The Tanks is a rock formation along the Bicentennial Walk that forms a beautiful rock pool for fun family swimming and snorkelling.

The name “The Tanks” comes from a collection of steel ship’s tanks, which were located at this location during the construction of the Forster breakwall in the 1890's. The water tanks filled the steam engine trains which carried the quarried rocks from Bennetts Head to the present breakwall. For more details visit Click History Great Lakes.

At high tide The Tanks are full of water. As the tide falls it reveals the sand underneath the surface. The majority of the swimming area is protected by the incoming swell by the rock formations. The waves crashing over the rocks provide great entertainment for kids when swimming here.

To access The Tanks it is best to park along Head Street and walk through the reserve towards the ocean. There are picnic tables and public toilets close by as is Pebbly Beach with its park and BBQ facilities.

This location is not patrolled by lifesavers.