Point Lowly juts into upper Spencer Gulf on a slender spit of land crowned by a heritage lighthouse, offering one of the world's most extraordinary snorkelling spectacles. Each winter (May–August), tens of thousands of giant Australian cuttlefish gather in the shallow, sandy-bottomed waters just metres from shore, pulsing with hypnotic waves of colour. The snorkelling site is accessed via a 2WD track near 'The Chain Fence' on the Whyalla side of the Santos Port Bonython facility, where a picnic area and interpretive signs mark the entry point. Swim about 200 metres out in depths of just 3 metres for an up-close encounter with these intelligent cephalopods — a bucket-list experience for underwater enthusiasts.
Point Lowly
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 12 sWind Speed 4.7 knPrecipitation 8.1 mmTidal Phase ebb
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© State Government PhotographerThe spot
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
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Moderate risk: Outgoing Tide Current
Strong tidal flows through the narrow upper Spencer Gulf can create a significant outgoing current that may pull swimmers away from shore.
Low risk: Cold Water Temperature
Winter water temperatures (May–August) can drop below 14°C, requiring a thick wetsuit for comfortable and safe snorkelling.
Low risk: Industrial Vessel Traffic
Proximity to the Santos Port Bonython facility means occasional large vessel movements in the area; stay clear of shipping channels.
Low risk: Cold winter water temperatures
The giant cuttlefish season runs through winter (May–August) when water temperatures drop significantly. A thick wetsuit (5mm+) is strongly recommended.
Low risk: Limited facilities
Stony Point is a remote beach with minimal amenities. No toilets, showers, or lifeguard services on site — plan accordingly.
Low risk: Wind exposure
Winter months can bring strong southerly winds affecting water conditions. Check forecast before heading out.
Low risk: Sharp reef and rocks
The rocky seabed has sharp edges and uneven surfaces; wear booties or dive boots.
Low risk: Cold water temperatures
Water temperatures drop significantly in winter (12-14°C), requiring a thick wetsuit (5-7mm).
Low risk: Marine stingers
Bluebottles and other jellyfish are occasionally present in Spencer Gulf waters during warmer months.
Low risk: Sharp reef/rocks
Shallow rocky ledges and reef shelves near the point can cause cuts and scrapes if swimmers are careless or the water is rough.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
6 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
From Whyalla, drive east along the Point Lowly Lighthouse road (sealed). Just before the SANTOS Port Bonython facility, look for 'The Chain Fence' turnoff on the Whyalla side. Follow the 2WD gravel track to the sea, where a picnic area and cuttlefish information signs mark the snorkelling entry point.
Parking & facilities
Ample gravel parking available at the picnic area near the chain fence entry point.
parkingtoiletsshowerspicnic_tables
Camping $20–$20 per night; day-use snorkelling is free.
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Gallery ┬╖ 6 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