

Best for beginner divers, 2-10m, shore entry, mild current.
Fairy Bower Beach is a shore dive located in Manly, situated between Manly Beach and Shelly Beach within the Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve. The site features a rocky reef system, kelp forests, and seagrass beds at depths of 2 to 10 metres, averaging 6 metres. It is generally sheltered from strong currents and swells, though surge can occur near the rocks. Entry is via stairs and a rock pool. The site is suitable for beginners, with visibility ranging from 3 to 20 metres. Facilities include toilets, showers, changing rooms, and a nearby cafe. Divers should be aware of boat traffic, sea urchins, and surge.
-33.80075, 151.29401
February brings the best conditions, with calmer seas and better visibility, so if you can pick your timing, that is the month to aim for. Enter slowly and scan the kelp carefully at a slow pace, as weedy sea dragons blend in remarkably well and are easy to swim past.
Access is via a small set of steps on the Marine Parade walkway between Manly Beach and Shelly Beach, next to the Fairy Bower sea pool. Parking is very limited, especially on weekends; paid and street parking can be found in Manly, followed by a short walk.
The primary access is via stairs, which is not wheelchair accessible.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 10m
Visibility
3-20m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
18-24°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Dec
The site supports a variety of marine life within its reef, kelp, and seagrass habitats, though specific species observations are not recorded for this location.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners due to its shallow depths and generally mild currents within the protected aquatic reserve.
Depths at Fairy Bower Beach range from 2 to 10 metres, with an average depth of 6 metres.
This is a shore dive with entry via stairs and a rock pool.
Yes, the site is suitable for both diving and snorkelling.
The best months to visit are February, January, July, August, September, October, December, March, April, and May.
Diving at Fairy Bower Beach in Manly requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Fairy Bower Beach in Manly. Water temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C.
Fairy Bower Beach in Manly typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Fairy Bower Beach in Manly typically ranges from 3 metres to 20 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.