Tucked into the wild southern edge of Tasmania's Southwest National Park, Recherche Bay (Boltons Green) offers a serene temperate snorkeling experience where the dense eucalypt forest meets crystal-clear waters. This sheltered bay on the D'Entrecasteaux Channel is known for its calm, protected shoreline — a perfect entry point into Tasmania's cool, nutrient-rich marine environment. The shallow rocky reefs and sandy patches near the campground provide excellent visibility for spotting colorful temperate fish, seadragons, and crustaceans in the bay's pristine waters. Access is via the southernmost driveable point of Tasmania's road network at Cockle Creek.
Recherche Bay (Boltons Green)
BeginnerMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.2 mSwell Period 13 sWind Speed 3.5 knPrecipitation 2.7 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
© ChuqThe spot
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Variable Weather
The exposed southern location can bring sudden weather changes, strong winds, and roughening seas with little warning.
Low risk: Cold Water Temperature
Tasmanian waters are temperate and can be very cold (10-16°C year-round) — prolonged exposure may cause hypothermia without a wetsuit.
Low risk: Strong Tidal Flow
The D'Entrecasteaux Channel experiences moderate tidal currents that can push swimmers away from shore.
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Gallery
3 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Drive south from Hobart via the Huon Highway (A6) through Geeveston to the end of the road at Cockle Creek. Continue past Cockle Creek to the Boltons Green campground at Recherche Bay — it's the southernmost vehicle-accessible point in Tasmania. Approximately 2 hours from Hobart.
Parking & facilities
Unsealed gravel parking area available at Boltons Green campground near the water's edge.
toiletsparkingpicnic_tables
Camping fees apply for overnight stays; day use is free. Check Parks Tasmania website for current national park pass requirements.
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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