Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve is a protected 'no-take' marine sanctuary spanning 20 hectares on Sydney's Northern Beaches. Sheltered from south-easterly swells by its west-facing embayment, this underwater wonderland boasts an extraordinary diversity of habitats — rocky reefs draped in kelp and sponges, seagrass beds, sandy floors, and boulder-strewn crevices. With over 160 fish species recorded, including wobbegong sharks, cuttlefish, weedy seadragons, and elegant wrasse, the reserve offers snorkellers a dazzling, accessible window into Sydney's richest marine biodiversity. The scenic 1.5km coastal walk from Manly Beach to Shelly Beach provides multiple entry points, making it a favourite for shore-based snorkelling and underwater photography.
Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve (Manly)
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Low risk: Rocky reef edges and submerged boulders
The rocky reef has complex terrain with crevices, boulders, and cobbles — swimmers and snorkellers should be cautious of sharp edges and uneven footing when entering or exiting the water.
Low risk: Boat traffic near reserve boundary
Although the reserve is a no-take zone, vessel traffic occurs near the perimeter; stay well inside the marked swimming areas and remain alert.
Low risk: Stormwater runoff after rain
Heavy rainfall can flush stormwater pollutants into the bay, temporarily reducing water visibility and quality. Avoid snorkelling for 24–48 hours after significant rain.
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Gallery
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Getting in
Cabbage Tree Bay is a 15-minute walk from Manly Wharf (ferry from Circular Quay) along the scenic coastal pathway past Manly Beach. The reserve stretches between Manly Beach and Shelly Beach. Multiple sets of stairs from the coastal walkway lead down to the water at Fairy Bower and Shelly Beach.
Limited paid street parking on Bower Street and surrounding streets. A small car park is available on the headland overlooking Shelly Beach. On weekends and summer holidays, spaces fill quickly; public transport or rideshare is strongly recommended.
Free entry. No fees for snorkelling or swimming in the aquatic reserve.
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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).
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- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.