A helpful guide featuring everything you need to know about Perth’s most popular dive-spot, Omeo Wreck in Coogee.
Pack your favourite flippers and beach umbrella, and dive into one WA’s most unique attractions this summer.
Located approximately 25m from the shore of Coogee Beach, Omeo Wreck is an award-winning archaeological treasure at the heart of the Coogee Maritime Trail.
Consisting of breathtaking artificial reefs, an underwater gallery and special access to marine life, this family-friendly underwater exhibition is the ultimate paradise for snorkelers and divers.
The famous shipwreck came adrift from Fremantle Port in 1905 after a series of fatal collisions and bogged on the shore of Coogee beach where it continues to gradually fall apart.
So without further a due, here’s everything you need to know about Omeo Wreck to plan your next visit.
About the Shipwreck
Omeo Wreck is a federally protected iron steamship built in Newcastle, England in 1858 that played a significant role in Australian international and inter-colonial trade over many years.
It was used by the Overland Telegraph to link Australia with Britain through Singapore, and later carried passengers and cargo between Adelaide, Melbourne and New Zealand.
After a series of fatal collisions with the Swan Spit Lighthouse in 1881 and a steamship at Sydney Harbour, the run-down vessel was converted to a coal hulk.
The abandoned hulk came adrift from Fremantle Port in 1905 and washed up on the shore of Coogee Beach, much to the excitement of shipwreck enthusiasts and Perth locals.
What To Do
Bring a snorkel or dive buddy and explore WA’s one-of-a-kind archaeological and maritime trail, while immersing yourself in the crystal-clear waters and white-sandy shores of Northern Coogee.
The underwater exhibition is submerged in 2-7 meters of water and continues 200m West along the Southern Breakwater.
Its exquisite underwater gallery features more than 50 art installations, including the Stella Maris giant sea star, sea lion sculpture, old railway wheel and anchor, fish trap, Dutch replica cannon, and more.
The artificial reefs contain cave-like spaces where you’re likely to spot an abundance of aquatic life such as cuttlefish, crayfish, molluscs, starfish, octopus and crabs.
If you’re lucky, you might observe a passing seal or dolphin.
While you’re at it, don’t forget to read the educational plaques and familiarise yourself with Omeo Wreck and WA’s maritime history.
Watch: Little busy at the Omeo Wreck
What Not To Do
While Coogee Beach is generally well protected, here are a few safety guidelines issued by the City of Cockburn to ensure the safety of swimmers, marine life and the shipwreck itself.
For one, fishing or boating in the area is strictly prohibited. Avoid standing or climbing on any of the trail features, and do not take any part of the shipwreck.
Coral cuts are extremely painful and exceptionally difficult to clean, so resist touching the reef or shipwreck with bare hands. Better yet, bring a pair of scuba diving gloves for extra safety.
Finally, keep an eye out for other snorkelers and divers circling the trail during peak periods.
Location and Parking
The Coogee Maritime trail can easily be accessed via Socrates Parade in North Coogee.
Simply follow the stairs leading from Socrates Parade into the ocean, and swim toward the protruding ship sternpost and bow triangle.
Another point of entry is available through the beach access path from Perlinte View in North Coogee, just 350m from Omeo Wreck.
Fortunately for visitors, free parking is available in a number of areas including Chieftain Esplanade, Socrates Parade, Lucretia Edwards Shoreline Park and nearby streets.
Since finding an empty bay can get fierce during public holidays and weekends, we highly recommend arriving nice and early around 6 or 7am to get a head start.
Facilities and Services
There are many great public services and facilities near Omeo Wreck, both within driving and walking distance.
The Coogee Beach Public toilets are just a three-minute drive from Socrates Parade and include outdoor showers and changing rooms.
Public toilets are also available at Port Coogee Village Shopping centre on Marine Parade, located just 100m from the Maritime trail.
This small-shopping complex has everything you need, including a Woolies, local chemist, news agency, and additional delicious eateries like Kim’s Fish and Chips.
The land-based trail also offers undercover picnic tables and lawned grass areas where you can soak up the sun and enjoy a spectacular view of Perth’s sunset or if you’re an early-bird, the calm waters of a Perth sunrise.
Cafes and Eateries
If you’re feeling snacky or in desperate need of a caffeine boost, there are several cafes and eateries near Omeo Wreck to satisfy your empty stomach.
Beachpoint Cafe is a cute-family owned cafe situated on Perlinte view, just a three-minute drive from the Coogee Maritime trail.
Open from 6am till 3pm every day, their homemade Belgian Waffles, French Toast and Mushroom Feta and Spinach Omelette are the talk of the town.
Make sure to pay also pay a visit to the Grind Reaper, a dog-friendly cafe known for their amazing Jaffles and delicious coffee and milkshakes.
Operating between 5:30 am to 2pm on weekdays, this local treasure offers indoor and outdoor seating, a spectacular view of the Marina and extra room for your beloved pooch.
Featured image: Instagram @jr_aerial_imagery
Don’t forget to share your Omeo Wreck experiences with us on Instagram via @so.perth and #soperth.
Discover the best of Perth travel inspiration on SoPerth.com.au.
