Things to do in Seal Rocks

A beautiful, isolated part of New South Wales, with a small surface area and even smaller human population, Seal Rocks is an idyllic beach town 275km north of Sydney. Not surprisingly, the area is named after its history as home to a breeding colony of Australian fur seals. During the summer months, the seal population is considerable, reaching 16,000, and can easily be viewed from the mainland. Sharks and whales can also be spotted in the surrounding waters. Despite it being a prime location for tourism, with a developing caravan site and exceptional fishing, the coastline and town have remained unspoiled, a world away from the city and main roads.

Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse

Seal Rocks’ most spectacular tourist attraction has to be Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse. Overlooking an unspoilt beach and the rocks which seals use to make their home, three outbuildings that adjoin the lighthouse have been turned into cottages to provide tourists with ideal accommodation. Built in 1875, it is the second-most easterly lighthouse in Australia and still contains all its original charm and beauty.

Seal Rocks is a haven for those searching for an active day by the water. It’s a popular destination for divers, fisherman, surfers and bushwalking enthusiasts, despite the difficult access via private and unsealed roads.

Accommodation

A keen camper would revel in Treachery Camp at Seal Rocks. The site is free form, so you can book, arrive and set up camp wherever takes your fancy. The amenities block is complete with hot showers, flushing toilets and washing and drying machines, and you can cook your dinner either on the provided gas barbecues or over campfire. Located behind Treachery Beach, you can eat and sleep under the stars and wake up to the sounds of the ocean. Prices are $14 per person during low and mid seasons, and $17 per person in peak season.

If you’re going to stay at Seal Rocks, go the whole hog and stay in one of the three Seal Rocks Lighthouse cottages. Not only do you have panoramic ocean views on your doorstep, the famous lighthouse is your next-door neighbour. Though you may not be able to knock for a cup of sugar, it will provide you with a rather nice setting for your holiday. Whether you’re looking for a midweek escape, romantic break or group holiday to go whale watching, surfing, admire the natural beauty or experience the nature trails, the lighthouse cottages suit all. The Head Keeper’s Cottage sleeps eight in three queen bedrooms with two additional single beds, while the two Assistant Keepers’ cottages sleep seven in two queen bedrooms with an additional single bed and convertible sofa. The Head Keeper’s Cottage costs $2600 per week during whale season and $3000 per week between October and April, but these do increase during school holidays. Check out www.sealrockslighthouseaccommodation.com.au to make a reservation.

Getting there

As Seal Rocks is so treasured by locals, it is tricky to get to. By road, leave Sydney on the Sydney-Newcastle Freeway, past Newcastle on Pacific Hwy. Turn onto The Lakes Way and follow down to Seal Rocks by Seal Rocks Road. The journey should take no longer than 3.5 hours. If you’re travelling by train, grab one from Sydney to Broadmeadow to Bungwahl and then a taxi is your best bet to finish the journey down Seal Rocks Road.