Manly: Snorkel Tour & Nature Walk at Cabbage Tree Bay

Summary

Snorkeling clear waters in Manly then wandering wild headlands

You’ll slip into Shelly Beach’s clear water with a small group and a local guide who knows every fish by name. Snorkel among blue gropers and seagrass meadows at Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, then wander up the headland for sweeping views of Sydney’s Northern Beaches—binoculars in hand, salt still on your skin.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the wetsuit felt—sort of awkward, like pulling on a cold second skin, but honestly I was grateful for it once we stepped onto Shelly Beach. The sand had that early-morning chill and our guide, Dave (he grew up here—said he still finds new fish every week), handed out masks and flippers while pointing at the water. “We’ll start slow,” he said, which made me feel better because I hadn’t snorkeled in years. There was this salty breeze coming off the bay and you could hear gulls arguing over something behind us.

Getting into the water was a mix of nerves and excitement—my heart thumping as I tried to remember how to breathe calmly through the snorkel. The sea grass moved in these gentle waves under us, and suddenly there were blue gropers darting by, almost close enough to touch. At one point Dave tapped my arm and pointed out a camouflaged cuttlefish—I would’ve missed it completely. He told us about how Cabbage Tree Bay is a “no take” reserve, so everything just… thrives here. I didn’t expect to feel so peaceful floating above all that life. Oh, and if you’re worried about swimming (like I was), they have those foam noodles you can grab onto.

After an hour or so in the water (time goes weird when you’re watching fish), we peeled off wetsuits and walked up onto the headland. The view hit me—Sydney’s Northern Beaches stretched out forever, kind of hazy in the sun. Dave handed around binoculars for spotting birds; someone thought they saw a sea eagle but maybe it was just wishful thinking. My hair still smelled like saltwater when we headed back down. It’s funny—I keep thinking about that cuttlefish blending into the rocks, like some secret only locals know about.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manly snorkel and nature walk

• Meet local expert guide
• Snorkel at Cabbage Tree Bay
• Learn about marine life
• Use foam floating noodles if needed
• Walk on headlands for views

Top questions

How long is the Manly snorkel tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours including snorkeling and a nature walk.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Manly tour?

Yes, all snorkeling gear including wetsuits, rash vests, flippers, and floating noodles are included.

Do I need to be an experienced snorkeler?

No experience is necessary; beginners get an introduction lesson before entering the water.

Where does the tour start?

The tour begins at Shelly Beach in Manly near Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

What marine life might I see during snorkeling?

You may spot blue gropers, cuttlefish, various reef fish, and more within Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is offered; public transportation options are available nearby.

Are children allowed on this snorkel tour?

Yes, but children must be accompanied by an adult and able to swim 150 meters unassisted.

Can non-swimmers join this Manly snorkeling tour?

No; all participants must be able to swim 150 meters unassisted and tread water comfortably.

What’s included

Your morning or afternoon includes all snorkeling equipment—wetsuits in different styles depending on how brave you feel—plus flippers, rash vests, foam noodles for extra floaty confidence, binoculars for bird spotting on the walk, and plenty of stories from your local guide before heading back salty-haired but happy.