The Pinnacles is a boat-access reef dive site off the south-eastern coast of Phillip Island, jutting into the wild Bass Strait waters near Cape Woolamai. This exposed offshore reef features rocky pinnacles and ledges that rise from the ocean floor, encrusted with vibrant sponge gardens and kelp forests. Known for its abundant marine life, the site attracts experienced snorkelers and divers seeking crayfish (southern rock lobster), colourful reef fish, and the chance to spot weedy sea dragons in the surge zone. The dramatic underwater topography and exposure to ocean swells make it a thrilling but challenging spot best visited in calm conditions.
The Pinnacles
AdvancedMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.8 mSwell Period 12 sWind Speed 6.0 knPrecipitation 20 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
DANGER: Explicit Risks Present
The Pinnacles has hazards marked as danger. Entering the water here means you may face serious risks to your personal safety.
- Strong ocean swells danger
Exposed to Bass Strait swells, the site can experience powerful surge and rough conditions, especially in southerly winds.
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
High risk: Strong ocean swells
Exposed to Bass Strait swells, the site can experience powerful surge and rough conditions, especially in southerly winds.
Moderate risk: Strong currents
Tidal currents running through Bass Strait can be strong around the reef pinnacles.
Low risk: Boat traffic
The site is accessed by boat and lies in a channel with vessel traffic in the area.
Low risk: Cold water temperatures
Bass Strait waters range from 12-18°C, requiring a thick wetsuit or drysuit year-round.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
The Pinnacles is located off Cape Woolamai on Phillip Island, approximately 90 minutes south-east of Melbourne. The site is only accessible by boat — launch from the Cape Woolamai boat ramp or nearby San Remo. Rough coordinates: 38°40'30"S, 145°25'30"E.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at the Cape Woolamai Beach car park and boat ramp area.
parkingboat_ramp
No direct fees for snorkelling, but a Parks Victoria vehicle entry fee may apply at Cape Woolamai. Boat launching fees may apply at the ramp.
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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