Best Snorkelling Spots in Perth: 15 Spots That Are Actually Worth It

I’ve been snorkelling since I was a kid and it’s still one of my favourite things to do in summer. One of my most vivid memories is spotting a little stingray gliding along the sand. It was around the time Steve Irwin died, so my brain went into a full panic. My mum was watching from the shore and swears she’s never seen me swim so fast in my life! These days, I still love a good snorkel, though now I’m actually keen to see a big ray!

Perth might not be the first place people think of for snorkelling, but it absolutely should be. Our coastline is stacked with calm bays, rocky reefs, and underwater trails just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a total newbie or a confident diver, there are loads of good snorkelling spots around Perth to chuck on your fins and get underwater. Here are my top 15 places to go snorkelling in Perth, including where to find reef life, when to go, and tips for a safe and fun day in our great outdoors.

Top 15 Snorkelling Spots in and Around Perth

If you’re looking for the best snorkelling spots in Perth, I’ve got you covered! Here are my top picks: 

1. Mettams Pool

If you’re a beginner or you’re just after an easy swim with heaps to see, Mettams Pool is a top pick. Located along the northern beaches in Trigg, it’s one of the most beginner-friendly snorkelling spots in Perth.

The natural limestone reef creates a calm, sheltered lagoon that’s usually free of strong waves and currents, perfect for kids or anyone just starting out. On a good day you’ll spot reef fish darting between coral bommies, seaweed beds and rocky outcrops. 

Top tip: go early in the morning when the water is glassy and the visibility is at its best. This spot can be busy and parking fills quickly, especially on weekends or school hols, so arrive early or be prepared for a bit of a walk. There are stairs down to the beach and nearby toilets so it’s an easy one for families too.

2. Omeo Wreck (Coogee Maritime Trail)

The Omeo Shipwreck is part of the Coogee Maritime Trail – an underwater snorkel and dive trail built around a 117-year-old iron-hulled shipwreck just off the beach at Coogee.

The wreck itself is shallow and easy to access, just 25 metres from the shoreline. You’ll find metal beams, twisted hull remains, and reef structures covered in sea lettuce and coral. Expect to see schools of herring, whiting and if you’re lucky, the occasional ray cruising past. The trail also includes underwater sculptures and artificial reef balls, making it one of the most unique snorkel spots in Perth. 

Top tip: There’s a snorkel entry point just south of the Omeo Park stairs. Aim for early morning when it’s calm and less crowded. Bring reef shoes because the shoreline’s a bit rocky.

3. Shoalwater Islands Marine Park

If you’re up for a bit more adventure, Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is where things get really fun. Located just off the coast of Rockingham, this area includes Penguin Island, Seal Island, and a bunch of shallow reefs, seagrass beds, and sandy lagoons, which are all perfect for snorkelling.

You’ll need to either kayak out, catch a ferry or jump on a local tour. Around the island’s edges, especially at places like Little Penguin and Mersey Point Reef, you’ll spot loads of reef fish, starfish and maybe even a sea lion!

It’s a marine park, so there’s no fishing allowed – which means more fish for you to see. Just make sure to check the weather before you go because the area can get choppy when the wind picks up.

4. Parker Point, Rottnest Island

If you’re heading over to Rottnest, make sure you pack your snorkel (or hire one from Pedal and Flipper) Parker Point is one of the island’s best underwater spots. It’s home to a dedicated snorkel trail with underwater plaques that tell you what marine life and reef structures you’re looking at. Bit of a snorkel-meets-scavenger-hunt vibe.

The water here is super clear and teeming with life. Expect to see colourful coral, loads of reef fish and if you’re lucky – stingrays or even the occasional turtle! It’s a great place to take it slow and really explore.

Access is easy from the beach, and there are some stairs down to the water. Just be aware it’s part of a marine sanctuary zone, so no touching, chasing or fishing – keep it respectful.

Top tip: go early before the wind picks up, and check if the Rottnest Island bus is running – it’ll drop you right near the stairs.

5. Point Peron

Point Peron, down near Rockingham, is a bit more rugged but if you’re confident in the water it’s a ripper spot to explore. The rocky limestone reef wraps around the point and creates a bunch of little caves and ledges.

There’s loads of marine life here, especially around the reef edges. You might spot leatherjackets, sweep, or even a sleepy wobbegong hiding out in the shade. The water can be a bit more exposed and choppy, so it’s best for more experienced snorkellers or calm-weather days.

Access is from the beach near the car park – just walk down and choose your entry. Avoid going out if the swell’s up, and keep an eye on your footing around the reef (some parts can be slippery or sharp).

6. Hillarys Boat Harbour

This one’s more of a chill, easy-access spot, perfect if you’ve got kids in tow or just want a low-effort snorkel. While the harbour itself isn’t a full-on reef zone, there’s still marine life to see around the rock walls and breakwaters, especially near the northern edge and along the groynes.

