Bird Rock is a popular snorkel and dive site just offshore from Port Macquarie on the Mid North Coast of NSW. The exposed rock formation rises above the water, while below, a mosaic of rocky outcrops, crevices, and sandy gutters creates a rich habitat for marine life. The site reaches a maximum depth of around 13 metres, making it equally appealing for snorkellers exploring the shallows and divers circling the rock. Located near Shelly Beach, it offers sheltered conditions on calm days and rewards visitors with clear waters and abundant fish life.
Bird Rock (Port Macquarie)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.6 mSwell Period 7.4 sWind Speed 11 knPrecipitation 0.2 mmTidal Phase slack
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Low risk: Boating traffic
Bird Rock is a popular dive site and may have boat traffic in the vicinity. Maintain situational awareness and consider using a dive flag.
Low risk: Variable ocean conditions
Swell and wind can affect visibility and safety. Best snorkelled on calm, low-swell days.
Low risk: Boat traffic
The offshore location means boat traffic may be present. Snorkellers should be vigilant and stay close to the rock.
Low risk: Ocean surge
Surge can increase around the rock on windy days, making conditions challenging, especially on the seaward side.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Bird Rock is located off Pacific Drive, Port Macquarie, near the Shelly Beach area. Park at Shelly Beach carpark and swim out to the rock formation. The site is visible from the shore.
Parking & facilities
Shelly Beach carpark on Pacific Drive, Port Macquarie.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports