Cowrie Cove is a small, secluded cove on the western side of the Burrup Peninsula (Murujuga), within reach of Karratha and Dampier in Western Australia's Pilbara region. Sheltered by rugged red-rock headlands and bordered by the turquoise waters of the Dampier Archipelago, this shore-entry spot offers access to fringing coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, rays, and turtles. The cove's rocky shoreline gives way to sandy patches and scattered hard and soft corals, making it a quiet alternative to busier nearby sites. Its location adjacent to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Murujuga National Park — home to ancient petroglyphs — adds a unique cultural dimension to any snorkelling trip.
Cowrie Cove
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Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 2.7 sWind Speed 0.1 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Marine Stingers (Nov–Apr)
Box jellyfish and other stingers may be present during warmer months from November to April. Wear a stinger suit for protection.
Low risk: Rocks and Reef Shoes Required
Entry is over rocks and uneven terrain. Strongly recommend wearing sturdy reef shoes to avoid cuts and slips.
Low risk: Tidal Currents
Tidal movement can create currents around the headlands. Snorkelling is best at low tide; check tide charts before entering.
Low risk: Boat Traffic
The cove and surrounding waters are used by recreational and fishing boats. A dive flag or float is recommended for visibility.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
From Karratha, take the Dampier Highway west, then turn onto Burrup Road heading north. Look for Village Road (off Burrup Road) which leads towards Cowrie Cove and the adjacent coves. Access is via an unsealed track — a 4WD or AWD vehicle is recommended. The cove is located on the western side of the Burrup Peninsula, just south of Watering Cove and Hearson's Cove.
Parking & facilities
Limited informal parking off the dirt track near the cove. No designated car park.
No entry fee. Located adjacent to Murujuga National Park (national park fees may apply if entering via the park).
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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