Durras North is totally surrounded by the Batemans Marine Park which is home to some amazing sea life. Apart from our immediate area, the South Coast has some excellent snorkeling and diving locations.
Favourite snorkelling lcoations in the Durras North area include:
Calm Corner – the northern end of Durras Beach
A great spot in summer as it is generally sheltered from the north-easterly winds by Point Upright. Best entry for snorkeling is straight off the beach. Apart from a few rock shelves, large underwater boulders provide plenty of opportunities to view many fish, squid, crustaceans, seaweeds and sponges.
Depot Beach
Just north of Durras North is Depot Beach which is perfect for both snorkeling or even “walk in” Scuba diving. Actual locations may vary due to the swell and wind direction. At the southern end of Depot Beach is a large rock platform which provides a deep drop off to the sandy bottom. Some great wall snorkeling here. At the northern end of Depot Beach is a small rocky reef. In between this and the next reef is a small inlet named Boat Harbour. A popular boat or sea kayaking launch area. In calm conditions, this shallow inlet is excellent for snorkeling. Plenty of small fish, crustaceans (including lobsters) and from time to time, very large sting-rays. There are a few parking spots right on the beach so this is the ideal place to go scuba diving “rock hopping.” If parking here though, ensure you have a NPWS parking permit.
Durras Lake Entrance Reef
The rocky reef directly in front of the Durras Lake entrance area is one location which needs a high degree of caution. Strong currents from the tides – especially if Durras Lake is open to the ocean – and irregular surf mean this location is for only the very experienced. And even then, only when the conditions are absolutely perfect.
Montague Island
Without a doubt, the best snorkeling and diving experience in the region is Montague Island, 5km east of Narooma. The primary attraction here is snorkeling and swimming with the seals. The population of the New Zealand and Australian Fur seals range from 400 to 2000 depending upon the season. Montague Island is regarded as one of the ten best spots in the world for diving. Montague Island Tours can be booked with local operators or the Eurobodalla Visitors Centres. They can also refer you to one of several Dive Shops in the area. There are plenty of Whale and Dolphin Watching operators as well.
Other Snorkeling and Dive Locations
Guerilla Bay, Mc Kenzies Beach, Tomakin Cove, Candlagan Creek, Broulee Island and Potato Point are some of the locations highlighted in a brochure put together by the Eurobodalla Visitors Burea. You can download a copy of the Snorkelling Eurobodalla here.
Though the scenery surrounding Durras North is highly regarded, the underwater world is just as diverse and awe inspiring.
If you need a snorkel and mask, they are available for purchase from our shop at Durras North.
