You don’t need to travel to the Great Barrier Reef for an amazing underwater adventure! As Perth locals who have explored every nook and cranny of our coastline, we’re excited to share our 10 best snorkeling spots in Perth that are all within a few hours’ drive from the city. From protected lagoons perfect for beginners to exciting shipwrecks for the more adventurous, let’s dive into Perth’s best underwater treasures!
Beginner-Friendly Locations
Mettams Pool
Mettam’s Pool is a well-loved and accessible reef area located along the coastline of Trigg, Western Australia, just north of Perth. It’s an excellent spot for those looking to enjoy the underwater world, offering both a protected marine environment and a variety of entry points for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Mettam’s Pool is an ideal spot for anyone looking to explore Western Australia’s marine environment, whether you’re a beginner swimmer or an experienced diver. With its easy access, calm waters, and rich marine life, it’s one of the best places along the Perth coastline to snorkel and dive.
There are several entry points to access the water at Mettam’s Pool. Each offers different experiences depending on whether you want a more relaxed swim or a deeper dive into the reef.
Main Entry Point (Mettam’s Pool)
Location: The primary entry point is the natural rock pool itself.
Access: The pool can be accessed by walking down a set of stairs or the rocky path from the car park. The pool is a shallow, enclosed lagoon, which makes it perfect for beginner snorkelers or families with children.
Southern Reef Entry (South of Mettam’s Pool)
Location: South of the main pool, you’ll find a small reef area with a shallow lagoon and rocky outcrops.
Access: This entry is slightly more rugged, with a mix of rocks and sand to navigate. It is suitable for more experienced swimmers or snorkelers who want to explore the marine life further from the main pool.
Northern Reef Entry (North of Mettam’s Pool)
Location: North of Mettam’s Pool, the reef system continues and offers more rocky outcrops and deeper water.
Access: Entry is similar to the southern reef, requiring some careful navigation over rocky terrain. This area is less frequented, so it may offer a more private experience.
The Basin on Rottnest Island
The Basin is one of the most famous and accessible snorkeling and swimming spots on Rottnest Island, located off the coast of Perth, Western Australia. Rottnest Island, a protected nature reserve and popular tourist destination, is approximately 19 kilometers (12 miles) from the mainland, accessible by ferry from Fremantle, Elizabeth Quay or Hillary’s.
The Basin is situated near the island’s Geordie Bay and is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, offering stunning clear water, abundant marine life, and a unique, sheltered environment that makes it ideal for various water activities
The Basin is well-known for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters, which are shallow and ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. The water depth here generally ranges from 1 to 3 meters. It’s a protected lagoon, making it relatively calm with very little wave action, which contributes to its appeal for families and casual swimmers
The Basin is accessible via a short walk from the nearby Geordie Bay, which is relatively easy, taking about 5 to 10 minutes, and leads to a picturesque cove.
Shoalwater Islands Marine Park
Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is located just 47 kilometers south of Perth in the coastal region of Rockingham, Western Australia. This protected marine area spans over 6,000 hectares and includes several islands and pristine coastal environments, such as Penguin Island, Seal Island, Garden Island, and the Herring Bay region. It is one of the most accessible and well-loved marine parks in Western Australia, offering a rich diversity of marine life, picturesque landscapes, and various water activities.Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is home to a variety of fascinating marine creatures, making it a haven for snorkelers, divers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
The park’s protected waters are filled with an impressive diversity of species, including: Australian Sea Lions, Bottlenose Dolphins and various species of fish.
Parker Point on Rottnest Island
Parker Point is one of Rottnest Island’s best snorkeling spots, located on the southeast end of Rottnest Island.
Parker Point is widely regarded as one of the best snorkeling spots on Rottnest Island due to its clear water, rich marine biodiversity, and relatively shallow reef systems. Snorkelers can easily explore the vibrant coral gardens and spot a wide range of tropical fish species in the shallow waters near the shore.
One of the highlights of Parker Point is its crystal-clear water, which offers excellent visibility for snorkeling. The bay is typically sheltered from the prevailing winds, which helps keep the waters calm, creating ideal conditions for underwater exploration.
The water depth ranges from 1.5 to 15 meters, with shallower areas near the shore, making it accessible for swimmers and snorkelers.
Parker Point is accessible via bicycle or by bus.
Omeo Wreck
The Omeo Wreck is a fascinating site located just 25 meters off the shore of Coogee Beach The wreck is the remains of the SS Omeo, a cargo ship that sank in 1905. It is one of the most accessible wreck sites in the Perth region, making it a popular snorkel destination.
The trail now features over 55 structures waiting to be explored, including reef pyramids, a swim-through sculpture, a replica cannon, the Mystery Railway wheel, a folding stock anchor from the Swan River, a sea lion sculpture, a selfie porthole, and much more.
In addition to the fascinating art installations, the trail is home to a variety of marine life. Keep an eye out for fish, stingrays, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a passing seal or dolphin.
