

Best for beginner divers, 1-5m, shore entry, moderate current.
Rock Point Fossil Shelf is a unique geological site featuring a 350-million-year-old Devonian coral reef embedded within a flat limestone shelf. Snorkellers can observe prehistoric fossils, including horn corals and crinoids, directly on the lake floor. The site is suitable for beginners, with depths ranging from 1 to 5 metres and an average depth of 3 metres. Access is via a shore entry. Conditions include moderate currents, and snorkellers should be aware of potential rip currents and cold water temperatures. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, a cafe, and guided tours.
42.84780, -79.55150
Use a small brush to clear debris from a fossil find instead of using a hammer, as chipping at the rock is prohibited.
The park is well-signposted from major provincial highways on the north shore of Lake Erie in southern Ontario.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 5m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
2-23°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
There is no record of living marine life at this site; however, snorkellers can view prehistoric fossils of horn corals and crinoids embedded in the limestone shelf.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, with shallow depths averaging 3 metres.
The depth ranges from 1 to 5 metres, with an average depth of 3 metres.
Access to the site is via a shore entry.
Water temperatures vary significantly throughout the year, ranging from 2°C in winter to 23°C in August. Comfortable swimming conditions are generally limited to July through September.
Snorkellers should be cautious of cold water, strong currents, and rip currents.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Rock Point Fossil Shelf in Port Maitland. Water temperatures range from 2°C to 23°C.
The best months to visit Rock Point Fossil Shelf in Port Maitland are May, June, July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.