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C.Y. O'Connor Beach

BeginnerMAYBE
MAYBE

Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.

Showing last known conditions

Wave Height 0.8 mSwell Period 11 sWind Speed 1.6 knPrecipitation 0.6 mmTidal Phase ebb

Last evaluated

Primary photo of C.Y. O'Connor Beach

The spot

Community-maintained

Community contribution: submitted by Daniel

C.Y. O'Connor Beach in North Coogee is a tranquil stretch of shore recently transformed by Australia's first engineered fringing artificial reef, built just 30 metres offshore to combat erosion and now teeming with marine life. Snorkellers glide over reef modules where over 50 fish species have been recorded, amid clear sheltered waters. The beach also holds historic interest — a statue of engineer C.Y. O'Connor stands in the shallows, and the rusting hulk of the SS Wyola lies beached nearby, adding a touch of maritime character to this dog-friendly, family-oriented snorkel spot.

Know before you go

Logged by the community, confirmed by mods

  • Low risk: Marine Vessels

    The beach is popular with boats and jet skis; stay within the marked snorkel area near the artificial reef.

  • Low risk: Variable Currents

    Slight currents can develop around the reef modules, especially during tidal changes.

  • Low risk: Submerged reef structures

    The artificial reef structures are submerged close to shore; swimmers should be aware of their positions to avoid accidental contact.

  • Low risk: Crowded conditions (peak summer)

    During summer holidays and weekends the beach can be busy with swimmers, snorkellers and dog owners sharing the same water.

  • Low risk: Afternoon sea breeze chop

    Occasional afternoon sea breezes can create choppy surface conditions.

  • Low risk: Artificial reef submerged structures

    The artificial reef lies in shallow water near shore, but inexperienced swimmers should be cautious of reef module edges and submerged structures.

  • Low risk: Marine stingers (bluebottles)

    As with all Perth beaches, marine stingers (bluebottles) may drift inshore during warmer months, particularly from November to April.

  • Low risk: Shark risk near fishing activity

    Sharks may be attracted to fishing activity near the reef; avoid snorkelling near fishers or during dawn/dusk.

Wildlife Guide

No wildlife notes for this spot yet.

5 photos from the community

Getting in

Shore entry
Entry

Located in North Coogee, south of Fremantle, along the coast road off Cockburn Road. Access via the CY O'Connor Reserve car park.

Parking & facilities

Car parking available at CY O'Connor Reserve off the coast road in North Coogee.

parkingtoilets

Free entry

Spot Map

Community

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Gallery ┬╖ 5 photos

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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