11 Best Snorkelling Spots In Sydney

Explore a vibrant collection of coral reefs and underwater marine life with the most exhilarating snorkelling in Sydney.

Forget the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney’s coastline is peppered with world-class waters that demand a mask and fins. From enormous schools of fish and spectacular sponge gardens to sea turtles and the odd wobbegong, snorkelling in Sydney rivals anything you’d find on an overseas holiday.

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1. Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, Manly

What it offers: At least 160 fish species spanning tropical, protected (like sea dragons) and temperate varieties.

Getting there: Walk over from the southern end of Manly Beach along its scenic walkway. If you’re driving, secure a spot at the ticketed Shelly Beach car park.

a signage of Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, Manly — Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve is located off the northern coast of Sydney. (Image: Destination NSW)

Being a fully protected aquatic reserve has its benefits and Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve near Shelly Beach has reaped the rewards after a decade of sanctuary.

an aerial view of Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, Manly — Appreciate the beauty underneath Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve. (Image: Destination NSW)

Sheltered from the ocean swell on most days, this epic spot to go snorkelling in Sydney provides serious diversity with everything from large schools of mullet and trevally to small harmless sharks such as dusky whalers and wobbegongs. You might even see a hawksbill turtle if you’re lucky.

a freediver diving beneath Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve — Lush underwater sanctuaries at Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve will take your breath away. (Image: Destination NSW)

On Shelly Beach itself you’ll find bathrooms, showers and electric barbecues plus The Boathouse Shelly Beach , which dishes up a delicious breakfast and lunch and a range of killer cocktails. If you fancy sitting back and letting an expert take the lead out there, try Eco Treasures who offer a two-hour guided snorkelling tour that includes a nature walk and all your gear.

a crested horn shark at Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, Manly — Stumble upon a crested horn shark. (Image: Destination NSW)

2. Clovelly Beach, Clovelly

What it offers: Sensational snorkelling for beginners due to its protected waters, plus plenty of gropers and young fish varieties, rock lobsters and prawns.

Getting there: There’s free on-street parking around the beach in addition to a carpark on the southern side that’s about 100 metres from the water.

an aerial view of Clovelly Beach, Clovelly — Clovelly Beach is one of Sydney’s best kept secrets.

The underwater topography is quite dramatic under the lip of the Clovelly Ocean Pool’s edge, located on the southern side of this hot spot. Big boulders harbour giant cuttlefish and sponges.

waves crashing to rocky ridges on Clovelly Beach — Walk along the edge of the rocky ridges at Clovelly Beach. (Image: Andy Wang)

If you’re up for a bit of a journey (strong swimmers only and only attempt when glassily flat), you can explore more of the Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve by snorkelling around the point to Gordons Bay. Along the way, you might come face to face with the region’s famous 1.2-metre blue grouper Bluey.

boats moored at Gordons Bay, Coogee — Take a break away from the city noise at Gordons Bay. (Image: Destination NSW)

Clovelly is a reassuring place for novices and there’s great facilities nearby including Sea Salt , a cafe steaming up great coffee, food and booze, picnic tables, a toilet block and showers.

a scenic view of Clovelly Beach — Bask in tranquility at Clovelly Beach. (Image: Andy Wang)

3. Fairlight Beach, Fairlight

What it offers: Beginner level snorkelling due to its shallow slope from the beach towards the water making it super easy to enter. There’s also sea slugs and a variety of fish species.

Getting there: There’s limited street parking on Woods Parade. Otherwise, walking from Manly Wharf along Fairlight Walk takes just under 15 minutes.

a view of Fairlight Rock Pool, Fairlight Beach, Fairlight — Plunge into the Fairlight Rock Pool next to the beach.

Being so close to the shore, the long, protected reef on the North Harbour side of Manly makes Fairlight a great introduction to snorkelling for kids. You can swim out a fair distance and still be in three or four feet of water before the shelf ultimately drops off. Look out for kelp fish and John Dory. Snorkelling is at its best in the morning and afternoon with a favourable northerly wind.

There are showers and toilets on the beach, plus there’s an ocean pool to relax in once you’re done bobbing for sea life.

panoramic views of Fairlight Beach from Balgowlah Heights — Balgowlah Heights offers panoramic views of Fairlight Beach.

