Moonta Bay, on the western coast of Yorke Peninsula's Copper Coast, is a sheltered family favourite set on the calm shores of Spencer Gulf. The long jetty extends into shallow, crystal-clear waters (2–4 m deep) where colourful pylons encrusted with algae and seagrass form a thriving artificial reef. The iconic swimming enclosure — shark-netted and protected from waves — makes it a safe, easy-entry spot for all ages. Schools of fish, crabs, nudibranchs, and the occasional pyjama squid or Port Jackson shark flit around the jetty supports, while lucky snorkellers might spot seahorses or even a playful sea lion.
Moonta Bay
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.4 mSwell Period 12 sWind Speed 1.3 knPrecipitation 9.5 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
© MattinbgnThe spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Low risk: Boat traffic near jetty
Fishing and recreational boats operate around the jetty structure; stay within the swimming enclosure for safety.
Low risk: Rocky reef and pylons
Submerged rocks and jetty pylons are present in the shallow water; wear reef shoes and watch your footing.
Low risk: Slippery jetty steps
Entry and exit steps can be slippery with algae; take care when entering and leaving the water.
Low risk: Jetty traffic & fishing lines
Active fishing jetty — watch for fishing lines, hooks, and boats near the jetty structure.
Low risk: Shallow reef edges
Rocky reef and seagrass beds border the swimming area — avoid scraping against sharp reef structure.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
3 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Approximately 165–168 km north-west of Adelaide via the A1 (Port Wakefield Rd) and then B85 through Kadina. Follow the signs to Moonta and then Moonta Bay.
Parking & facilities
Car parking is available near the jetty and foreshore area.
toiletsparkingshowerspicnic_tables
Snorkel tours (with gear hire) have ticket fees for adults and children. The boat ramp nearby charges ~$8/day via EasyPark app. Free shore entry for self-guided snorkelling.
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Gallery ┬╖ 3 photos
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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