Fees · Destination Guide
South West Rocks Australia
Shark and cave diving at Fish Rock, with national parks on your doorstep
Updated Jan 23, 2026 • 16 sources
Fees And Permits
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
Fees You Can't Skip
- Trial Bay Gaol entry fee - Adult $11, Concession $8, Child (5-15) $5, Family $30
- Hat Head National Park vehicle entry fee - $8 per vehicle per day
- Typical payment pattern: South West Rocks does not have a destinationwide marine park tag or tourism levy for recreational divers.
What people usually pay
South West Rocks does not have a destination-wide marine park tag or tourism levy for recreational divers. Most costs are trip basics (charters, gear rental, accommodation) plus a few site-specific fees.
- National park day-use fees apply in some areas (for example Hat Head National Park).
- Trial Bay Gaol has a paid entry.
- If you plan to fish or spearfish, you will likely need a NSW Recreational Fishing Fee and you must follow grey nurse shark habitat restrictions.
| Fee | Amount | Applies to | Where to pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trial Bay Gaol entry fee | Adult $11, Concession $8, Child (5-15) $5, Family $30 Day entry | Visitors entering Trial Bay Gaol historic site | NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (on site or online) | Prices can change. Check the official Trial Bay Gaol visitor page before you go, especially for guided tour times and event dates. |
| Hat Head National Park vehicle entry fee | $8 per vehicle per day Day entry (vehicle access) | Drivers entering fee areas of Hat Head National Park | NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (pay stations / online) | Fees apply in some car parks and precincts. Follow signage and keep your receipt visible. |
| NSW Recreational Fishing Fee (includes spearfishing) | $7 (3 days), $14 (1 month), $35 (1 year), $85 (3 years) As purchased | Anglers and spearfishers in NSW waters (where required) | Service NSW (online or in person) and other approved outlets | Separate local restrictions apply at grey nurse shark critical habitat and aggregation sites, including bait fishing bans and spearfishing limits around Fish Rock. |
| Commercial marine park permit (operator requirement) | Permit required (fees vary) Per permit conditions | Commercial diving charters and guides operating in NSW marine parks | NSW Marine Parks Authority / Marine Estate permits | Visitors usually do not purchase this directly, but it is a good sign when operators reference marine park compliance and mooring use in briefings. |