Nestled in the heart of the Great Lakes region, the Rock to Rock is one of NSW’s most scenic and soul-soothing ocean swims. Held every Easter Sunday at the beautifully protected Elizabeth Beach, this event is as much about the vibe as the swim itself, family-friendly, community-led, and surrounded by untouched coastal beauty.
The 600m Mini Rock is perfect for beginners, kids, and cruisy swimmers looking to get a taste of the ocean, while the 1.5km Rock to Rock is a stunning loop between two dramatic rocky headlands that frame the beach like a natural amphitheatre. You’ll swim in clear, turquoise water, often shared with dolphins, over white sand and reef, with the sun sparkling on the surface and nothing but good vibes on shore.
It’s an event that brings locals and holiday-makers together, with plenty of space to stretch out, cheer each other on, and soak up that Easter long weekend magic. Whether it’s your first ocean swim or your annual must-do, the Rock to Rock delivers the goods, salty, scenic, and seriously good for the soul.
Elizabeth Beach is a protected bay with a gentle slope and reliable conditions. The beach is patrolled and ideal for all levels of ocean swimmer. Water temps in April usually sit around 22–24°C, and the surf is often calm thanks to the headland protection.
The location is great for spectators, with grassy space and picnic spots near the start/finish area.
Wetsuits are allowed. The Mini Rock is beginner-friendly, while the Rock to Rock suits swimmers with a bit more confidence in open water. Lifesavers and board paddlers are stationed throughout the swim course.
8:30-10:00 am: Registration & late entries opens (Pacific Palms SLSC)
10:30 am: Mandatory safety briefing for 600m swim
11:00am: Mini Rock 600m swim start
11:30 am: Mandatory safety briefing for 1.5km swim
12:00 pm: Rock To Rock 1.5km swim start
2:00 pm: Prizegiving (Pacific Palms SLSC)
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Elizabeth Beach is tucked into the beautiful Pacific Palms region, just a short drive from Forster and a touch over 3 hours from Sydney, making it the perfect day trip or long weekend escape.
With the Mini Rock kicking off at 11 am and the Rock to Rock main event starting at 12 pm, it’s completely doable as a day trip from Sydney or Newcastle. And here’s the bonus: Easter Sunday traffic is usually light, most holiday-makers are already away, and not yet heading home. It’s a smooth run on the Pacific Highway, and the Lakes Way turn-off just north of Bulahdelah takes you right into coastal paradise.
Parking is available in the car park west of the Pacific Palms SLSC clubhouse, but it can fill quickly on a sunny long weekend, so arrive early if you’re travelling in on the day.
Public transport is also an option with a bit of planning. You can take a train from Sydney Central to Broadmeadow Station (Newcastle), then connect via bus toward the Pacific Palms / Forster area. Services are limited, especially on public holidays, so be sure to check the latest timetables and plan ahead if you’re going car-free.
Better yet, make a weekend of it; there are plenty of accommodation options, from beach cottages and family-friendly motels to campgrounds nestled among the palms. It’s the kind of place that’s worth slowing down for, whether you’re swimming, spectating, or just soaking up the salty air.
The Rock to Rock Swim isn’t just about the splash; it’s the perfect excuse to pause, unplug, and soak up everything the Pacific Palms region has to offer.
After your swim, pack a picnic and stretch out on the grass at Elizabeth Beach, or take a short drive to Blueys or Boomerang Beach for a post-swim wander and a bite with a view. These nearby gems offer stunning coastline, casual cafes, and that laid-back, sandy-feet vibe you won’t want to leave.
Craving something fresh and tasty? Swing by Kembali Café for a post-swim smoothie, juice, or nourishing brunch. It’s a local favourite for a reason, plus, the outdoor seating makes it perfect for sun-soaked swimmers to refuel and relax.
If you’re making a weekend of it (and you should), don’t miss Wallingat National Park. Just inland, it’s packed with walking trails, scenic lookouts, and peaceful forest spots to explore, ideal for stretching the legs after your ocean effort or just finding a quiet place to breathe.
Whether you’re here for the day or staying the whole Easter weekend, this swim is your golden ticket to a coastal reset. Beautiful beaches, good food, and nature on all sides, what more could you want?
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