Just north of the Darlington jetty on Tasmania's Maria Island lies a boulder reef that delivers one of Tasmania's most accessible shore-entry snorkels. The reef drops into exceptionally clear, protected waters where large southern rock lobsters, bastard trumpeter, banded morwong and boarfish are regularly spotted among the boulders and kelp forests. Part of the world-renowned Maria Island Marine Reserve (established 1991), this site offers rich temperate marine life with minimal current on calm days, making it a must-do for snorkellers visiting the east coast.
Maria Island Marine Reserve (boulder reef north of jetty)
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Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 4.1 sWind Speed 0.8 knPrecipitation 0.6 mmTidal Phase slack
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Variable weather and swell
Exposed to east coast weather systems; southerly winds and sudden swell changes can reduce visibility and make shore exits difficult.
Low risk: Cold water temperatures
Tasmanian waters are cold year-round; a wetsuit (5mm+) is strongly recommended for comfort and safety.
Low risk: Rocky shore entry
Entry and exit is over boulders and rocks which can be slippery, especially if wet or lined with seaweed.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Access is via the Maria Island ferry from Triabunna (about 30 min crossing). From the Darlington jetty on Maria Island, follow the shoreline north approximately 100–200 m to the boulder reef. The island is a national park — no private vehicles allowed; explore on foot or by bicycle.
Parking & facilities
Park at the Triabunna ferry terminal car park (fees apply for long stays). On Maria Island, no vehicle access — bikes and walking only.
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Maria Island National Park entry fee applies (booked via Parks Pass). Ferry fare from Triabunna is additional.
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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