4. The Basin Campground, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

What it offers: An inland lagoon filled with calm conditions and an array of fish and sea life.

Getting there: You can bushwalk in from West Head Carpark and camp at the Basin or get the ferry across from Palm Beach.

Avoid the crowds and head to The Basin Campground on the eastern shores of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park on Pittwater. Upstream, the estuary is protected by a shark net so you can watch the tides go in and out along the seagrass beds with little worry. There are plenty of smaller tropical species in the warmer months but also keep your eyes peeled for seahorses, small cuttlefish and schools of rays.

The campground sells ice and firewood if you choose to stay overnight at this Sydney snorkelling winner and there’s also toilets, cold showers, picnic tables and barbecues to take advantage of while you’re visiting.

The Basin at Pittwater in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park — Admire underwater sceneries at the inland lagoon of The Basin Campground. (Image: Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW)

5. Bare Island, La Perouse

What it offers: Shallow depths and awesome visibility that attract eager divers, plus rarer fish species including pineapple fish and red Indian fish, and octopus.

Getting there: It’s located at the south end of Anzac Parade and there’s street parking but be prepared to lug your gear down to the water because it’s not exactly close.

an aerial view of Blak Markets on Bare Island, La Perouse — Traverse the stilted walkway to Blak Markets on Bare Island, La Perouse. (Image: Destination NSW)

You might recognise Bare Island from Mission: Impossible 2 (that motorbike zooming onto the island scene) but snorkelling here is a much more calming experience.

In its tranquil conditions, nooks around the island’s less-exposed coves are ideal for both beginners and the more experienced. On any one day you might come across sea slugs, sponge gardens and pineapple fish or perhaps an octopus or two. Keep an eye out for one of the resident turtles, though they’re hard to spot.

What you will always find, however, are shops, a children’s playground and public toilets right near the island.

an aerial view of Bare Island, La Perouse — Spot resident turtles on Bare Island, La Perouse. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Kamay Botany Bay National Park, Kurnell, Botany Bay

What it offers: Stingray spotting plus sea dragons, seahorses, octopuses and a variety of fish species.

Getting there: Once you get to the Kamay Botany Bay National Park, which offers plenty of parking, walk north along the beach until you arrive at Captain Cook’s Landing Place near Silver Beach.

colourful coral reefs in Kurnell, Sydney — See colourful coral reefs beneath the calm waters of Kurnell. (Image: Destination NSW)

At Botany Bay’s southern entrance, Kurnell is perhaps the most underrated snorkelling location in Sydney, harbouring the largest congregation of weedy sea dragons, which looks a lot like a seahorse, in Australia.

a weedy seadragon located in coastal waters off Kurnell in South Sydney — Kurnell is home to diverse marine species like weedy sea dragons. (Image: Destination NSW)

Captain Cook’s first stomping ground is one of the most diverse underwater communities on the city’s coast, home to moray eels, Port Jackson sharks and loads more. Occasionally, you may be surprised by an Antarctic fur seal or two, too.

a blue groper in coastal waters off Kurnell, Sydney — Dive into the depths of Kurnell to spot more sea creatures. (Image: Destination NSW)

Try Silver Beach for an easy entry point. There are a bunch of cafes and restaurants to be found along Captain Cook Drive which is within walking distance from Captain Cook’s Landing Place.

an aerial view of Kamay Botany Bay National Park, Kurnell, Botany Bay — Explore beneath the vast seascape of Kamay Botany Bay National Park, Kurnell. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Freshwater Beach, Freshwater

What it offers: Blue gropers, large schools of fish and other fish varieties.

Getting there: A walk north up the hill from Manly, Freshwater Beach is found on Ocean View Road and there’s a carpark plus some street parking.

an overhead shot of Freshwater Beach, Freshwater — Witness the ripples gently hitting the rocks on Freshwater Beach. (Image: Aaron Birch)

There’s really nice snorkelling off Freshy but the caveat is that you really have to check sea conditions to make sure waves aren’t breaking heavily on the rocks. Look out for a southerly, too.

