

Best for intermediate divers, 1-10m, shore entry, strong current.
Step Beach, located within the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary, features a shallow reef and kelp forest environment reaching depths of 10 metres. The site is characterised by Bull Kelp and Neptune's Necklace, with a topography that suits intermediate snorkelers and divers. Due to its exposure, the area is subject to strong currents, surge, and surf, requiring careful assessment of conditions before entry. The site is not patrolled, and rock platforms can be slippery. Water temperatures range from 13C to 19C throughout the year, with a 7mm wetsuit recommended for summer and a drysuit often preferred in winter. Parking is available near the shore.
-38.46551, 144.10782
Check the surf forecast before committing to an entry, as the current and rip can make this site genuinely hazardous on bigger swell days. Entering at slack tide or during calmer periods will give you a far more manageable dive and better visibility.
Access is via Step Beach. Parking is available at the Split Point Lighthouse car park on Federal Street. From the car park, take the stairs down the cliff to the beach.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 10m
Visibility
0m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
13-19°C
Current
Strong
Best Time
Year-round
No, this site is rated for intermediate snorkelers and divers due to the presence of strong currents, surge, and surf.
The site is shallow, with depths ranging from 1 to 10 metres and an average depth of 5 metres.
Step Beach is a shore-access site.
Yes, the site is suitable for snorkelling with a rating of 3/5, provided conditions are calm.
The site can be visited year-round, from January through December, provided that weather and sea conditions are calm.
Significant hazards include strong currents, rip currents, surf, surge, and slippery rock platforms. The area is not patrolled.
Diving at Step Beach in Great Ocean Road requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Step Beach in Great Ocean Road. Water temperatures range from 13°C to 19°C.
Step Beach in Great Ocean Road can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.