Shelly Beach is a charming 150-metre northeast-facing sand beach tucked between rocky reefs and the southern headland at Moruya Heads, within Eurobodalla National Park. Calm waters, a low tide terrace and waves averaging 0.5–1 m make it ideal for leisurely swimming and snorkelling. The shallow reefs to the east and west of the beach offer excellent underwater exploration over kelp-covered rocks, rocky gutters and rock platforms rich with marine life. Backed by lush coastal vegetation and with stunning ocean views, this pretty spot is a peaceful alternative to busier beaches — perfect for a family day out exploring the Batemans Marine Park.
Shelly Beach (Moruya)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.9 mSwell Period 6.7 sWind Speed 10 knPrecipitation 16 mmTidal Phase slack
Last evaluated
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
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Moderate risk: Strong currents off headland
Tidal currents can develop around Moruya Heads and the mouth of the Moruya River nearby, so stay close inshore and within the protected beach area.
Low risk: Rocky reef and headland
Submerged and fringing rocks to the east and west of the beach require care when entering and exiting the water, especially in any swell.
Low risk: Ocean swell
Exposed to easterly and north-easterly swells; waves can break over submerged rocky ridges if there is any swell, making snorkelling conditions unsafe.
Low risk: Bluebottle jellyfish
Bluebottles (Physalia physalis) can be present on the NSW South Coast, particularly during northerly winds and warmer months (Oct–Apr).
Low risk: River current at depth
Possible river current from the nearby Moruya River mouth in deeper water, which can create unexpected drift.
Low risk: Low tide exposed rocks
Rocky reefs bordering the beach become exposed or very shallow at low tide, making entry and exit tricky in bare feet.
Low risk: Swells on exposed sides
While generally sheltered, ocean swells can affect the outer reef edges in easterly or north-easterly winds.
Low risk: Rocks and reef hazards
Submerged rocks and reef platforms border the beach to the east and west; cut feet possible without reef shoes.
Wildlife Guide
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
From Moruya, follow Coronation Drive towards Moruya Heads. Turn right at the top of Coronation Drive onto Shelly Beach Road and continue to the end where parking is available. The beach is a short walk from the car park within Eurobodalla National Park.
Parking & facilities
Parking is available at the end of Shelly Beach Road. Gravel car park area adjacent to the picnic grounds.
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No entry fee for Eurobodalla National Park at this location.
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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