Blackwall Reach is a renowned shore-diving and snorkeling site along the Swan River in Bicton, Perth. Sheltered limestone cliffs up to 11 metres high fringe this deep, riverine channel, creating a unique urban snorkeling environment with excellent visibility. The site is dotted with sunken wrecks — including a 14-metre barge, a vehicle dump, and several boats — making it a fascinating underwater playground. Snorkellers can explore drop-offs, ledges, and scattered debris while drifting with the gentle river current. It's a favourite spot for both cliff jumping and underwater exploration, right in the Swan River's estuary near Fremantle.
Western Australia · Snorkel spot
Blackwall Reach
Western AustraliaIntermediate
Community contribution — submitted by Daniel
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MARGINALBlackwall Reach
Why this verdict
MarginalShowing last known conditions
- Wind SpeedFavourable
- Wave HeightFavourable
- VisibilityUnfavourable
Last evaluated •••
Plan your week
No forecast data available yet.
Forecasts are generated on demand.
The spot
Getting There
Directions
Located off Blackwall Reach Parade in Bicton, about 15 km south-west of Perth CBD. Follow Canning Highway to Point Walter Road, then turn onto Blackwall Reach Parade. The reserve is clearly signed and includes a car park at the river's edge.
Parking
Free car park available at Blackwall Reach Reserve off Blackwall Reach Parade.
Facilities
ParkingPicnic Tables
Fees
Free entry. No fees required.
Access Method
Shore EntryHazards
River current
cautionTidal outflow from the Swan River can create moderate currents, especially during ebb tides near the narrow channel.
Boat traffic
warningThe Swan River is an active waterway with powerboats and ferries; snorkellers must remain vigilant for vessel traffic.
Submerged wreck debris
cautionSharp metal edges, cables, and vehicle wreckage pose cut and entanglement hazards to snorkellers.
Cliff jumpers
warningPeople jumping from the 11 m limestone cliffs may land on snorkellers below; stay clear of the cliff base.
Water depth changes
cautionDepth drops quickly from the shoreline to over 15 metres; not suitable for weak swimmers or non-swimmers.
Difficulty & Marine Life
Wildlife Guide
Community
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Not available
- 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. HowsTheSpot is open source.
Weather & swell · Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides · UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety · community reports