Reef Beach, located near Manly, Australia, invites snorkelers to immerse themselves in its stunning underwater world. It is part of the greater Sydney Harbour National Park. With its clear waters and thriving marine ecosystem, the beach offers a remarkable snorkeling experience. Explore the vibrant coral formations and encounter a diverse range of marine species, from colourful fish to graceful sea turtles. Get ready to dive into a captivating marine adventure and discover the natural beauty that awaits beneath the surface snorkelling in reef bay.

Access

Reef beach can be accessed via the iconic Spit to Manly walk. The section where the beach is located is called the Reef Beach Track. It is a 45 minute walk from Manly Wharf to the beach (see walking route here). If you do not feel like walking, there is a bus stop nearby that will take some time off the walk (see bus route here).

If you’re not hiking and and want to use your own car, the best spot to park your car is on Beatty Street, from where it’s only a short stroll (about 400 metres) to the beach.

Marine Life

In terms of marine life, you can come across sea turtles, cuttlefish. With luck, when snorkelling in reef bay you might even spot the elusive octopus camouflaged among the rocky crevices on the south side (left hand side) of the beach.

Facilities

While the beach is somewhat of the beaten compared to some off Manly’s other beaches, it has toilets available, which is a great plus if you feel like spending a few hours here.

Make it a pit stop while walking the famous Manly Scenic Walkway, or pack a picnic and spend the day. Pause at the bench on the nearby boardwalk and take in the beautiful views. At low tide, you might even be able to spot some Aboriginal carvings in the rocks

More information about the area

• https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/swimming-spots/reef-beach