Best Snorkeling Spots in Perth for Advanced Snorkelers
Busselton Jetty
The Busselton Jetty Snorkel Trail is one of the premier underwater attractions in the South West of Western Australia.
Busselton Jetty is the longest timber-piled jetties in the Southern Hemisphere, stretching over 1.8 kilometers into Geographe Bay. The Snorkel Trail is a fantastic way to explore the marine life that thrives beneath the jetty
The depth of the trail ranges from around 1 to 3 meters, making it perfect for snorkelers. The waters around Busselton Jetty are generally calm, and visibility is usually good, though it can vary depending on the time of year and weather conditions.
We always recommend checking weather and sea conditions before going to ensure you get the best experience!
The trail is shallow enough that most of the marine life can be seen without the need for diving gear, although experienced divers will also appreciate the area.
There are a few ways to get to the end of the jetty:
Walk: It’s a pleasant 10-20 minute stroll along the jetty to reach the site. If you’re carrying scuba diving gear, you can hire a trolley at the Interpretive Centre.
Take the Jetty Train: The jetty train is a fun option, especially for kids, though it does cost around $4 for a return ticket.
It typically departs every hour within opening hours.
However, note that if you choose to go by train, you won’t be able to bring scuba equipment on board.
Boyinaboat Reef
Nestled along Perth’s stunning coastline, Boyinaboat Reef offers one of the city’s most accessible and rewarding snorkeling experiences. Located in the Marmion Marine Park, this limestone reef system is a favorite among local snorkelers and marine enthusiasts, providing a fascinating glimpse into Perth’s underwater world just steps from the shore. The reef gets its unique name from a distinctive reef formation that, when viewed from above, resembles a boy sitting in a boat!
North Cottesloe Reef
Just steps from one of Perth’s most prestigious beaches lies a marine wonderland that locals have treasured for generations. North Cottesloe Reef, with its intricate limestone formations and vibrant marine life, offers some of the best shore-based snorkeling in metropolitan Perth. What makes this spot truly special is its accessibility combined with the protection offered by its natural amphitheater-like bay structure, creating perfect conditions for both novice and experienced snorkelers.
North Cottesloe Reef stands out as one of Perth’s most accessible and rewarding snorkeling destinations. Whether you’re a local or visitor, the combination of protected waters, abundant marine life, and excellent facilities makes it an ideal spot for underwater exploration.
Point Peron
Point Peron is one of Perth’s hidden gems for snorkeling, offering an accessible and diverse underwater experience along the Shoalwater Bay Marine Park. Located in Rockingham, just 45 minutes south of Perth’s city center, Point Peron is known for its calm, crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and picturesque coastal scenery.
The reef is located just off the Point Peron beach. For snorkelers, it’s a short swim from the shoreline to the reef and will be an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, you’ll find plenty to explore, from kelp forests and rocky outcrops to schools of fish and if you’re lucky, you can even experience encounters with Australian Sea Lions and Bottlenose Dolphins.
MAAC Dive & Snorkel Trail
The Marmion Angling and Aquatic Club (MAAC) Dive Trail offers one of Perth’s most unique snorkeling experiences. Located within the Marmion Marine Park, this purpose-built underwater trail features submerged sculptures and artificial reef structures that create a fascinating marine ecosystem. What makes this spot truly special is its combination of artistic elements with natural marine life, providing an accessible underwater museum just meters from shore!
The depth in most of the MAAC Dive and Snorkel Trail is shallow, generally ranging from 1 to 5 meters making it ideal for snorkelers. There are deeper areas, but they’re mostly suited to more experienced divers.
Essential Planning Information for Perth Snorkeling
Best Time to Visit
Spring (September – November) and Autumn (September to May) when the temperatures are mild and water conditions are ideal are the most favourable seasons for snorkelling around Perth.
Summer (December to February) are also great months for beach days and water activities but the beaches and snorkel spots are a lot busier and will often be crowded, especially during school holidays.
Places like The Basin and Parker Point on Rottnest Island are especially busy during summer as this is the peak season for tourism on Rottnest Island.
If you plan to visit any of these spots over the summer, we would highly recommend going on a weekday and try to get there as early as possible.
Visibility is often best in the morning when the waters are calm so we recommend going early in the morning before it gets too windy.
You can always check wind and weather conditions before going to ensure you get the best experience.
Tip: Busselton Jetty has live webcams to check before visiting which will show the visibility on the day you plan on going.
Parking and Facilities available at each location
Mettams Pool
There are parking facilities available near Mettam’s Pool, with a small car park accessible from West Coast Drive. It’s usually busy on weekends and holidays, so plan to arrive early if you prefer to secure a spot.
The area has basic amenities like public toilets and outdoor showers, making it convenient for swimmers and snorkelers.
The Basin
While The Basin is a natural setting, nearby Geordie Bay offers some basic facilities, including toilets, picnic tables, and a general store.
Visitors should come prepared with water, food, and sun protection, as The Basin itself has no services.
