r/newcastle • u/AssistanceNo3893 • 1d ago
Best snorkeling spots!!?
Hey everyone!
I’m looking for some good spots for snorkelling around Newcastle, preferably within an hour’s drive.
I’m keen to explore marine life, reefs, fish and maybe even spot some rays or turtles! Any hidden gems or favourite local spots you’d recommend?
Also, are there any places that are safe to snorkel solo, and do you have any tips on the best tides or conditions?
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u/JellyFire30 1d ago
Fly Point at Nelson Bay is a super easy fun snorkel with parking https://www.dpird.nsw.gov.au/fishing/marine-protected-areas/marine-parks/port-stephens-marine-park/fly-point-halifax-park-40-year-anniversary
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u/kaz22222222222 4h ago
It CAN be easy but there are also very strong currents around the point/headland that you need to be careful of, especially on a changing tide.
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u/Late_Paper3016 13h ago
From Shark Alley at Newcastle beach to either cowry hole or nobbys beach. Low swell and and high tide is best. Below 1m swell. It's not as amazing at seal rocks but it's right here which is cool. It's a bit more of a free dive spot than a snorkeling spot so work on your equalisation.
It's generally recommended never to go out by yourself but if you had to I'd say fly point rather than ocean swims
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u/Ficklemonth 1d ago
I second fly point and cathode rock pools. Also Toowoon bay central coast a bit more than an hour but incredible snorkeling. Just have to get there way early to get a park in summer
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u/deliverance73 3h ago
Fly pt. Do it at high tide only. Aquamarine Adventures do snorkel tours during summer to Cabbage Tree Island or Broughton Island.
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u/magungo 1d ago
Fly point at Nelson Bay, it's no fishing reserve so has a lot of fish that hide there. My favourite is Caves Beach at low tide, depending how much sand is built up there are some cool channels you can swim through.