Sydney has numerous beautiful beaches along its shoreline. Not every beach is a good snorkelling location however. Several factors such as variety in ecological environment, proximity to the open ocean, accessibility and safety all play a role.
Scroll down to discover what our top 5 picks for snorkelling around Sydney are, and why they made it on this list.
Shelly Beach and Cabbage Tree Bay Reserve
Snorkelling near Shelly Beach offers a mesmerising underwater experience, where the clear, calm waters serve as a window to a vibrant marine world. The beach’s unique location, protected from the open ocean, provides an ideal environment for both novice and experienced snorkelers to explore its underwater treasures.
The underwater terrain varies from rocky reefs to gently swaying seagrass, creating a diverse habitat for a variety of marine life, including sea stars, cuttlefish, and small sharks. With the sun filtering through the water, illuminating the aquatic landscape in a spectrum of light, snorkelling at Shelly Beach is not just a swim, but an immersion in a breathtakingly beautiful aquatic ecosystem. While parking near Shelly Beach can be very challenging it remains the prime location for snorkelling in Sydney.
Read our detailed review of Shelly Beach for more.
Snorkelling in Gordons Bay
This secluded bay, nestled along the coastline, boasts exceptionally clear waters, making it a haven for snorkelling enthusiasts. The bay, famous for its underwater nature trail, guides snorkelers through a diverse array of marine habitats. They encounter an array of sea life, from schools of small, shimmering fish to larger, curious creatures like octopuses and rays, which often make a graceful appearance.
The seabed, dotted with colorful coral formations and swaying sea plants, creates a vibrant backdrop. The calm and relatively shallow waters of Gordons Bay make it an ideal spot for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers, offering a peaceful yet exhilarating experience, where the wonders of marine life can be appreciated in their natural, unspoiled environment.
Find out more about snorkelling in Gordons Bay.
Little Bay Snorkelling
Snorkeling in Little Bay offers a unique and tranquil underwater experience, set against the backdrop of one of the area’s most picturesque and less frequented beaches. This hidden gem, with its clear and calm waters, is a sanctuary for a diverse range of marine life.
The bay’s rocky outcrops and small reefs provide a habitat for a variety of sea creatures, including starfish, sea urchins, and anemones, making it a fantastic spot for underwater photography. The gentle slopes of the seabed make it accessible for snorkelers of all skill levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Surrounded by natural beauty both above and below the water, snorkeling in Little Bay is not just an activity, but a serene escape into the wonders of the aquatic world.
Find out more about Snorkelling in Little Bay.
Freshwater Beach and Queenscliff Bay
Snorkeling in Queenscliff Bay is ideal for those seeking both accessibility and a rich marine experience close to Sydney. The bay’s waters are typically calm and clear, making it a safe choice for beginners, yet it offers enough diversity to intrigue experienced snorkelers. Entry into the water is straightforward from the beach, with the best snorkeling spots located on the left hand side when facing the ocean.
The bay teeming with marine life, including local fish species, and provide opportunities for close encounters with sea life in relatively shallow water. Visibility is usually high, especially during the morning hours when the sun is at an optimal angle. The bay is also known for its changing tides, so it’s recommended to check tidal conditions before planning your snorkelling trip. Additionally, parking can be limited during peak times, so an early start is often best to secure a spot and enjoy quieter snorkelling conditions.
Find all details about Freshwater and Little here.
Malabar Beach
Snorkeling at Malabar Beach, located in the quieter, southern part of Sydney, offers a serene and somewhat unique underwater experience. The beach, protected within Long Bay, has calmer waters than many of Sydney’s other beaches, making it one of the best places for snorkelling in Sydney for beginners.
The key snorkeling spots are towards the northern end of the beach, near the rocks where the aquatic life is most abundant. Here, snorkelers can expect to see a variety of fish species, such as luderick, bream, and the occasional groper, along with various types of seaweed and kelp that create a rich underwater tapestry. The area is also known for its cleaner waters due to lesser footfall and boat traffic.
Visibility can vary, but it’s generally better on calm days with less wind. It’s important to be aware of the local conditions, as the currents can change, especially near the rocky areas. Facilities at Malabar Beach include easy parking and nearby cafes, but it’s advisable to bring your own snorkeling gear as rental options are limited. This beach is also a part of the Kamay Botany Bay National Park, which has helped in preserving its natural beauty and ecological integrity.
See our Snorkelling at Malabar Beach page for more.
What next?
Once you’ve explored all of these opportunities for the best snorkelling in Sydney, it’s time to explore a bit further afield. There are great locations both the north and south. Have a look the these articles to see where you can go, either north or south. Happy snorkelling!
