Discover the best places to snorkel in Australia

Australia is home to some of the most spectacular snorkelling destinations in the world. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life, it’s a paradise for underwater explorers.

Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeller or a beginner, Australia’s coastline provides endless opportunities for underwater adventures. If you’re looking to dive into these pristine waters, you’re in the right place.

Keep reading to uncover some of the top snorkelling locations—many of which can be explored through our luxurious True North cruises.

Rowley Shoals (Western Australia)

Rowley Shoals is one of the world’s most untouched coral atolls.

Known for its stunning underwater visibility, exaggerated coral formations, and vibrant marine life, it’s a snorkeller’s paradise. The three coral atolls that make up the Rowley Shoals are teeming with colourful fish, sea turtles, and even occasional reef sharks, offering an unforgettable snorkelling experience.

With crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine biodiversity, Rowley Shoals is a must-visit for anyone seeking an unspoiled and remote snorkelling destination.

The best part?

True North’s Coral Atoll Cruise offers direct access to this stunning underwater world.

Lord Howe Island (New South Wales)

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Lord Howe Island is a true snorkelling paradise.

Surrounded by the world’s southernmost coral reef, the island boasts incredibly diverse marine life and pristine, clear waters. The lagoon on the western side of the island is ideal for snorkelers, offering vibrant coral gardens, schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional reef shark. With easily accessible snorkelling right off the beach, Lord Howe Island is perfect for all experience levels.

Ningaloo Reef (Western Australia)

Ningaloo Reef is famous for its incredible marine encounters. As one of the world’s longest fringing reefs, it offers snorkellers easy access to vibrant coral gardens and an abundance of marine life. What truly sets Ningaloo apart is the opportunity to swim alongside some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures, including whale sharks and manta rays.

The shallow, crystal-clear waters of Ningaloo make it perfect for snorkelers of all levels. Whether you’re exploring the coral reefs or swimming with the giants of the sea, Ningaloo Reef promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This stunning location is a key highlight of True North’s West Coast Explorer cruise.

Great Barrier Reef (Queensland)

The Great Barrier Reef needs no introduction. As the largest coral reef system in the world, it’s a bucket-list destination for snorkellers everywhere.

With thousands of vibrant coral species, schools of colourful fish, sea turtles, and rays, the reef offers an unparalleled underwater experience. Snorkelling here is a surreal experience, with pristine waters and a dazzling array of marine life.

For those seeking the ultimate reef adventure, True North’s Great Barrier Reef Ultimate cruise offers an unforgettable journey through this world-renowned wonder.

The Kimberley (Western Australia)

While the Kimberley is famous for its dramatic landscapes, it also hides incredible underwater treasures. The region’s rugged coastline offers crystal-clear waters and a variety of unique marine life, making it a surprisingly rewarding snorkelling destination.

With its remote location and pristine beauty, the Kimberley’s snorkelling spots are best accessed by smaller, expedition-style cruises. True North’s Coast and Coral and Kimberley Ultimate cruises give you exclusive access to these hidden underwater gems, making your snorkelling adventure truly one-of-a-kind.

Freycinet Peninsula (Tasmania)

While Tasmania’s waters may be cooler, the Freycinet Peninsula offers a unique snorkelling experience unlike anywhere else in Australia. Home to vibrant kelp forests, rocky reefs, and a rich variety of marine life, snorkelling here is a chance to encounter weedy sea dragons, rays, and colourful fish species.

Wineglass Bay, with its crystal-clear waters, is a standout location for snorkelers looking to explore the hidden underwater gems of Tasmania.

Bremer Bay (Western Australia)

Bremer Bay is best known for its rich marine life, including orcas and dolphins. While it’s known for whale watching, the cooler waters of Bremer Bay also provide excellent snorkelling opportunities. The area’s underwater world is home to kelp forests, vibrant southern reef species, and schools of fish that thrive in these nutrient-rich waters.

For a truly immersive marine experience, True North’s Adventure South West cruise offers the chance to explore this lesser-known but incredibly rewarding snorkelling destination.

Eyre Peninsula (South Australia)

The Eyre Peninsula offers one of the most playful snorkelling experiences—swimming with sea lions. Known as the “puppies of the sea,” these curious and energetic creatures love interacting with snorkellers, making it a memorable and fun-filled underwater adventure.

The crystal-clear waters off the coast are also home to a variety of marine life, including rays, fish, and vibrant reefs, adding to the experience. True North’s Southern Safari cruise takes you through the pristine waters of the Eyre Peninsula, offering the rare opportunity to snorkel alongside these friendly sea lions.

Ready to dive into Australia’s best snorkelling spots?

Australia is home to some of the most diverse and untouched underwater ecosystems on the planet, where vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life create a snorkeller’s paradise.

To make the most of these incredible snorkelling destinations, consider embarking on one of True North’s luxurious Australian cruises. With exclusive access to remote and pristine locations, our cruises offer a perfect blend of adventure and comfort.

Explore our itineraries and book your next Australian cruise for a truly unforgettable snorkelling experience.