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.
C.Y. O'Connor Beach
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
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The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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.
Gallery
5 photos from the community
Getting in
Located in North Coogee, south of Fremantle, along the coast road off Cockburn Road. Access via the CY O'Connor Reserve car park.
Car parking available at CY O'Connor Reserve off the coast road in North Coogee.
Free entry
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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.