Explore Shelly Beach’s protected reef on a guided, open-group snorkel tour in Cabbage Tree Bay. Ideal for confident ocean swimmers, the one-hour experience highlights reef fish, rays and the Eastern Blue Groper while emphasizing safety and conservation.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The water tastes of salt and sunlight as you slip a mask over your eyes and peer into Cabbage Tree Bay. Shelly Beach opens like a calm room of aquamarine, reef edges cutting shadows and schools of fish flicking through the shallows. Guides gather the group on the sand, run a concise safety briefing, and check equipment before you ease into the protected bay.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
60 minutes
Fitness Level
Comfortable swimming ability and basic open-water confidence; moderate stamina for short swims and surface intervals.
Wildlife
History
Shelly Beach sits on Sydney’s northern headlands where fishing and coastal recreation have long been part of local life; the adjacent Cabbage Tree Bay was designated an aquatic reserve to protect its temperate reef communities.
Conservation
The aquatic reserve is managed to reduce impacts on sensitive species—follow guide instructions, avoid touching wildlife, and use reef-safe products to minimize your footprint.
Reserve your spot on the Open Group Snorkelling Experience today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Use only reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and reapply before entering the water; a rash vest adds sun protection.
Be honest about your swim ability
This tour requires unassisted ocean swimming—book a private session if you’re not confident in surf conditions.
Arrive early for gear fit
Get to the meeting point 15–20 minutes early so guides can fit masks, snorkels and rash vests and run the safety briefing.
Look, don’t touch
Observe marine animals from a distance—no chasing or touching; this protects wildlife and keeps you safe.
Personal snorkel mask
A well-fitting mask improves visibility and comfort compared with loan gear.
Rash vest or wetsuit top
Provides sun protection and light thermal insulation in cooler months.
summer
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the marine environment.
summer
Towel and dry change of clothes
You’ll want a dry layer after the swim and something warm to change into.