When it’s calm, park up in the car park, stroll down to the beach and walk around the swimming pool and enter at the inflow (keep the rocks to your left). There are loads of schooling fish such as king fish to keep you focused.

There are public toilets at the beach plus an eight-lane saltwater ocean pool at the north end. You’ll also find a feed at one of the cafes that overlook the beach.

an aerial view of beachgoers on Freshwater Beach, Freshwater — Laze around the cream-coloured sand of Freshwater Beach. (Image: Adam Krowitz)

8. Chowder Bay at Clifton Gardens Reserve, Mosman

What it offers: Decorator crabs and sponges plus loads of fish species, seahorses, barnacles and oysters.

Getting there: Travel by car and park along Chowder Bay Road to avoid having to pay for metered parking at the public car park at Clifton Gardens.

A colourful world of underwater life can be found shacked up along the jetty, sea floor and pylons at Chowder Bay, accessible via Clifton Gardens Reserve. Navigate its slow-paced waters to spot decorator crabs, Eastern Fiddler Rays, large schools of fish, two species of seahorses and the zebra-striped Old Wife Fish.

There’s also a bunch of shellfish to sniff out. Once you’re done, take a carefree dip in the netted area, one of Sydney’s best secret swimming spots. You’ll also find a children’s playground, toilet block and barbecues in the area.

9. Malabar Beach, Malabar

What it offers: Two shipwrecks, octopuses, a smorgasbord of fish species and the occasional ray.

Getting there: There’s some street parking along Dacre Street and Bay Parade but if you can’t find a spot, try the parking bay on Fisherman’s Drive.

a pathway at Malabar Headland National Park Coastal Walk — Follow beach route from Malabar Headland National Park Coastal Walk.

Protected by cliffs at either ends, Malabar Beach offers family-friendly snorkelling in Sydney. It also draws the diving crowd thanks to its two individual shipwrecks which crashed in 1931 and 1955. While diving does offer the ultimate vantage point, snorkelling can provide glimpses of the historical sites.

But if it’s action you seek, you’ll be far more impressed by the vivid sea life dotted with fish and larger scene-stealers. Change rooms, public toilets, showers and a fenced playground are all located nearby.

sunset views on Malabar Beach, Malabar — Fiery hues paint the sky over Malabar Beach.

10. Oak Park, Cronulla

What it offers: Gropers, cuttlefish, octopuses and a variety of rays — if you’re lucky.

Getting there: There’s on-street parking along Ewos Parade. Once you’ve found a spot, head down the Esplanade Walkway on the Cronulla Peninsula.

As pretty as Oak Park is, flipper straight towards the crescent-shaped wall to find some of the best snorkelling in Sydney.

You’ll lose yourself in the fascinating sponge gardens as well as a plethora of vividly hued fish species. Stay alert for rays too, though they’re quite challenging to find (making it all the more fun), and don’t be surprised to catch a groper shuffling at your tail.

The park itself features public toilets, barbecues, a small playground, showers and change rooms.

11. Wattamolla Beach, Royal National Park

What it offers: A picture-perfect waterfall as an idyllic backdrop plus schools of fish, Port Jackson sharks and a rainbow of sponges.

Getting there: Once you’re in the Royal National Park, follow the signs to the Wattamolla Beach parking areas. It’s about a 400-metre walk to the water from there.

people enjoying at Wattamolla Beach, Royal National Park — Go frolicking on Wattamolla Beach. (Image: Dee Kramer Photography)

Snorkelling in Sydney doesn’t get much prettier than this. Wattamolla Beach at the southern tip of the city offers still, clear waters in a sheltered lagoon for novices to explore.

Got plenty of experience under your belt? Venture further into the ocean as you hunt for harmless wobbegong and Port Jackson sharks, rays and a myriad of brightly coloured sponges and sea squirts. Make a day of it by bringing lunch and enjoying it in the nearby picnic area where you’ll find barbecues and toilets.

people enjoying swimming at Wattamolla, Royal National Park S — Have a picnic with your family at Wattamolla Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

Keep reading our epic list of things to do in Sydney for more inspiration.

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

The 11 best snorkelling spots in Sydney