Jack Vanny Reserve

Jack Vanny Reserve Review ​Overall Rating: Very Good (Highly recommended for coastal walks, swimming, and scenic outlooks). ​Key Highlights ​Breathtaking Coastal Views: Situated on the northern headland of Maroubra Beach, the reserve offers panoramic views of the entire beach to the south and the beautiful Lurline Bay to the north. It's a fantastic spot for photography and simply enjoying the grand Pacific Ocean horizon. ​Mahon Pool Access: The reserve acts as the entry point to the spectacular Mahon Pool—a large, natural ocean rock pool carved into the rock flat below the cliffs. It's often cited as a safer and calmer alternative for swimming than the powerful surf of Maroubra Beach, making it great for families and lap swimmers. Steep steps lead down to the pool from the reserve. ​Coastal Walkway Link: Jack Vanny Reserve forms a scenic part of the Eastern Beaches Coastal Walk. The trail through the reserve features interesting rock formations and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. ​Whale Watching: During the annual migration season (typically June-July for the northward journey, and September-October for the return), the reserve's elevated position makes it a prime lookout for spotting Humpback and Southern Right Whales close to the shore. ​Facilities and Amenities ​The facilities are generally well-maintained and cater well to visitors: ​Public Amenities: Clean toilets, showers, and change rooms are available on the cliff overlooking Mahon Pool. ​Accessibility: The area includes a wheelchair-accessible entrance and accessible parking, which enhances convenience. ​Parking: Off-street car parking is available at the reserve, located on Marine Parade. ​Other Features: Picnic tables, park seating, and bubblers (drinking fountains) are available for public use. ​Nearby Cafes: A cafe is conveniently located across the road from the reserve, perfect for a post-swim coffee or snack. ​Tips for Visitors ​Safety: The reserve is on a cliff edge with exposed rock outcrops. Visitors, especially those with mobility issues or children, should navigate carefully near the edges and along the shorelines. ​Ocean Caution: While Mahon Pool is sheltered, the swell can still occasionally encroach on the bathing experience. Always be mindful of the ocean conditions. ​Best Time to Visit: Sunrises and sunsets offer particularly beautiful views, and late morning/early afternoon are often the best times to spot whales during migration season.

This was at Maroubar beach. We went to enjoy a day. It was my daughter's first time at this beach. We had fish & chips and an ice cream. We were able to see a whale which was a pleasant surprise even though it was very far away. There is plenty of parking even though we came at noon. The beach was full of people but not crowed.

Got there around 630pm and left at 8pm. Ample parking. Facilities are much nicer than a lot of other beaches. Very clean. Not too busy either. Was nice to go there later in the evening. Nice and cool.

One of the best spots at Maroubra beach. There is outdoor parking, but since it's a popular area it can be quite busy. Sometimes you can find a space facing the water, a great way to enjoy the view away from the elements. There is a nice cafe across the road where you can get a coffee or some food. Jack Vanny reserve has some, but not alot of grass area, there is a picnic table available and a couple of benches overlooking the ocean. Mainly people come here for the rockpool, great place to hang out during the warmer months or go for a quick dip or a few laps. There is a clean public toilet there too. At certain times of the year, whales can also be spotted from here.

Beautiful spot to view Maroubra Brach and Mahon Pool. Great sea breeze to cool down.