We’re well aware the Perth coast boasts some of the best crystal clear waters and sandy shores around, but it’s also teeming with colourful underwater wildlife and glorious coral filled reefs to explore.

Whether you’re a complete novice or a mermaid underwater, there are plenty of options for all levels of snorkel ability along the coastline.

Grab your fins and mask and get ready to mix up your weekend plans by getting out and about with a bit of snorkelling fun under the sun. Who knows, it might just become your new fave pastime.

1. Mettams Pool

If you’re any kind of snorkel fan in Perth you’ve likely meandered down to Mettams Pool on a hot summer day. 

The sheltered lagoon is a fave among locals because of its tendency to more often than not be in completely calm conditions. It’s perfect for beginners who are braving the seas for the first time, or experienced snorkelers who want to venture out a bit further. There’s plenty of marine life to watch out for along the limestone reef, plus a few good coffee spots across the road after a long day of swimming. 

• Level: Beginner
• Location: West Coast Drive, North Beach

2. Coogee Maritime Trail

After the boom of Omeo Shipwreck stair pics on Instagram, it seems just about everyone wants to take a dive here. 

The popular snorkel shipwreck is still undergoing some awesome developments and is currently a full-blown maritime trail for snorkel-goers. The old shipwreck is just a few steps away from shore and is the perfect place to explore for beginners and snorkelers who want an easy, breezy underwater adventure. There are over 55 structures to discover, with everything from a Mystery Railway wheel to a selfie porthole. 

• Level: Beginner
• Location: 44 Socrates Parade, North Coogee

3. Carnac Island Nature Reserve

Jump on a tour from Freo and head out to Carnac Island for a close-up glimpse at some totally adorable sea puppies. 

Home to the Australian sea lion, bottlenose dolphins and a large range of marine bird life, there’s no shortage of sea friends to make in the waters here. If you’re lucky you might even get to swim alongside some. 

• Level: Beginner – Intermediate
• Location: 44 Socrates Parade, North Coogee

4. Rottnest Island

There’s a reason Rotto is one of our favourite places in the world, and it’s not just the breathtaking views.

When it comes to snorkelling, there’s no better place than our iconic island to explore colourful reefs and caves galore. There’s such a variety of bays to discover on your ride around the island, from the calm waters of Little Salmon to the ghostly wreck of Henrietta Bay.

Some of our personal favourite spots include:

• Little Parakeet Bay
• The Basin
• Fish Hook Bay
• Parker Point
• Little Armstrong
• Henrietta Bay
• Jeannie’s Pool

The list doesn’t end there though, it’s all up to you to explore and find hidden snorkel gems (just let us in on the secret).

• Level: Beginner – Advanced
• Location: Rottnest Island, WA

5. Shoalwater Islands Marine Park

For those more South, or those willing to make a trip, Shoalwater Islands Marine Park is your best bet for catching a peep at penguins, sea lions or bottlenose dolphins.

The snorkel haven is made up of Shoalwater Bay, Warnbro Sound and a small part of Cockburn Sound, as well as some islands. The cavernous reefs provide plenty to explore for avid divers, with the best time to catch perfect conditions in the early morning before the wind sets in.

• Level: Intermediate – Advanced
• Location: 153 Arcadia Dr, Rockingham

6. Burns Beach

Burns Beach might not be the first place that pops into mind when you’re on the hunt for snorkel spots, but it’s a real gem.

The smaller, picturesque beach is home to a sheltered reef perfect for beginners and families to take on, although if you’re heading out further we’d recommend having a little more experience. The reef stretches well beyond the shore and is home to a colourful array of fish including the evasive Dhufish.

• Level: Beginner
• Location: Burns Beach Road, Burns Beach

7. Yanchep Lagoon

The calm, crystal clear waters of Yanchep Lagoon have been enticing swimmers and snorkelers alike all along Perth.

The southern lagoon beach and south end of the main lagoon are well protected from the elements and perfect for the kids or less confident swimmers to splash around in and explore some of the wonderful underwater wildlife and vibrant coral.

• Level: Beginner
• Location: Yanchep, WA

8. Point Peron and Mushroom Rock

If you’re looking for some awesome underwater caves and crevices to explore, a special mention needs to be given to Point Peron and Mushroom Rock.

Point Peron is surrounded by the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park (mentioned earlier) but is one of our favourite spots of the lot because of its numerous small caves and swim-throughs making us feel like true mermaids.

Mushroom Rock is a popular snorkel spot distinguished by its limestone formation a bit further out where you can catch even more sea life and rocky reef.

• Level: Beginner – Intermediate
• Location: Point Peron Road, Point Peron

9. Cottesloe

The white sandy shores of Cottesloe are iconic in their own right, but it’s often not known that great snorkelling can be found along the coast here.

The long stretch of beach south of the Cottesloe Groyne is easily accessible for snorkelers of all abilities to glide out and spot a few sea dwellers. Peters Pool is also another popular spot for many, and when you’re done you can head up for a glass of wine as you watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean. Seriously, name a better way to spend your day.

• Level: Beginner
• Location: Cottesloe Beach, Cottesloe

10. Boyinaboat Reef

Just 75 metres from the sea wall of Hillarys Boat Harbour, Boyinaboat Reef is a sanctuary zone brimming with fish and other marine life.

Ten informational plaques will guide you as you explore along the reefy outcrops and caves looking for fish, crayfish and other marine life. The six-meter deep reef is a little harder to access, so it’s recommended you take a buddy who’s a bit more experienced if you aren’t super confident.

• Level: Intermediate – Advanced
• Location: Hillarys, WA (Park behind AQWA on Southside Drive)

Feature Image: @rottnestsnorkel

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