Mackeral Boulder (also known as Mackerel Boulder) is an offshore reef and submerged boulder formation located near Julian Rocks in the Cape Byron Marine Park, off Byron Bay on the North Coast of NSW. This site is a renowned aggregation point for pelagic fish, especially Spanish mackerel, and is part of a seasonal open fishing zone that also attracts snorkelers and spearfishers. The boulder sits in the clear subtropical waters where the East Australian Current brings warm, blue water close to shore, offering excellent visibility. Due to its proximity to the Byron Bay Sanctuary Zone, the surrounding reefs host vibrant marine life, though the area is best known as a seasonal hotspot.
Mackeral Boulder
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 0.0 sWind Speed 1.4 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase unknown
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Strong tidal currents
The area near Julian Rocks experiences strong tidal flows that can move snorkelers away from the reef.
Low risk: Boat traffic
The Boulder is in a fishing zone and can have vessel traffic from recreational fishers and charter boats.
Low risk: Seasonal shark presence
Grey nurse sharks are known to frequent the area; the site is closed to fishing part of the year due to their presence.
Low risk: Ocean swell exposure
Offshore reef exposed to open ocean swells, requiring good conditions for safe snorkeling.
Wildlife Guide
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Mackeral Boulder is located approximately 2-3 km offshore from Byron Bay, near Julian Rocks. Access is by private boat or guided charter from Byron Bay or Brunswick Heads boat ramps. The site lies within the Cape Byron Marine Park.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at the Byron Bay boat ramp (Kennedy Drive) or Brunswick Heads boat ramp.
parkingboat_ramp
No direct entry fee, but Cape Byron Marine Park rules apply. Seasonal fishing/spearfishing closures (May–December) affect access.
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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