Turtle Cave is a sheltered reef line off Flat Rock near Port Macquarie on the Mid North Coast of NSW. Accessed predominantly by boat, this shallow site (max ~10m depth) offers a drift-friendly experience where snorkellers can swim among ledges and overhangs that attract a variety of reef fish. The cave-like features of the reef provide both protection from swell and an interesting underwater terrain to explore. Its proximity to the marine reserve means encounters with sea turtles and rays are common, making it a local favourite for snorkelling tours and small-group charters.
Turtle Cave
BeginnerMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 0.0 sWind Speed 2.3 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Low risk: Boat traffic
The site is accessed by boat and lies near a reef line where vessel traffic may be present. Snorkellers should remain vigilant and surface with caution.
Low risk: Drift current
The Turtle Cave line is known as a drift dive/snorkel site; mild to moderate currents can carry swimmers along the reef. Less confident swimmers should stay close to the boat or guide.
Wildlife Guide
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Turtle Cave is located off Flat Rock, approximately 2 km offshore from Oxley Beach / Port Macquarie on the NSW Mid North Coast. The spot is reached by private boat or via local snorkel/dive charter tours operating out of Port Macquarie.
Parking & facilities
Public parking is available at Oxley Beach carpark, off Pacific Drive, Port Macquarie.
parkingtoilets
No site-specific fee, but charter tour costs apply if booking with a local operator.
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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