Flat Rock, located roughly 15 km south of Cowell on the Eyre Peninsula, is a striking Ice Age remnant formation that creates a natural snorkeling playground in the Franklin Harbor Marine Park. Its shallow, sheltered waters are teeming with reef fish, fiddler rays, bright sea stars, and the occasional dolphin, making it a favourite among local snorkelers. The rock shelf itself is a geological curiosity — a flat platform that gently slopes into clear, calm waters ideal for beginners and families exploring South Australia's rich marine sanctuaries.
Flat Rock (Cowell)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.2 mSwell Period 12 sWind Speed 7.2 knPrecipitation 19 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
The spot
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Low risk: Outgoing tide current
Tidal movement around the rock shelf can create moderate currents during outgoing tide, particularly near the edge of the platform.
Low risk: Slippery rock shelf
The flat rock platform can be very slippery when wet, requiring care when entering and exiting the water.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Drive approximately 15 km south of Cowell on the Lincoln Highway, then turn onto Flat Rock Beach Road (unsealed) and follow it to the beach. The access track leads directly to a campground area adjacent to the rock platform.
Parking & facilities
Unsealed parking area at Flat Rock Campground, adjacent to the beach. Suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions.
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Free entry; no fees required.
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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