

Best for beginner divers, 12-21m, shore entry, mild current.
Bridgewater Beach in Portland offers a shore-entry reef dive suitable for beginners. The site features depths ranging from 12 to 21 metres, with visibility typically between 12 and 21 metres. Divers should exercise caution, as the eastern end of the beach contains strong, permanent rip currents. The western side provides calmer water and gentler waves. Water temperatures remain cool, ranging from 14C to 18C, necessitating appropriate thermal protection. Species recorded around this area include long-nosed fur seals, elephant sharks, sea stars, abalone, and snails. Whales are occasionally sighted during the summer months. Parking is available at the site, though no rinse facilities are provided.
-38.37067, 141.40495
Visit between December and March for the calmest conditions and best chance of whale sightings alongside the resident fur seals. Rinse facilities are not listed on site, so bring your own fresh water for gear and a warm change of clothes given the cold water temperatures.
Access is from the shore. Free parking is available at the beach entrance, with additional street parking nearby. The western side of the beach is patrolled by the Portland Surf Life Saving Club and is the safest entry point.
The summer months from December to March offer the warmest weather and water temperatures, making it the most popular time for beach activities including snorkeling.
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Depth
12-21m
Visibility
12-21m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
14-18°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec
Species recorded around this area include long-nosed fur seals, elephant sharks, sea stars, abalone, and snails. Whales may also be sighted during the summer months.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, though divers must be aware of strong, permanent rip currents on the eastern side of the beach.
The depth ranges from 12 to 21 metres, with an average depth of 12 metres.
This is a shore dive with entry directly from the beach.
Snorkelling is possible, though the site has a low snorkel rating of 1/5 due to conditions.
The best months to visit are January, February, March, and December, which offer the warmest water temperatures and calmest conditions.
Diving at Bridgewater Beach in Great Ocean Road requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Bridgewater Beach in Great Ocean Road. Water temperatures range from 14°C to 18°C.
Bridgewater Beach in Great Ocean Road typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Bridgewater Beach in Great Ocean Road typically ranges from 12 metres to 21 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.