Tinderbox Marine Reserve is a sheltered coastal sanctuary just 30 minutes south of Hobart, centred on a petite sandy beach flanked by sandstone reefs. The shallow, calm waters host a delightful underwater trail through kelp gardens and rocky gulches, where snorkellers can spot weedy seadragons, smooth rays, and colourful temperate fish. The reserve's no-fishing zone keeps marine life abundant and curious, making it an ideal spot for beginners and families wanting a safe, accessible introduction to Tasmania's rich temperate waters.
Tinderbox Marine Reserve
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.2 mSwell Period 4.8 sWind Speed 7.0 knPrecipitation 2.8 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Low risk: Sharp sandstone reef
Sandstone reef edges can be sharp and slippery underfoot when entering or exiting the water.
Low risk: Tidal current
Outgoing tides can create a gentle current around the bay's southern reef point; stay within the protected bay.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
1 photo from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Located 30 minutes south of Hobart via the Channel Highway; turn onto Fergusson Ave in Tinderbox and follow to the beach carpark.
Parking & facilities
Small car park at the end of Fergusson Ave; fills early on summer weekends.
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Free entry
Spot Map
Community
Gallery ┬╖ 1 photos
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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