Pearse's Beach (Blairgowrie ocean side)

Moderate risk: Rough surf and swell

Ocean-facing beach with powerful waves and dumpers, especially as tides change. Not recommended for weak swimmers.

Moderate risk: Rocks and reef hazards

Submerged rocky reefs border the cove and extend into the water, presenting a cutting/scraping risk to snorkellers.

Moderate risk: Rip Currents

Strong rips and currents are common along this exposed ocean beach, particularly around the rocky headlands. Swim with caution and only at mid to high tide.

Moderate risk: Sudden Weather Changes

Water conditions can change rapidly with shifting wind and swell. Bass Strait is exposed to Southern Ocean swells and strong southerly winds.

Moderate risk: Swell and rip currents

Strong ocean swells and rips can develop, especially during southerly winds. The back beaches of the Mornington Peninsula are exposed to Bass Strait conditions.

Moderate risk: Ocean swells and rip currents

The Back Beaches along this coast can experience strong and unpredictable ocean swells, particularly in winter.

Moderate risk: Unpatrolled beach

No lifeguards or patrols at this remote beach; self-safety is essential.

Low risk: Tide-dependent bathing depth

Swimming is only safe at mid-to-high tide; at low tide water recedes significantly exposing reef and rocks.

Low risk: Limited Beach at High Tide

The beach is steep and narrow at high tide, with limited dry sand. At high tide the water reaches the backshore rocks, leaving little room to exit the water safely.

Low risk: Submerged Rocks & Slippery Surfaces

Uneven, slippery rocks at the water's edge and submerged rocks just offshore pose a hazard when entering and exiting the water.

Low risk: Tide-dependent access

Best snorkeling at mid-to-high tide; low tide exposes rocks and reduces accessible water depth significantly.

Low risk: Sharp rocks and barnacles

Sharp barnacle-covered rock platforms and ledges are present along the shoreline and in the snorkeling gullies.

Low risk: Rocky ledges and gutters

Rocky ledges and gutters close to shore can be hazardous in rough conditions, with risk of being washed against rocks.