The pink caves, found in the northern reaches of the Central Coast, have become a bit of a star attraction of our region. A social media celebrity, in a way, with thousands of people visiting, snapping and, of course, sharing the bright walk-through cave every summer. But how do you get there? Is it safe to visit? And what exactly makes this cave glow pink? We have all the answers for you.
Where are the pink caves in NSW?
Okay, let’s go an adventure. The pink caves, sometimes known as the “cotton candy caves” are located within the idyllic Munmorah State Conservation Area on the NSW east coast. This is located between Budgewoi and Catherine Hill Bay, in the far north of the Central Coast region. It’s a two-hour drive from Sydney and 45 minutes from Newcastle. The only way to get here is by car as there’s no public transport nearby.
RELATED: Here’s How to Get to This Biggest Walk-in Cave in NSW
Pink Caves Central Coast
How to get to the pink caves ?
Once you’re inside the Munmorah State Conservation Area, you’ve two options to get to the pink caves. You can jump on the Moonee Beach walking trial. It’s a four kilometre return track, which has some of the best ocean views in the Central Coast. To get onto the track, you have to park your car on Snapper Point Road. Thankfully, the track is easily signposted from here. You simply walk to the northern end of Moonee Beach and you’ll find the pink caves as you walk around the rock ledge. But note to all, this should only ever be attempted at low tide. Or, if you’re not fancying a hike, then park at Hoeey Street in Catherine Hill Bay and it’s a quick 10 minute descent onto the northern end of Moonee Beach with easy access to the caves.
What are the pink caves?
Sometimes known as Deep Cave Bay or the Pink Boulder Sea Cave, these are a set of three caves that are pink hued. There’s two main caves that you can walk into and a smaller cave just a few minutes walk north. What causes the pink colour? Well, in short, nobody really knows. There’s no other examples of pink caves anywhere else in the world, with the natural phenomena truly unique to Australia.
Are the pink caves Central Coast safe to visit?
It’s only recommended to visit during low tide and even then you still have to be careful. In the largest cave, natural erosion has created a passage for the waves to rush through. It’s dangerous to get to close to this split in the rock. It’s absolutely essential to be aware of the tides on the Central Coast when visiting this location and you can check the tides on the Tides for Fishing website.
We shouldn’t need to say it – but please, don’t risk your life for the gram!
Where next? We think you’ll like The Norah Head Lighthouse Walking Track
