Short Pier is a shallow, sheltered snorkeling spot on the eastern side of Clifton Springs Boat Harbour on the Bellarine Peninsula, Port Phillip. The waters are calm and protected from southerly winds, making it ideal for beginner snorkelers. The site features the historic ruins of the old Short Pier (Drysdale Jetty), a Victorian Heritage-listed structure, with a sandy seabed reaching just 1–4 m depth. Best explored at high tide, this artificial-reef-like environment teems with seahorses, nudibranchs, stingrays, and pipefish among the submerged pier remnants.
Short Pier
BeginnerMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.6 mSwell Period 9.6 sWind Speed 7.5 knPrecipitation 42 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Boat traffic near harbour
The site is adjacent to the Clifton Springs Boat Harbour with boat ramps. Snorkelers should use a dive float with flag and stay aware of vessels.
Low risk: Shallow depth at low tide
The site is only 1–4 m deep and best done at high tide. At low tide snorkelers may encounter very shallow water or exposed structure.
Low risk: Sand and sediment disturbance
Bottle hunting and fin kicks can easily stir up sand and sediment, reducing visibility. Snorkelers should avoid finning near the bottom.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Short Pier is located on the eastern side of Clifton Springs Boat Harbour, Clifton Springs, on the Bellarine Peninsula. From Geelong, take the Bellarine Highway towards Drysdale, then turn south onto Clifton Springs Road. Follow to the foreshore. The snorkel entry is off the beach near the boat harbour, adjacent to the old pier ruins.
Parking & facilities
Ample parking is available near the Clifton Springs Boat Harbour, including spaces for cars and boat trailers. Additional parking is located on the bluffs above the beach.
toiletsparkingpicnic_tablesboat_ramp
Free entry. No fees required.
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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