Green Head Beaches / Snorkel Bays

Moderate risk: Rough reef breaks at Point Louise

Point Louise has a reef break that can produce strong surf conditions, unsuitable for inexperienced snorkelers when swell is up.

Moderate risk: Shipwreck reef hazards

Several Dutch shipwrecks (Gilt Dragon, Waeckende Boey) lie on the reefs — submerged wreckage can present entanglement or sharp metal hazards for divers.

Low risk: Rocky peninsula walk

The rocky headland can be sharp and slippery when wet; wear sturdy footwear if walking out for views.

Low risk: Offshore winds

Winds can pick up suddenly outside the sheltered bay, creating choppy conditions for those venturing beyond the protected area.

Low risk: Rocky shoreline at peninsula

The rocky cliff and peninsula areas can be slippery and sharp underfoot when exploring outside the sheltered bay.

Low risk: Fishing activity

Fishing lines and tackle are sometimes present in the water, posing entanglement and hook risks for snorkelers.

Low risk: Rocky edges

The bay is flanked by low rocky cliffs and a rocky peninsula; sharp rocks near the shoreline require care when entering or exiting the water.

Low risk: Rocky peninsula outcrops

The rocky cliff that shelters the bay has jagged sections along the peninsula walk — sharp edges near the waterline at the bay's edges.

Low risk: Offshore wind and swell beyond the bay

While the bay itself is calm, winds and swell pick up significantly just beyond the protective rocky cliff. Snorkellers should stay within the sheltered bay area.

Low risk: Seagrass debris accumulation

South Bay has seagrass meadows 50 m offshore; large amounts of seagrass debris can accumulate in the northern corner near the boat launch area.

Low risk: Surf break at Point Louise

Point Louise has a reef break that activates during large outside swells, creating stronger conditions unsuitable for inexperienced swimmers.

Low risk: Limestone reef hazards

Sharp limestone reef formations are present offshore, particularly around Point Louise and offshore islands; care needed when entering and exiting the water.

Low risk: Reef sharp edges

Shallow limestone and coral reefs can have sharp edges; reef shoes recommended when entering or exiting the water.

Low risk: Swell surge at exposed bays

South Bay and Anchorage Bay can experience ocean swell surge, especially in winter months, creating stronger water movement near the reef.

Low risk: Boat traffic at South Bay

South Bay has a boat ramp and recreational jetty; be aware of boat movements in this area.

Low risk: Sea lion mating season tour restrictions

Sea lion tours are often unavailable during August when Australian Sea Lions are mating. Fisherman's Island breeding colony has restricted access.

Low risk: Reef break surf at Point Louise

Point Louise has a good reef break that can create challenging conditions for inexperienced swimmers and snorkellers when the swell is up.

Low risk: Limited facilities at remote bays

South Bay and some of the more secluded bays have limited facilities; visitors should bring their own water and supplies.

Low risk: Restricted access to Fisherman's Island

Fisherman's Island is an Australian Sea Lion breeding colony with restricted access — unauthorised landing is prohibited and tours may not operate during August mating season.

Low risk: Offshore current from Leeuwin Current

The warm Leeuwin Current flows southward past the offshore reefs and can create unexpected drift conditions for snorkelers and divers.