Coalcliff Beach, at the northern end of the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge, is one of the Illawarra's most picturesque spots for a dip. Here’s what you need to know before you go, thanks to Coalcliff SLSC Director of Lifesaving and club legend Dave Winner
Overlooked by the dramatic cliffs of the Illawarra Escarpment and with views of the Royal National Park coastline, Coalcliff is one of the Illawarra's most beautiful beaches.
Coalcliff SLSC’s Dave Winner says: “A feature of Coalcliff Beach is the ocean pool at the southern end. This is great for families, young children, and novice swimmers.
"The beach is best for confident swimmers due to the sudden depth created by the drop-off.
"Fishermen have an accessible rock platform beyond the ocean pool, however, the rock shelf is slippery and unexpected waves regularly engulf this area. We recommend fishermen have the appropriate safety gear and wear a lifejacket.”
Visitors should keep an eye on surf conditions, swim between the red and yellow flags and ask a lifeguard or lifesaver if they have any questions.
Coalcliff does present regular hazards. “Coalcliff Beach is rocky and has many submerged rocks," Dave says.
"There is also a permanent drop-off close to the shoreline, creating a hazardous shore dump … there is a permanent rip at the southern end of the beach next to the rocks where the creek meets the surf, and also in front of the building where the lifeguard and surf patrols are stationed.
"A permanent rip at the beach's northern end also heads towards the Coalcliff Bombie.”
The word 'bombie' comes from 'Bombora', an indigenous Australian word referring to large waves breaking over a shallow reef, rock shelf or sand bank some distance from the shoreline.
The word also directly inspired the naming of the Bombie Bar, the Coalcliff SLSC's live music event, once held on the roof of the surf club, more recently popping up at the Scarborough Wombarra Bowlo and the Stanwell Park CWA hall. You can follow The Bombie’s Facebook page to view upcoming events.
The club also runs annual beach events, from Nippers to the Black Ironman.
“Coalcliff SLSC has an exciting event schedule throughout the summer that includes fortnightly Nippers and Ocean Swim Club sessions that focuses on participation rather than competition," Dave says.
"Our members can also challenge themselves in the Black Ironman, which is made up of three individual events throughout the season – Bridge to Boatshed Run, Rod Stevens Memorial Paddle and David Winner Beach to Bombie Swim."
Remember to always swim between the red and yellow flags. Wollongong City Council lifeguards patrol the beach from 10am until 5pm from Monday to Saturday, and Coalcliff SLSC lifesavers volunteer their time on Sundays and public holidays. Coalcliff is patrolled over swim season, from about October to April each year.
Visit Council's Beach Safety page for top tips.
Coalcliff is also a great spot for:
- Sport & recreation
Coalcliff Beach is a popular surf spot, with consistent swells off its submerged off-shore rock ledge and some protection from southerly winds. The ocean pool is popular in summer and the home to the Sea Eels Winter Swimming Club. There are outdoor showers next to the saltwater rockpool, as well as public toilets in Leeder Park.
You can enjoy a scenic walk or run across Sea Cliff Bridge, or stroll along the Grand Pacific Walk. Head north to Stanwell Park or south to Clifton. - Kids
With a shallow rockpool, a playground at Leeder Park and public toilets, Coalcliff Beach is a great place to take the kids. - Dogs
Coalcliff Beach is zoned orange, meaning on-leash dogs can visit the beach during designated times, which vary in summer and winter. For more information, visit Council’s website