Shiprock is a distinctive sandstone headland and rocky platform located at the southern end of Cronulla Beach in Sydney's Sutherland Shire. This exposed offshore rock formation creates a fascinating snorkeling terrain with ledges, gutters, and sandy patches at its base. The site offers clear water on calm days and is known as a popular shore-entry spot for those exploring the shallows along the Bate Bay coastline, where the submerged reef structure supports a variety of marine life. Best tackled on a flat, low-swell day with high visibility.
Shiprock
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.4 mSwell Period 7.3 sWind Speed 1.9 knPrecipitation 8.3 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Ocean swell and surge
Exposed to southerly swells that can create strong surge around the rock ledges
Low risk: Sharp sandstone ledges
Uneven sandstone reef platforms with sharp edges that can cause cuts
Low risk: Changing tide currents
Tidal movement around the headland can produce unexpected currents
Low risk: Limited beach access
Access involves walking across exposed rock platform which can be slippery when wet
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Located at the southern end of Cronulla Beach, accessible via Nicholson Parade, Cronulla. Park along Nicholson Parade or at the nearby public carpark at Shelly Beach. Walk south along Cronulla Beach towards the headland; the rock platform and Shiprock are at the southernmost point. Alternatively, access via Oak Park or Shelly Beach reserve.
Parking & facilities
Street parking available along Nicholson Parade and nearby streets. Paid parking may apply during peak summer months.
parkingtoiletsshowers
No entry fee. Paid parking in some areas during summer.
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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