Recherche Bay, at the southernmost reach of Australia's road network, is a serene, kidney-shaped bay fringed by ancient forests and calm, tannin-stained waters. Nestled within the Southwest National Park and accessible via Cockle Creek, this is where the bitumen ends and the wilderness begins. Snorkel in the sheltered shallows where French explorers anchored in 1792, exploring sandy inshore areas and quiet coves with a chance to spot temperate marine life. The water is bracing even in summer, but the solitude, historic resonance, and raw beauty of Tasmania's far south make it an unforgettable snorkeling destination.
Recherche Bay
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.2 mSwell Period 12 sWind Speed 7.6 knPrecipitation 2.7 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
© ChuqThe spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Cold Water Temperature
Water temperatures in Recherche Bay are very cold year-round, rarely exceeding 14-16°C in summer. Extended exposure can cause hypothermia without a suitable wetsuit.
Moderate risk: Remote Location
Cockle Creek is the end of the road — the nearest medical facilities are over 100 km away in Huonville. Self-sufficiency is essential.
Low risk: Variable Weather & Swell
The Southern Ocean influences this area; sudden weather changes, strong winds, and occasional swell can create challenging conditions in the bay.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
3 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Drive south from Hobart via the Huon Highway (A6) through Huonville and Geeveston to Cockle Creek — the southernmost point accessible by vehicle in Australia. Approximately 2 hours from Hobart.
Parking & facilities
Small 5-10 vehicle parking area at the road closure at Cockle Creek, plus overflow near the campground.
toiletsparking
Southwest National Park Pass required. Daily pass available online. Camping is free.
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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