This heavily trafficked location is found at the end of Boondilla Road in The Entrance.

The Entrance Ocean Baths (otherwise known as the Grant McBride Baths), built between 1938 and 1965, is a feature-packed location with all the needed amenities.

Not only does it have a 7-lane Olympic-size 50m pool, but it also has a smaller 6-lane 22m pool and a children’s wading pool, with all pools fed from the neighbouring ocean.

There is also a club building, with toilets, showers and change rooms, and a large covered seating area beside the main pool. 

In addition, there is a constructed wooden platform at the northern end of the pools, attached to the upper section of the club building, with great views down onto the pools, and along the coastline.

It is a popular spot amongst locals getting some exercise or cooling off on a hot day. And best of all, entrance is free. 

The iconic baths are nestled along the pristine Central Coast coastline, among the rocks between beautiful Entrance Beach and Roberts Beach.

A lovely little looped walk around the pools can be done. Take the small set of stairs at the southern end of the pools to the base of the small sandstone cliffs and round the headland to Roberts Beach.

From there explore the rocky shoreline of Roberts Beach before heading up to Edith’s Ring – which has a lovely seat with coastal views and views down to the pool, as well as an art installation.

Finally, head back down the street and finish up at the viewing platform to the north of the pools, with great views across the pool and north to Entrance Beach, Tuggerah Beach, and the tidal mouth of Tuggerah Lake.

Note that given the pools are tidal ocean pools, they are often closed for cleaning and maintenance during low tide or after major weather events. 

In addition, the pools are typically only patrolled during the day from late-September to late-April. Even when patrolled, swim with caution and always supervise children. The pools may also be dangerous during major weather events.

The walk is a great addition to a day-trip to the area, visiting other popular sites such as Long Jetty, as well as the Terrigal Boardwalk and The Skillion further south down the coast, and Norah Head Lighthouse further north.

Track: The walk involves concrete paths, a number of steps and some sections across rocks and the beach. While not signed, the walk is easy to navigate. 

Difficulty: The walk is relatively easy and suitable for all fitness levels. The viewing platform and pools are wheelchair accessible (some assistance may be required).

Care should be taken on the rocky section that leads to Roberts Beach.

Even when patrolled, swim with caution and always supervise children. The pools may also be dangerous during major weather events.

Direction: This is a looped track that can be completed in either direction, but it is suggested to start from the viewing platform and complete the walk in a clockwise direction.