The beach is named after the Susan Gilmore, a ship that was wrecked on the rocks at this specific location in 1884.
The beach's unique pebble-heavy shoreline is the result of natural erosion of the surrounding Permian sedimentary rock cliffs.
Because it is sheltered by high cliffs on three sides, it creates a 'micro-climate' that is often significantly windier than the main Newcastle beaches.
The cove is technically part of the Newcastle coastline's 'bathers way,' but it is the only section where the coastal path remains high above the waterline rather than following the sand.
Susan Gilmore Beach is a secluded, narrow cove located at the southern base of the cliffs beneath the Strzelecki Lookout in Newcastle. It is geographically isolated from the neighboring Bar Beach and Dixon Park Beach by a rocky headland that is impassable at high tide. The beach features a mixture of sand and large, smooth pebbles, with strong surf conditions that make it unsuitable for inexperienced swimmers. Access requires navigating a steep, informal track from the Memorial Drive cliff top. Due to its position, the beach receives limited direct sunlight during late afternoon hours as the sun dips behind the high sandstone cliffs. It remains one of the few dog-friendly beaches in the immediate Newcastle coastal area, provided dogs remain on a leash at all times. The cove is not patrolled by lifeguards, necessitating extreme caution regarding current and rip activity.
From the top of the cliff-side path looking down towards the cove to capture the contrast between the narrow beach and the expansive ocean.
Wear sturdy footwear with grip to navigate the steep, uneven track down to the sand.
Check the tide charts before visiting; high tide makes the beach virtually disappear and traps visitors against the cliff face.
Bring your own water and supplies, as there are no amenities, toilets, or water stations located on the beach itself.
Do not attempt to swim here if the swell is high, as the lack of lifeguard supervision makes rescue extremely difficult.
Leash dogs at all times, carry out all trash as there are no bins, and respect the natural cliff stability by avoiding off-trail scrambling.
