Good news for Eastern Suburbs families! Coogee and Maroubra beaches have reopened for swimming following temporary closures associated with a juvenile whale carcass at nearby Lurline Bay.
With warmer weather arriving and families looking forward to spending more time at the beach, the reopening is welcome news for local swimmers.
However, there are still some important restrictions in place, particularly around Lurline Bay.
Here’s what parents need to know before packing the beach bag and heading out with the kids.
Can Families Swim at Coogee Beach Again?
Yes! Coogee Beach has reopened for swimming.
Randwick City Council confirmed on 23 October 2026 that lifeguards had assessed the situation and decided swimming could resume.
The juvenile whale carcass remains wedged among rocks at Lurline Bay, but its location is sufficiently far from Coogee Beach for lifeguards to permit swimming in the designated area.
Families are reminded to swim between the red and yellow flags, where lifeguards are supervising the water.
As always, keep young children within arm’s reach when they’re in or near the water.
What About Maroubra Beach?
Maroubra Beach has also reopened, but swimming is restricted to a smaller area.
According to Council’s announcement, lifeguards have established a small flagged swimming area directly in front of the Maroubra Lifeguard office.
Families planning a visit should follow lifeguard instructions and avoid swimming outside the designated area.
This is particularly important when visiting with children, as beach conditions and swimming restrictions can change throughout the day.
Why Is Lurline Bay Still Closed?
The juvenile whale carcass remains lodged among rocks at Lurline Bay, between Coogee and Maroubra.
Authorities had hoped that overnight high tides would move the carcass back out to sea, but unfortunately that hasn’t happened.
The immediate area remains barricaded, and families are strongly advised not to enter the water or approach the carcass.
A decomposing whale carcass can create health and safety concerns, while potentially attracting sharks and other marine animals.
Even if children are curious about the whale, this isn’t somewhere to visit for a closer look. Please respect the barriers and keep a safe distance.
What Happens to the Whale Now?
Randwick City Council is working with the Gamay Rangers, La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council and the NSW Government to determine the most appropriate way to manage the situation.
The response needs to consider environmental conditions, public safety and the cultural significance of whales to the local Aboriginal community.
For families with curious children, the incident can also be an opportunity to talk about marine life, the natural life cycle of whales and why protecting our ocean environment is so important.
Before You Head to the Beach With the Kids
Based on Randwick City Council’s announcement of 23 October 2026:
- Coogee Beach: Reopened for swimming between the flags.
- Maroubra Beach: Reopened with a small designated swimming area in front of the lifeguard office.
- Lurline Bay: Remains restricted. Stay away from the whale carcass and do not enter the water nearby.
It’s great to see our local beaches welcoming swimmers again, but remember that ocean conditions can change quickly.
Always check the flags, listen to lifeguards and supervise children closely around the water.
IMPORTANT: Check Randwick City Council for the Latest Beach Updates
The information in this article is based on Randwick City Council’s announcement dated 23 October 2026. Beach closures, swimming restrictions and safety conditions may change at any time.
Before visiting Coogee Beach, Maroubra Beach or the surrounding coastline, please refer to the official Randwick City Council website for the most up-to-date information and safety advice.
Official website: www.randwick.nsw.gov.au
Always follow the directions of Council lifeguards and any safety signage or barriers at the beach.
Source: Randwick City Council, 23 October 2026.
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