Expect to spot small schools of fish like herring and whiting, along with sea stars and the occasional crab. I’ve even spotted starfish here!  The water’s calm and shallow, so it’s a good intro spot or a place to test new gear.

There’s also Boyinaboat Reef a little further out, best for stronger swimmers. 

It’s also just across from AQWA, so if you want to see what lives deeper without getting wet, you can suss it out inside after your snorkel.

7. Woodman Point + Ammo Jetty

Woodman Point is a bit of a local favourite, especially around the Ammo Jetty, which stretches out into calm, fishy waters. The jetty’s old pylons have built up a decent little ecosystem, so you’ll often see schools of baitfish, wrasse, and sometimes even rays cruising underneath.

It’s not as flashy as some of the marine parks, but it’s super accessible and great if you’re after a quick dip close to town. You can snorkel straight off the beach next to the jetty, or jump in closer to the end (just keep an eye out for people fishing off the sides).

The water’s generally calm, though it can get murky after storms or strong winds. Best visited early or on a still day for max visibility.

Top tip: reef shoes help here, the sand near the rocks can be a bit rough underfoot. And if you’re into sunsets, it’s a brilliant spot to stick around after your swim.

8. North Beach Jetty

Tucked between Watermans and Mettams, North Beach Jetty is a chill little spot that’s often overlooked. The reef and rock wall attract plenty of fish, and it’s usually calm enough for a relaxed snorkel, especially early in the day.

It’s not as showy as Rotto or Shoalwater, but it’s easy to access, rarely crowded and a solid local pick if you’re north of the river.

Read this next: Best Beaches in Perth: 10 Top Spots That Locals Actually Go To!

9. Yanchep Lagoon

This one’s a solid pick if you’re keen to head a little north. Yanchep Lagoon has a big outer reef that forms a shallow, sheltered pool right near the shore, perfect for beginners, families or anyone chasing an easy swim.

You’ll usually spot schools of baitfish, butterflyfish and wrasse darting around the rocks. Visibility is best when the swell is low and the wind’s light, so keep an eye on conditions before heading out.

There’s a surf club, toilets and a cafe just across the road, so it’s an easy spot to make a day of it.

Top tip: stay inside the lagoon unless you’re confident – the reef break can get rough and rippy.

10. Cottesloe Beach (North Cottesloe & Peter’s Pool)

You don’t have to go far to snorkel – Cottesloe Beach has some decent spots if you time it right. North Cott and Peter’s Pool are both worth a look when the water’s calm. Expect to see schools of reef fish and the odd ray cruising the seafloor.

The eco shark barrier (up October-March) is a surprisingly good spot too, heaps of marine life hangs out around it. Just head out early before the wind kicks in and visibility drops.

Top tip: go midweek if you can – weekends get hectic!

11. Marmion Marine Park (Various Access Points)

Although some stand-out spots have already been mentioned, Marmion Marine Park in general deserves a mention. Stretching from Trigg up to Burns Beach, the marine park has a bunch of reefy spots worth checking out. You’ll find limestone ledges, swim-throughs, and plenty of reef fish if the swell’s down.

There’s no one main snorkel entry – just pick a calm stretch like Mettams, North Beach, Watermans and head out from there. It’s a protected area, so marine life’s thriving!

Top tip: stick to clear mornings after a few calm days for the best visibility.

12. Little Salmon Bay (Rottnest Island)

One of the calmest spots on Rotto – Little Salmon Bay is basically made for snorkelling! It’s shallow, clear, and loaded with coral, sponge gardens and darting reef fish.

There’s a marked snorkel trail too, with underwater plaques if you feel like learning while you float. Great for kids or anyone who wants a chill swim in a protected cove.

Read this next: Rottnest Island Day Trip Itinerary: The Best of Rotto in One Day!

13. South Beach (Fremantle)

Not the flashiest reef around, but South Beach is a good local spot for a cruisy swim with a few fishy friends. The water’s usually calm and clear in the mornings, and you’ll spot small schools of fish near the groynes and rocky patches.

It’s super accessible, close to cafes, and has showers, toilets, and a big grassy area so it’s easy to make a full arvo of it.

Read this next: The Aquarium Yallingup: Discover WA’s Secret Rock Pool in 2025

14. Bennion Beach (Trigg)

Tucked just north of Trigg Beach, Bennion’s a bit more rugged and often quieter than the big-name spots. If the swell’s down, it’s a ripper place to snorkel: think rocky ledges, reefy patches, and deeper water for confident swimmers.

You’ll usually spot wrasse, leatherjackets, and the odd ray cruising the sandy gaps between reefs. Entry’s sandy but can get a bit surgey, so it’s best for more experienced snorkellers.

Top tip: no facilities here – bring what you need and be ready for a bit of a walk down.

