

Best for beginner divers, 2-14m, shore entry, mild current.
Shelly Beach in Manly is a protected shore dive and snorkel site featuring a rocky reef that ranges from 2 to 14 metres in depth. The site is well-suited for beginners due to its mild currents and straightforward navigation. Divers and snorkellers can access the water via a concrete boat ramp, avoiding the need to cross sand. Visibility typically fluctuates between 3 and 20 metres. On-site facilities include parking, toilets, showers, and a cafe. The site is also suitable for night diving, with an average dive time of 50 minutes. Water temperatures range from 18C to 24C, though conditions can feel cool during rainy periods.
-33.80049, 151.29762
July through October brings the best visibility and the highest chance of encountering Port Jackson sharks and giant cuttlefish, so plan your trip around those months if you can. Parking, toilets, showers, and a cafe are all on site, so there is no need to rush out of the water.
Access is via Shelley Beach in Manly. There is a paid car park at the beach, with free street parking further up the hill. Gear can be dropped off near the beach before parking. Entry is a simple walk into the water from the sand.
A new amenities block includes accessible toilets and showers. A concrete boat ramp provides access to the water's edge without needing to cross sand, and there is an accessible parking bay nearby.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 14m
Visibility
3-20m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
18-24°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Yes, the site is well-suited for beginners due to its protected nature and mild currents.
The rocky reef at this site extends from 2 to 14 metres, with an average depth of 10 metres.
This is a shore dive with access provided by a concrete boat ramp leading to the water's edge.
Yes, Shelly Beach is used for both diving and snorkelling activities.
Divers should be mindful of boat traffic, surge, and the presence of stonefish and sharks.
Diving at Shelly Beach in Manly requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Shelly Beach in Manly. Water temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C.
The best months to visit Shelly Beach in Manly are July, August, September, October, March, April, May, and June. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Shelly Beach in Manly typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Shelly Beach in Manly typically ranges from 3 metres to 20 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.