Status Rock is a renowned dive and snorkel site perched just off the headland at Seal Rocks on NSW's Mid North Coast. The rock's sheer sides plunge to a sandy bottom at 12 metres, with a pronounced overhang that shelters wobbegong and Port Jackson sharks, while surrounding bommies and gutters attract grey nurse sharks. Light kelp and sponge growth decorates the rocky reef, and the site is sheltered from prevailing swell — though the narrow gap between Status Rock and the headland can funnel swell in certain conditions. Access is possible from shore for the very motivated, making this a rewarding spot for intermediate-level snorkelers.
Status Rock
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.8 mSwell Period 8.6 sWind Speed 1.7 knPrecipitation 0.1 mmTidal Phase slack
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Navigation on Sandy Bottom
Straying too far onto the surrounding sand can make it difficult to navigate back to the reef — stay within visual range of the rock reef.
Low risk: Funnelled Swell in Gap
In certain conditions, swell can become concentrated in the narrow passage between Status Rock and the headland, creating strong surge.
Low risk: Rocky Reef and Overhangs
Sharp reef structure and overhangs require care when entering and exiting the water, especially in surge conditions.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Status Rock is located off the headland at Seal Rocks, a small coastal village south of Forster and Hawks Nest on the Mid North Coast of NSW. From the Pacific Highway, take the exit north of Bulahdelah onto The Lakes Way, then follow Seal Rocks Road for approximately 35 km (30 min) to the village.
Parking & facilities
Limited parking is available in Seal Rocks village near the beach access points. Spaces fill quickly during peak season.
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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