Parker Point
Parker Point is a key stop on the Quokka Coaches Island Explorer (Stop 5), featuring coach parking, and a public toilet facility.
We recommend bringing your own water, food and sun protections or purchasing it from the Settlement before heading out to visit Parker Point.
Shoalwater Island Marine Park
Shoalwater Island Marine Park is located close to Rockingham, about an hour south of Perth.
There is usually plenty of parking available near the visitor centre and there is access to public toilets and picnic areas.
Omeo Wreck
Parking is not great in this area and we highly recommend arriving as early as possible as finding a spot can be a little challenging.
We have often had to park further away and walk about 500-700 meters to get to the beach.
The nearest public toilets, which include a changing place, baby change table, and outdoor shower, are located off Maraboo Loop, near the Ngarkal Beach Water Park.
Otherwise, toilets are available at the Port Coogee Shopping Centre on Marine Parade.
Busselton Jetty
There is plenty of parking available at the beach end of Queen Street or through the Goose Cafe carpark, which is accessible via Geographe Bay Rd.
Toilets are located in the Visitor Centre on the foreshore and also at the end of the jetty.
Boyinabot Reef
There is plenty of parking available at Hillary’s Boat Harbour which is close to AQWA and about 300 meters away from the entry point to the reef.
There is no access to public toilets near the entry point to the reef but there are public toilets close to AQWA.
North Cottesloe Reef
Parking is usually not a problem here as it is a popular choice amongst tourists and locals.
There are public toilets and changing facilities available.
Point Peron
There’s plenty of parking spots at Point Peron. There are two main car parks (Cape Peron Car Park East and West).
The only access to public toilets is before you enter the two car parks (about 1 kilometer from the beach)
MAAC Dive & Snorkel Trail
The trail starts off Marmion Beach (opposite the angling club) and there’s parking available along the coast.
There’s also access to a public toilet.
Safety Tips and Best Practices
Understand Local Currents and Wave Patterns
Perth’s coastline is subject to a variety of currents, including rip currents and tidal flows and it is best to always be prepared before entering the water.
Avoid snorkeling during extreme tides. It’s best to check the tidal charts for your snorkeling location before heading out.
Try to snorkel in calmer conditions, preferably in the early morning when winds are lighter.
Key Resources for Currents and Tides:
Tides WA – For tidal information specific to Perth beaches.
Sea Breeze – Wind Forecasts – For checking wind and wave conditions.
Surfrider Foundation – For understanding local currents and water safety.
Guide to Reading Weather and Marine Forecasts
Before heading out, it’s essential to check weather conditions, including wind, waves, and water temperature. Perth’s coastline can change rapidly, especially in the winter months, so planning ahead is key.
For accurate wind and wave forecasts, use reliable platforms to gauge conditions for specific snorkeling locations. The ideal snorkeling conditions are light winds and small waves (under 1 meter).
Perth’s water temperature fluctuates between 15°C in winter and 22–24°C in summer, with spring and autumn averaging around 20°C.
Weather Forecasts:
Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) – WA – For official weather and marine forecasts.
Windy.com – For detailed wind, wave, and marine conditions.
Seabreeze – For detailed wind and wave conditions across WA.
Snorkeling Etiquette and Reef Protection Guidelines
It’s crucial to follow marine protection guidelines to minimize your impact on the fragile ecosystems in Perth’s waters.
- Don’t Touch or Disturb Marine Life: Refrain from touching marine life, as this can cause damage to their environment or harm the creatures. Even accidental touching can cause damage to delicate species.
- Do Not Stand on Coral or Reef: Standing on coral or reefs can harm or kill them. Always float and keep your fins above the reef, never touching the seabed.
- Leave No Trace: Take all your trash with you, and avoid leaving anything behind on beaches or in the water. Respect nature, and try to leave the environment as you found it.
- Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Traditional sunscreens can harm marine life, especially coral reefs. Use a reef-safe sunscreen that is SPF 30+ and free from oxybenzone and octinoxate.
- Maintain a Safe Distance from Wildlife: Keep your distance from larger marine animals such as sea lions, whales, and dolphins. While these creatures may approach you, it’s important not to chase or harass them.
- Observe Local Regulations: Many areas around Perth, like Rottnest Island and Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, are part of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), so always check for specific rules before snorkeling in these zones. These areas have designated guidelines to protect marine life.
Key Resources for Reef Protection
Rottnest Island Marine Conservation – For guidelines on reef protection at Rottnest Island.
Marine Conservation Society – For general marine conservation tips.
Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions (WA) – For more information on protected areas and reef conservation.
Perth’s coastline offers an incredible array of snorkeling experiences right at our doorstep! From the family-friendly waters of Mettams Pool to the adventurous depths of the Busselton Jetty, there’s something for every skill level and interest.
Remember to always check local conditions before heading out, bring a buddy, and respect our marine environment.
If you are looking for more adventures to do around Perth, check out our list with 15 epic road trips to do here.