Shark Park (Ocean Protect Stadium): All You Need To Know

Shark Park - officially known as Ocean Protect Stadium as of 2026 - is the iconic coastal home of the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks. Located in Woolooware, New South Wales, just off Captain Cook Drive and around 45 minutes drive from the Sydney CBD, it is one of the game's beloved suburban rugby league grounds and a core part of the Sharks community.

Often remembered for freezing winter winds and torrential rain, the ground is somewhat of a fortress for the home side with Phil Gould famously labelling it, ‘the Bermuda Triangle of rugby league’, stating many great players and sides have visited over the years but failed to succeed. The ground features two lively, grass hill areas for general admission and three main grandstands - the Eastern (ET) Grandstand, the Peter Burns Stand alongside the Sharks Leagues Club, the smaller Monty Porter stand at the southern end. 

Rugby League in ‘God’s Country’

Originally known as Endeavour Field, Ocean Protect Stadium was purpose built for rugby league in 1960 and upgraded in 2006.  Over the decades its naming rights have changed numerous times - including Ronson Park, Toyota Stadium and PointsBet Stadium - though one stands out among fans… Shark Park 

The ground has had many memorable moments over the years, including Cameron Smith’s infamous sin binning, wild weather matches with crowds donning wetsuits and snorkels to combat the rain and of course housed the Cronulla Sharks inaugural premiership celebrations in 2016. The ground remains a close-knit, community-focused venue with passionate fans packing the stands and hillside for Sharks home games.

Best places for a pre-game drink

Hairyman Brewery - A locally owned craft brewery with a full brewery and cellar bar pouring a rotating list of core, seasonal and limited-release beers. A favourite with Sharks fans on game day thanks to its authentic brewery atmosphere and food trucks and plenty of space to settle in before kick-off. What sets it apart is a little-known fence near the brewery that opens onto the mangrove walking track, delivering a direct walk to Shark Park,  a must for anyone attending the ground. 

Northies Cronulla Hotel – The infamous Northies Hotel has been the demise of many a rugby league name, but it remains a hotspot for players and fans alike. This long-standing Shire favourite comes to life on game days with lively bars, a great atmosphere and plenty of mad Sharks fans. 

Sharks Leagues Club – They said waiting Sharks to win their first premiership was like leaving the porch light on for Harold Holt. Having been closed since 2019, waiting for the league's club to reopen must be beginning to feel the same for Cronulla locals. The latest on the club’s reopening indicates mid-late 2026 for ribbon cutting… We wait with baited breath. 

Cronulla RSL – A classic coastal RSL perfect for a pre-match steak and a few drinks. Well-priced food, large bars and easy access to public transport make it a convenient stop before heading to Shark Park, particularly for fans arriving via Cronulla Station.

Getting there 

By Public Transport

The nearest rail stations are Woolooware and Cronulla on the T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line. The Sharks and Transport NSW run a free shuttle bus loop. Shuttle buses operate from Cronulla, Woolooware and Caringbah stations before and after games.

By Car 

Parking is limited around the ground, though it is possible to get one if you are prepared to walk and/or arrive early. Rideshare drop offs are easily managed. 

Game Day 

Food & Drinks

Food and beverage at Ocean Protect is geared toward classic, crowd-friendly game-day fare, with outlets located around the concourse and within key seating areas.

Fans can enjoy a variety of food and drink options. Highlights include fresh and healthy burritos and tacos from the Zambrero food truck, alongside pizza, hot chips, hot dogs, coffee, donuts, and more. A selection of quality food trucks will be stationed on the Family Hill, the western concourse, and near the big screen on the eastern side of the stadium.

Multiple bars around the venue serve alcoholic beverages throughout the match.

Merchandise

Official Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks merchandise is available seven days a week from the dedicated Sharks Store in Bay Central Woolooware which operates extended hours on game days. There are also a number of merchandise outlets located through the stadium on game day. 

Accessibility

Shark Park is accessible for patrons with mobility needs, offering: accessible seating areas, ramps and lifts where required and accessible bathrooms. Event staff are also positioned throughout the venue to assist on game day.

Payment

Shark Park is a cashless stadium.

Post-Match

Cronulla & Woolooware

After full-time, most fans stay local. Cronulla and Woolooware offer a strong mix of pubs, casual bars and eateries, many within walking distance of the stadium - ideal for a relaxed post-match drink or feed.

North Cronulla

A short walk or ride away, North Cronulla is popular for those wanting to keep the night going, with beachside pubs, bars and late-night food options.

The Morning After

For recovery mode, Cronulla’s café strip is packed with quality coffee spots, bakeries and brunch venues - perfect for a feed and debrief the next morning.