Shelving Beach, on the north-eastern side of Great Keppel Island, offers one of the easiest and most rewarding snorkelling experiences in the Southern Great Barrier Reef. A short 200-metre bush track from the island's main accommodation leads to a crescent of white sand fringed by a shallow, protected bay. The fringing coral reef lies just metres from shore — in waist-deep water — making it ideal for beginner snorkellers and families. Colourful coral bommies, schools of reef fish, stingrays, and the occasional green turtle are common sights. The site is sheltered from prevailing winds and swells, providing calm, clear conditions through much of the year.
Shelving Beach
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Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 3.3 sWind Speed 1.0 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Marine stingers (Nov–May)
Box jellyfish and Irukandji may be present in coastal waters from November to May.
Low risk: Low tide shallow reef
At very low tides the reef flat becomes extremely shallow, increasing risk of coral contact and abrasion.
Low risk: Outgoing tide current
A mild current can develop around the rocky headland at the eastern end of the beach during outgoing tides.
Low risk: Sun exposure
Limited shade on the beach and over the reef; extended snorkelling sessions increase sunburn risk.
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Getting in
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Entry
Shelving Beach is on Great Keppel Island, accessible by ferry from Rosslyn Bay Marina (near Yeppoon, ~40 km east of Rockhampton). From the ferry landing at Fisherman's Beach, walk north along the main track for about 10 minutes to reach the beach. Several operators (e.g. Keppel Dive & Snorkel, Freedom Fast Cats) run daily ferry services to the island.
Parking & facilities
Free long-term parking is available at Rosslyn Bay Marina car park on Denham Street, Yeppoon. Arrive early during peak holiday periods as spaces fill quickly.
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Ferry transfers cost approximately $55–65 per adult return. Snorkel equipment hire from the island hut is around $15–25 per day.
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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