Oak Park
A free ocean pool with a sandy sloping entry is the standout feature at Oak Park in Cronulla, on Cronulla Esplanade beside Shelley Park. The park also has a playground, two undercover barbecues and covered picnic tables, while the pool looks across the Hacking River mouth toward Royal National Park.
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About Oak Park
Ocean Pool at Oak Park
Oak Park has a tidal ocean pool with a sandy, sloping entry that runs gently down toward the water. The pool is free to enter and open at all times, and the ocean flushes it rather than it being drained or cleaned on a roster. It sits on Cronulla Esplanade facing the mouth of the Hacking River, with views across to Jibbon and the Royal National Park. Oak Park is a smaller, less crowded alternative to nearby Shelly Beach.
Playground and Swings at Oak Park
Oak Park has a playground with a set of swings on its grounds. Seating is provided across the park, so parents and carers have somewhere to sit while children play. The playground is one of several facilities on the grounds, alongside the grassed area and barbecues. Because the playground sits within the same park as the ocean pool, a swim and a play session can happen in one visit.
Undercover Barbecue and Picnic Area at Oak Park
Oak Park has two undercover barbecues beside covered picnic tables on a large grassy area. Free public barbecues and shelters at Oak Park are available first come, first served. The grassy area gives picnic groups room to spread out, and the covered tables keep lunch dry in showery weather. These barbecues are the park's main cooking facility for groups who come to spend the day by the ocean pool.
Facilities at Oak Park
Visitor tips for Oak Park
- ✓Bring a portable gas barbecue, since fuel-fired barbecues using coal, wood or heat beads are not allowed.
- ✓No lifeguards patrol the ocean pool, so take extra care when swimming there.
- ✓Pool water sits around 18°C in July and August and 22–23°C in January, so pack a warm layer for cooler months.
Getting to Oak Park
156 Ewos Parade, Cronulla NSW 2230, on Cronulla Esplanade between Bass and Flinders Point and Shelley Park. On-street parking runs along Ewos Parade and can fill on good-weather weekends. An accessible pathway starts at the end of Jibbon Street beside the park, and Cronulla Train Station is close by.
Open in Google Maps →Nearby Cronulla
- 📍Shelly Beach
- 📍Shelley Park
- 📍Bass & Flinders Point
- 📍Royal National Park
- 📍Jibbon
- 📍Hacking River
Frequently asked questions about Oak Park
Is Oak Park in Cronulla good for dogs, and can I let my dog off-leash there?
Dogs must be kept on leash, and they are permitted in the grassed areas and on the walkway. Off-leash running is not permitted at Oak Park.
Are there BBQs and picnic tables at Oak Park in Cronulla?
Yes, Oak Park has two undercover barbecues and covered picnic tables on its large grassy area.
Can I book a picnic area or BBQ at Oak Park in Cronulla?
Free public barbecues and shelters at Oak Park are first come, first served. Visitors claim them on arrival.
Are there public toilets at Oak Park in Cronulla?
Yes, public toilets, changing facilities and showers are in the Oak Park Pavilion, and one of the toilets is accessible.
What are the opening hours for Oak Park in Cronulla?
The Oak Park Pool is open at all times and free to enter.