Johns Beach, better known locally as Karratha Back Beach, is a popular shore-entry snorkelling spot on the Pilbara coast. A public boat ramp and jetty provide easy access to the waters of the Dampier Archipelago — the richest marine biodiversity zone in Western Australia. Snorkellers can swim straight off the beach to explore coral patches, sponge gardens, and seagrass beds teeming with over 650 fish species. The beach's sheltered western aspect and sandy entry make it a favourite for families and beginners, while the adjacent reef systems offer more adventurous swimming for experienced snorkellers. Best visited at low tide when clarity improves.
Johns Beach (Karratha Back Beach)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 2.5 sWind Speed 1.4 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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© Jim BendonThe spot
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
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Moderate risk: Box jellyfish
Stinging box jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri) may be present during warmer months (Oct-Apr). Wear a stinger suit for protection.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers
Box jellyfish and irukandji may be present during the warmer months from November to May.
Moderate risk: Boat traffic
The public boat ramp and jetty see regular boat launching activity; snorkellers should stay clear of the ramp channel.
Low risk: Outgoing tide current
Tidal movement through the bay can create moderate currents on an outgoing tide, especially near the rocky headlands.
Low risk: Summer heat
Extreme Pilbara heat (often 40+°C) from November to March makes early-morning snorkelling strongly recommended.
Wildlife Guide
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Gallery
3 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Located on the western edge of Karratha, off Back Beach Road. From the Karratha town centre, follow Dampier Highway west for about 3 km, then turn onto Back Beach Road and continue to the beach carpark.
Parking & facilities
Sealed carpark with trailer parking (approx. 20 car bays + 20 trailer bays). Also a separate carpark for RVs and caravans.
toiletsparkingboat_ramp
Free entry and parking.
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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