Did you know that in the late 90s, a few episodes of the popular American action drama television series, Baywatch, were filmed at the Avalon rock pool? Get to know more about the history of one of the most popular swimming spots in Northern Beaches.
Avalon Beach is one of the most popular and picturesque beaches on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and at the southern end of the beach lies the Avalon Rock Pool. The rock pool has become an icon of the Northern Beaches and a popular spot for photographers, with its stunning location where waves crash over the walls. The pool is surrounded by rocky cliffs, and the area has undergone many changes since the rock pool was first built.
Avalon Rock Pool: From inception to expansion
The rock pool is 25 meters long and was built in 1917, thanks to the efforts of the residents and developer Arthur J. Small. Small was responsible for many early subdivisions in Avalon and pushed for the construction of the pool. The council agreed to build the pool upon receiving a donation of £30 from local residents. The pool was excavated into the rock shelf, which was a roughly rectangular shape, measuring about 12 m × 5.5 m.
Throughout its history, the Avalon rock pool has undergone multiple transformations and expansions. In 1922, the pool was extended by 5.5 meters, accompanied by the addition of a timber dressing shed for ladies.
Subsequent developments in the late 1920s involved deepening the pool by demolishing rocks to create a larger swimming area, complemented by the construction of protective walls. In 1937, further expansion took place, resulting in a pool that now spans approximately 30 meters in length and is enclosed by sturdy, high concrete walls.
In May 1938, the council estimated the cost of a children’s pool at £75, but lack of funds delayed the project. The following year, the council committed to building the 8 m × 5 m children’s pool, which was completed by August. Subsequent improvements took place in 1967 and the late 1970s, including repairs to the northeastern side and the concreting of the pool’s floor.
The Baywatch backlash
In 1998, Avalon boasted a population of over 9,000 residents and caught the attention of the producers of the popular American soap opera Baywatch. Several episodes of the show were filmed at the Avalon rock pool, adding a touch of glamour to the serene location.
However, controversy arose when the Baywatch crew unexpectedly detonated a yacht near the pool, causing alarm among the community. Swimmers were hurriedly asked to vacate the pool to accommodate a rescue scene being filmed. Unfortunately, in the commotion, a woman in her eighties sustained an arm injury, promptly attended to by the TV crew.
The proposal to turn Avalon into the primary filming location for the entire Baywatch series, spanning seven months a year for six years, triggered concerns among local residents. Worried about increased weekend visitors and restricted access to the beach and pool, an Anti-Baywatch Action group rallied support, collecting petition signatures.
Strong negative sentiments expressed at a council meeting led to the abandonment of further filming plans in Avalon, with the production relocating to Hawaii.
Avalon Rock Pool today
Today, the rock pool is a popular destination for swimmers, surfers, and photographers, and it continues to be maintained and updated by the local council. The area around the pool has also been improved over the years, with a wire fence installed at the base of the cliff to trap falling rocks and protect bathers from potential hazards.
It features a shallow toddler pool for little ones to enjoy. After a refreshing swim, treat yourself to a nourishing snack at one of the nearby local cafes. To access the rockpool, make your way from the carpark off Barrenjoey Road, where pay-and-display parking is available.
Published 13-May-2023