15. Bathers Beach (Fremantle)

Right in the heart of Freo, Bathers Beach is more about convenience than coral, but it’s still worth a dip if you’re in the area. On a calm day, you can spot small fish near the jetty pylons and along the rocky bits at either end.

It’s super easy to access, with cafes and fish and chips just a few steps away. Great for a quick snorkel before lunch or a lazy sunset swim.

Read this next: Bathers Beach Guide: Where to Swim, Eat and Catch the Sunset in Freo

Best Gear for Snorkelling in Perth

You don’t need loads of gear to enjoy snorkelling in Perth and I never recommend spending a ton on a new hobby, but a good mask that actually seals and some comfy fins will make all the difference. Here are a few solid picks that suit WA conditions and different experience levels:

Best all-round snorkelling set for Perth

The Mares Cobia Fluida Snorkelling Dive Set is one of the most reliable all-round snorkelling sets for WA conditions. The mask seals well on most faces, the fins are flexible enough for longer swims, and the semi-dry snorkel cuts down water intake when there’s a bit of chop around – handy for Mettams Pool, Yanchep Lagoon or the sheltered coves at Rottnest. It’s ideal for beginners through to confident swimmers who want something dependable without going into full dive-gear territory.

Best upgrade set for confident swimmers

If you’re after a performance boost, the Mares Bonito X-One Snorkelling Dive Set is a great step up. The fins have more power behind them, which makes a noticeable difference when you’re swimming around reefs with a bit of current: think Parker Point or Salmon Bay at Rottnest, or Busselton Jetty on a calm morning. The mask offers excellent visibility and comfort for longer sessions. Best for snorkellers who already enjoy the hobby and want gear that keeps up.

Best value snorkelling set for beginners

The Mirage Barracuda Snorkelling Set is excellent value and a really solid pick for beginners. The mask is simple but reliable, the snorkel breathes easily, and the fins are comfortable for shorter swims 0 perfect for sheltered Perth favourites like Claremont Jetty, Hillarys or Bicton Baths. If you want something affordable that still works well in WA’s cooler water and rocky entry points, this is the best budget-friendly option.

Best snorkelling combo for kids

For younger snorkellers, the Mares X-One/Pirate Junior Dive Set is a standout. The mask fits smaller faces properly, the fins are soft and easy for little legs to kick with, and the whole set is sturdy enough to handle sandy beach entries and shallow reef exploring. It’s great for family-friendly spots like Yanchep Lagoon, The Basin at Rottnest or Penguin Island on a calm day. Best for confident swimmers aged roughly 6–12 who need gear that actually fits and doesn’t flood every five seconds.

Tips for Snorkelling in Perth (Plus Safety Essentials)

Keep these tips in mind for a fun (and safe) day out in the sun:

• Go early: Mornings are best for visibility and calm water. By the time the Freo Doctor rolls in, everything gets a bit choppy and murky
• Know your ability: pick a location that suits your swimming ability If you’re not a confident swimmer, stick to sheltered lagoons or snorkel with a buddy close to shore.
• Check conditions: Keep an eye on swell, wind and tide. I like using WillyWeather or Seabreeze to suss it out. Keep in mind conditions can change quickly
• Bring the basics: Snorkel, mask, fins, reef-safe sunscreen, and something warm for after, a dry bag never hurts either
• Know your spot: Some beaches have strong rips or reefy entries. Stick to calm days if you’re not confident, and enter near the flagged areas where possible
• SharkSmart: Download the app or check the SharkSmart site for alerts. Also helps with beach closures and stinger warnings
• Go with a buddy: Always better (and safer) with a mate, especially if you’re exploring deeper spots
• Respect marine life:  Don’t touch, chase or feed anything. Most snorkel areas are in protected zones, so follow the signs and leave it better than you found it

What Marine Life Can You Spot in Perth Waters?

Perth’s not exactly the Great Barrier Reef, but there’s still plenty going on under the surface. Depending on where you go (and how lucky you are), you might spot:

• Reef fish: butterflyfish, wrasse, leatherjackets, blowies, whiting and herring are all pretty common
• Rays: eagle rays, stingrays, and if you’re lucky, a big smooth ray gliding past
• Octopus and cuttlefish: hiding in rocky crevices or changing colour on the sand
• Sea stars, nudibranchs and anemones: tiny but worth a closer look
• Turtles: rare but possible, especially around Rottnest
• Port Jackson sharks: harmless bottom-dwellers that cruise the reef now and then

Last Words on Best Snorkelling Spots Perth

Snorkelling in Perth is one of the easiest ways to dive into WA’s coastal magic – no boat, no tanks, just a mask, some fins and a curious eye! Whether you’re floating over reefs at Rotto or spotting fish around your local jetty, there’s something special about slowing down and seeing what’s under the surface.

Pick a calm morning, pack your gear, and give one of these spots a go. You don’t need to be a pro, just respectful of the ocean and ready for a salty adventure.