North Narrabeen Rock Pool

 “To me the sea is a continual miracle; The fishes that swim–the rocks–the motion of the waves–the ships, with men in them, What stranger miracles are there?” – Walt Whitman

On the 24-11-2012 at 3PM the day was fine but overcast. Narrabeen has a large ticketed car park which generally copes with the amount of visitors and is also accessed by a 155 bus service running to Manly. On this day the water temperature was a brisk 19c on a medium tide, which was unusually murky. In defence of our regular haunt and dear old friend, later that day the rockpool was hit with a tide of red algae on its annual march southwards from the tropics. So we have to say that our local knowledge of the venue is that the water is generally clear with a beautiful view southwards towards Long Reef.

The pool structure consists of two 50m areas for lapping and leisure swimmers respectively. It faces eastwards to the ocean and has timber boardwalks around and through the centre of the pool. The changing amenities are clean and well maintained.

North Narrabeen has recently undergone a refurbishment and there is a new designated BBQ area (free gas) with shaded tables, which overlooks the Narrabeen Lagoon. The lagoon is an added bonus for a family day out, where fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding and a plethora of water sports including aligatoring, of course, take place. The caravan park across the road ensures a magic holiday spot!

This pool is also a very popular spot amongst the animal kingdom, which adds to the unique ambiance of the environment. The migratory whales, dolphins and the odd shark (no need to be alarmed) visit frequently on a sojourn from their trip up the coast and back. They play in the very popular, world famous Narrabeen right-hand surf break, which runs alongside the rocks surrounding the pool. The area is a domain for surfers and rock fisherman alike.

The pool is lit by a tall set of night lights and in previous years its generated warmth has attracted our compatriots in arms, a squadron of pelicans headed up by squadron leader Geoffrey (Rush). The significance of this highly-prized habitat is that it not only provides fabulous sleeping quarters but it is a tremendous vantage point, up and down the coastline, for food. Good enough reason for Ghandi to have a great affinity towards the pelicans! So it was with great concern that the Splosh found that the pelicans had been deposed this season and their kingdom has been subjected to a take over bid by the Gannets. It is true that Obi-Wan has been somewhat distracted by the magnificent plumage that the Gannets display during their drying ritual, but nothing can surpass the majestic fly past of the massive pelican hercules' of the sky. We salute you and your men Geoffrey and wish you Godspeed in the territorial war to regain your kingdom!

There is a cafe/restaurant beside the car park or alternatively a short walk to warriewood.

In the interests of fairness we have to rate the pool as we found it on the set excursion date and we reluctantly score lower than we would like.

Splosh Rating *** and 1/2

 * A note to fellow sploshee's Ghandi would like a lilo for Christmas to ride the incoming tide!You never know your luck in a big city, no harm in asking!

Gannet Kingdom