Toothbrush Island (South), also known as Flinders Island's southern end, is a renowned shore-entry snorkel and dive site just off Sydney's coastline. The "South" section features the rocky toothbrush-shaped islet that gives the site its name, with depths reaching around 16 metres. Underwater, snorkelers can explore two impressive caves and a swim-through passage affectionately nicknamed "Toothpaste" — a narrow channel between the island's southern tip and the adjacent reef. The kelp forests and rocky ledges here attract abundant fish life, making it a favourite for those seeking a more adventurous, off-the-beaten-path Sydney snorkel.
Toothbrush Island (South)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.4 mSwell Period 6.6 sWind Speed 5.2 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Ocean swell and surge
Exposed southern aspect can experience significant swell and surge, especially in southerly winds, making entry/exit tricky.
Low risk: Strong currents
Tidal currents can run swiftly around the island's southern tip, particularly on outgoing tides.
Low risk: Boat traffic
The area is used by recreational and charter boats; snorkelers should stay aware and use a dive/snorkel float.
Low risk: Sharp reef and rock ledges
Entry and exit involve traversing uneven, sharp sandstone reef platforms.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Located off the coast between Cronulla and Kurnell in Botany Bay / Port Hacking area. Access is typically by boat from Cronulla or Bundeena, though some experienced snorkelers access via kayak launch from nearby beaches. Exact shore access requires local knowledge; most visitors approach by private or charter boat.
Parking & facilities
Limited street parking near Cronulla boat ramps or Bundeena wharf if launching a kayak. No parking directly at the island.
parking
No entry fee for the island itself. Charter boat fees vary.
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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