for Hotelbookers in London. It's location gives it a mix of warm tropical and cooler temperate waters at various times of the years, providing seasonal variety and amazing array of species. Klamath Rivermouth Sea Temperature. Also south of the rivermouth are a couple of reefbreaks that can be very good and have bigger sets although sneek sets can punish you. Trial Bay Beach is the most popular location for surfing. Today, many surfers would wear a rashvest wetsuit. Honeycombs - isolated and south of Moses Rock Road. It's often crowded here. Approximately an average of four of these systems impact on the area each year to varying degrees depending on their location and mostly occur from January to June although have been known to occur at other times of the year. In 1902, a Pilots Station was built and was the focus of the towns growth. Located on a cliff-top, this historic landmark is the perfect place to enjoy great views of the surrounding area and the mighty Pacific Ocean. Interactive Bowes Rivermouth surf break location map. The bar is about 3 miles (5 km) wide and 6 miles (10 km) long. 200m along the high rocks in front of the hotel. Concession area for snacks. The best wind direction is from the east. David eventually settled into a position working as a croupier for several years before changing careers to become a Data, Sales and Statistical Analyst. The best conditions reported for surf at The Rivermouth occur when a South-southwest swell combines with an offshore wind direction from the North. vote. Live webcam vision and weather update to help you prepare for a safe boat trip to South West Rocks and Macleay River. South West Rocks has a high ocean temperature as the ocean current flows from the tropical north. Situated within the famous Hat Head National Park, the lighthouse has been a landmark of South West Rocks since 1872. Discover surf breaks near The Rivermouth. The beach breaks offer lefts and rights. At latitude 30.89 and longitude 153.04, South West Rocks tides (measured at Jerseyville) are 60 minutes later than Sydney. TV broadcasts are usually received from Mt Moombil, west of Coffs Harbour, though in some locations it is possible to receive signals from Middlebrother Mtn, Northeast of Taree. With the numerous attractions and activities, South West Rocks is a great place to visit with family or friends. Trial Bay was named after a brig, The Trial, which was stolen and wrecked by convicts in 1816 in the bay that now bears its name. Copyright 2023 Destination NSW. South West Rocks' thunderstorm activity is mainly during the period from September to March (inclusive), with October and November being the months where the risk of a severe thunderstorm is increased due to a relatively high frequency of unstable atmospheric conditions which favour frequent and strong thunderstorm development. The beach is sheltered and is close to some rewarding fishing spots. Simmons Reef Surf Guide. Front Beach stretches for 3.5km and is generally quiet, or get away from it all at the secluded Gap Beach, which is accessed by 4WD only. Trial Bay Main Beach is protected by a breakwall and has gentle waves for beginner surfers; or get away from it all at the secluded Gap Beach, which is accessed by 4WD only. The South West Rocks Marlins play in the Hastings District Rugby League competition. Offshore winds are from the north. For expert advice to guarantee a bite, head out with Trial Bay Fishing Charters or Wildside Sports Fishing. The museum is home to snippets of early history. Jerseyville is located nearby. The town of South West Rocks is located in mid-northern New South Wales near the mouth of the Macleay River.