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When most people think of Melbourne beaches they don’t imagine picturesque, sparkly blue rock pools that are hidden away from the crowds. But that’s exactly what Cairns Bay rock pool is, it’s definitely a hidden gem on the Mornington Peninsula.
This summer in Melbourne I had so much fun exploring everything the city had to offer, plus going on the most epic day trips. And, Cairns Bay rock pool near Flinders is the best way to spend a hot summer’s day.
Although Cairns Bay isn’t the easiest to find, I’ve put together this easy-to-follow guide with all the directions you’ll need to find the best rock pool in Melbourne.
Where is Cairns Bay Rock Pool
Cairns Bay is around a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne CBD and there are plenty of beaches and seaside towns along the way to stop at.
So the rock pools are off Boneo Road, between Punchbowl Road & Keys Road. In maps type in ‘Tea Tree Creek & Cairns Bay Walk’ for car park location.
Then there’s a small car park is visible from the road and once you’ve parked you will see a wooden sign saying Mornington Peninsula national Park and tea tree creek, then pass through the wooden fence you’ll see a sign for walking track and Cairns bay 600 meters.
From there it’ll be a clear and easy walk down towards the ocean. The path is surrounded by farmland and lots of wide-open space.
Once you make it down the stairs to the rocky beach you still won’t be able to see any sign of the stunning Cairns Bay rock pools, but don’t lose hope. At the bottom of the staircase head around to your left.
The beach is covered in large rocks, that are easy enough to walk over (as long as you aren’t injured) but there’s actually a narrow dirt path along the back of the beach. And, this was easier to walk on.
Then once you reach the far left side of the beach you will start walking towards the ocean and see the beautiful Cairns bay rock pool.
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Swimming in Cairns Bay Rock Pool, Melbourne
Surprisingly the Cairns Bay rock pool can only be accessed at low tide as during high tide the whole area is covered in water. We arrived pretty much right at low tide and it was absolutely perfect.
Also, we visited mid-week and got so lucky to have the whole area to ourselves. It was absolutely beautiful, the water was crystal clear, the perfect depth for diving in and swimming.
Plus, the waves were crashing over the rocks and adding in fresh flowing water, but the rock wall behind the pool stopped the waves from ever feeling too intense or unsafe.
One of the best things about Cairns Bay rock pools is how secluded and quiet it feels, definitely very different from some of the crowded beaches along the Mornington Peninsula. But saying that, means there are no shops or cafes close by. I would recommend taking drinks and a picnic lunch down to Cairns Bay with you!
Also, there aren’t any rubbish bins at Cairn Bay either so make sure you take everything back with you.
Other Things to do at Cairns Bay Rock Pool and Beach
Snorkeling
Sun bake
Picnic lunch
Read a book
Explore
Best Time to Visit Cairn Bay Rock Pool
Now for the best view & swimming opportunity, you’ll need to visit this Melbourne rock pool during low tide. And, weather-wise, between December and March will be the hottest and, mid-week if you want to avoid the crowds.
Cairns Bay rock pool is a unique day trip from Melbourne and during low tide offers perfect swimming conditions, even for kids. It’s seriously absolutely stunning down there!
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Elyse is the author & content creator behind A World To Live. After traveling to over 40 countries, she has a passion for discovering new places. Elyse is a money-conscious traveller who loves writing independent travel guides to help her readers get the most out of their travels.
I would love love love to swim in this hole it’s absolutely my kind of relaxation and reminds me of similar ones in iceland
Oh really, how awesome. I would love to visit Iceland
What a great hidden gem! I love places like this. Saving this for when we head to Melbourne. Thanks for the inspiration!
Thanks Bea, you’re very welcome
What a gorgeous place! Would love to go swimming in Cairns Bay Rock Pool. Even the walk down to the shore looks pretty cool.
Thanks Marianne, yeah the whole area is so stunning
Beautiful photos! I would love to see Cairns Bay rock pools some day!
Cairns Bay rock pool sounds like a hidden gem! Mornngton Peninsula itself is a beautiful place. Although the drive to the peninsula is a pain due to slow traffic, places like Sorrento are stunning! Lovely beach, historical things to see and great views too. I will check out the Cairns Rock pool the next time I visit Melbourne. 🙂
Such a beautiful place – what a find! It reminds me a little of the beautiful Les Ecrehous reef just off the coast of Jersey, although I’m sure its much warmer!
Oh, I’ll have to google Les Ecrehous! haha most of the year it would be cold here too
This pool is beautiful! If I ever have the chance to visit, I will definitely try to go mid week like you did to avoid any crowds.
This water pool is gorgeous. I have not been to the Mornington Peninsula but I will definitely visit next time I’m in Melbourne (one of my favourite cities for a getaway from Auckland).
This looks beautiful, definitely adding it to my next Melbourne trip! Can’t wait to get down that way ahain now life is returning to normal!
Cairns Bay Rock Pool is definitely on my list when I go to Australia! That’s just gorgeous! Love your pictures too!
Oh this place is stunning! I actually never heard about this! thanks for letting me know, this is inspiring!
Would love to swim in this rock hole! I have been to a similar one in Cuba and it was really nice!
I would love to swim in this rock pool, it looks beautiful! Hopefully going to Melbourne in July so will be adding this to my day trip list!
It looks absolutely divine! I wouldn’t mind being in a beautiful place like this close to nature and that amazing blue water.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for this article! Adding it to my planning for the next trip to Melbourne! Love finding new places to explore in places we regularly visit!