The best snorkelling spots in Sydney in 2026, including reefs, marine life, and how to get there, from Shelly Beach to Goat Island and
Lifestyle Desk is a contributing writer covering lifestyle and public affairs for The Sydney Times.
Shelly Beach in Manly is the best snorkelling spot in the Sydney metropolitan area. The beach is sheltered by a headland and has calm water year-round. The sea floor is rocky and has a range of marine life, including seaweeds, cuttlefish, octopus, and small fish. The beach has a sea pool and a kiosk. The beach is accessible by ferry from Circular Quay or by bus. The beach is suitable for beginners and experienced snorkellers.
Goat Island in Sydney Harbour is a small island with a sheltered beach and a rocky reef. The reef has a range of marine life, including seaweeds, anemones, and small fish. The island is accessible by ferry from Circular Quay. The ferry runs every 30 minutes during the week and every 15 minutes on weekends. The island has a walking track that circles the island and has views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney CBD. The beach is suitable for beginners and experienced snorkellers.
Bare Island in La Perouse is a small island with a rocky reef and a sandy beach. The reef has a range of marine life, including seaweeds, cuttlefish, octopus, and small fish. The island is accessible by foot from the La Perouse peninsula. The walk takes approximately 10 minutes. The beach is suitable for beginners and experienced snorkellers.
Balmoral Beach in Mosman is a sheltered beach with a rocky reef and a sandy beach. The reef has a range of marine life, including seaweeds, anemones, and small fish. The beach is accessible by ferry from Circular Quay or by bus. The beach is suitable for beginners and experienced snorkellers.
Clontarf Beach in Clontarf is a sheltered beach with a rocky reef and a sandy beach. The reef has a range of marine life, including seaweeds, anemones, and small fish. The beach is accessible by bus from the CBD. The beach is suitable for beginners and experienced snorkellers.
Watsons Bay in Watsons Bay is a sheltered beach with a rocky reef and a sandy beach. The reef has a range of marine life, including seaweeds, anemones, and small fish. The beach is accessible by ferry from Circular Quay or by bus. The beach is suitable for beginners and experienced snorkellers.
The marine life in Sydney Harbour and the surrounding waters is diverse and includes:
Seaweeds. Sydney has more than 300 species of seaweed, including kelp, crayweed, and Neptune's necklace. The seaweeds provide habitat for a range of marine animals.
Fish. Sydney has more than 500 species of fish, including luderick, bream, tailor, and kingfish. The fish are most abundant in the rocky reefs and the kelp beds.
Cuttlefish. Cuttlefish are common in Sydney Harbour and are often seen by snorkellers. Cuttlefish are masters of camouflage and can change colour and texture to blend in with their surroundings.
Octopus. Octopus are common in Sydney Harbour and are often seen by snorkellers. Octopus are masters of camouflage and can change colour and texture to blend in with their surroundings.
Seahorses. Seahorses are found in the seagrass beds and the rocky reefs in Sydney Harbour. Seahorses are small and are difficult to spot, but they are a highlight for snorkellers.
Weedy seadragons. Weedy seadragons are found in the rocky reefs and the seagrass beds in Sydney Harbour. Weedy seadragons are large and are easy to spot. They are a highlight for snorkellers.
Snorkelling in Sydney is generally safe, but there are some risks to be aware of:
Rip currents. Rip currents are strong currents that flow from the shore out to sea. Rips are the leading cause of drownings on Australian beaches. The safest way to avoid rips is to snorkel in a sheltered bay or beach where the water is calm.
Jellyfish. Jellyfish are common in Sydney Harbour in summer. The most common jellyfish is the bluebottle, which has a painful sting. The best way to avoid jellyfish stings is to wear a stinger suit or to snorkel in winter, when jellyfish are less common.
Sharks. Sharks are rare in Sydney Harbour, but there have been sightings of sharks in the harbour. The best way to avoid sharks is to snorkel in groups and to avoid snorkelling at dawn or dusk, when sharks are most active.
Boat traffic. Boat traffic is a risk at some snorkelling spots, particularly Goat Island and Watsons Bay. The best way to avoid boat traffic is to snorkel in sheltered bays and to stay close to the shore.
To snorkel in Sydney, you need the following equipment:
Mask. A mask allows you to see underwater. Choose a mask that fits your face comfortably and does not leak. Test the mask before you buy it by placing it on your face and inhaling through your nose. If the mask stays on your face without you holding it, it fits correctly.
Snorkel. A snorkel allows you to breathe while you are face down in the water. Choose a snorkel that is the right length for your height. A snorkel that is too long will be difficult to breathe through, and a snorkel that is too short will allow water to enter.
Fins. Fins allow you to swim faster and more efficiently. Choose fins that fit your feet comfortably and are the right size for your swimming ability. If you are a beginner, choose short fins. If you are an experienced snorkeller, choose long fins.
Wetsuit. A wetsuit keeps you warm in cold water. The water temperature in Sydney Harbour ranges from 17 degrees Celsius in winter to 23 degrees Celsius in summer. A 3mm wetsuit is suitable for summer, and a 5mm wetsuit is suitable for winter.
Weight belt. A weight belt helps you to descend and stay underwater. If you are a beginner, you may not need a weight belt. If you are an experienced snorkeller, you may need a weight belt to help you descend to the reef.
If you are new to snorkelling, consider taking a guided snorkelling tour. Guided tours are led by experienced instructors who will show you the best spots and help you identify marine life. Guided tours also provide equipment and safety support. Several operators run guided snorkelling tours in Sydney Harbour, including Ocean Fit and Dive Centre.
More information about snorkelling in Sydney is available at Ocean Fit and the NSW National Parks website.
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