Elliot Heads

Moderate risk: Outgoing tide current

The rock pools are only accessible and safely explored around low tide. The outgoing tide can create currents around the rock shelf.

Moderate risk: Tidal isolation

As the tide comes back in, the rock shelf becomes submerged. Snorkelers must be aware of tide times to avoid being cut off.

Moderate risk: Tidal exposure

Rock pools are only fully exposed and accessible at lower tides; at high tide the shelf is completely submerged and pools are not visible.

Moderate risk: Tidal currents at river mouth

The Elliott River mouth creates strong rips and deep channels. Swimming in the river itself is not recommended at any tide.

Low risk: Slippery rock shelf

The exposed volcanic rock shelf can be extremely slippery, especially when wet, requiring careful footing when walking between pools.

Low risk: Uneven entry and exit

Deeper pools further out on the shelf need care getting in and out due to uneven rock edges and sudden depth changes.

Low risk: Slippery volcanic rock

The rock shelf and edges of deeper pools can be very slippery when wet, requiring care when entering and exiting.

Low risk: Deep pools further out

Pools farther from shore on the rock shelf are deeper and require caution getting in and out, especially for weaker swimmers.

Low risk: Tidal currents at incoming tide

As the tide comes in, water movement across the rock shelf can create unexpected currents near the outer pools.

Low risk: Sea Urchins

Sharp-spined sea urchins commonly found among rock platforms and coral — avoid touching submerged rocks.

Low risk: Tide-Dependent Access

Best snorkelling is at high tide when submerged rock platforms are fully covered; low tide exposes rocks and reduces depth significantly.

Low risk: Strong Sun Exposure

Limited shade on the beach and exposed rock platforms — sunburn is a real risk midday.

Low risk: Rock shelf at low tide

The extensive rock platform can be slippery underfoot. Care needed when walking to and from the rock pools.

Low risk: Dr Mays Island bird nesting closure

The island is closed from September to April to protect nesting migratory shorebirds.