Bunbury, with its stunning coastline and rich marine biodiversity, is a fantastic destination for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. The waters around this coastal city are home to a wide variety of marine life, from colourful fish and playful dolphins to intricate coral formations and fascinating shipwrecks. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, Bunbury offers plenty of opportunities to explore the underwater world. Here’s a guide to the top spots for snorkelling and diving in and around Bunbury.

1. Koombana Bay

Koombana Bay is one of Bunbury’s most popular spots for snorkelling, thanks to its calm, clear waters and abundant marine life. The bay is home to a resident population of bottlenose dolphins, which can often be seen swimming near the shore. While snorkelling, you might be lucky enough to spot these friendly creatures up close, along with schools of fish, rays, and other marine species.

The shallow waters of Koombana Bay make it an ideal spot for beginners and families. The bay is also home to the Dolphin Discovery Centre, where you can learn more about the local marine environment and even join a guided snorkelling tour. The centre’s experienced guides can help you get the most out of your snorkelling experience, pointing out the best spots and ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable time in the water.

Location: Koombana Dr, Bunbury, WA 6230

Image © Tourism Western Australia

2. BackBeach

For those looking for a more adventurous snorkelling experience, BackBeach offers an exciting opportunity to explore Bunbury’s rugged coastline. Known for its strong surf and rocky outcrops, BackBeach is best suited for more experienced snorkelers who are comfortable navigating ocean currents.

The underwater landscape at BackBeach is diverse, with rocky reefs that provide a habitat for a variety of marine species, including colourful fish, octopuses, and crustaceans. The clear waters offer excellent visibility, allowing snorkelers to fully appreciate the vibrant marine life that thrives in this dynamic environment. Be sure to check the surf conditions before heading out, as the waves can be challenging at times.

Location: Ocean Dr, Bunbury, WA 6230

Image © Tourism Western Australia

3. The Lena Dive Wreck

For diving enthusiasts, the Lena Dive Wreck is a must-visit site in Bunbury. The Lena is a former fishing vessel that was scuttled in 2003 to create an artificial reef just off the coast of Bunbury. Since then, the wreck has become a thriving marine habitat, attracting a wide range of marine life and providing an exciting underwater playground for divers.

The wreck sits at a depth of around 18 metres, making it accessible to both novice and experienced divers. As you explore the Lena, you’ll encounter a variety of marine species, including schools of snapper, wrasse, and trevally, as well as colourful corals and sponges that have colonised the wreck over the years. The Lena is also home to larger marine animals, such as rays and the occasional wobbegong shark, making for a truly unforgettable diving experience.

Several local dive operators offer guided dives to the Lena, providing all the necessary equipment and expert guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable dive.

Location: 3 nautical miles off the coast of Bunbury

4. The Outer Harbour

Another excellent spot for both snorkelling and diving in Bunbury is the Outer Harbour. This area is known for its rich marine biodiversity, with a variety of habitats that support a wide range of marine species. The sheltered waters of the Outer Harbour make it a great spot for snorkelers of all levels, while the deeper areas offer exciting opportunities for divers.

The underwater landscape here includes rocky reefs, seagrass beds, and sandy bottoms, each home to different marine communities. Snorkelers can expect to see schools of fish, including bream, whiting, and herring, as well as colourful invertebrates like sea stars, anemones, and nudibranchs. Divers can explore the deeper areas of the harbour, where they may encounter larger species such as rays, cuttlefish, and even the occasional dolphin.

Location: Bunbury Outer Harbour, WA 6230

5. Binningup Reef

Located just a short drive north of Bunbury, Binningup Reef is a fantastic spot for both snorkelling and diving. This fringing reef system is teeming with marine life, making it a popular destination for underwater exploration. The reef is relatively shallow, with depths ranging from 2 to 12 metres, making it accessible to snorkelers and divers alike.

Binningup Reef is home to a diverse range of marine species, including colourful reef fish, rays, and a variety of invertebrates such as crabs and sea stars. The reef’s clear waters and vibrant coral formations make it a photographer’s paradise, offering plenty of opportunities to capture the beauty of the underwater world. The area is also known for its excellent visibility, particularly during the summer months when conditions are calm and the water is warm.

Location: Binningup Beach, Binningup, WA 6233

6. Point Picquet

For a snorkelling spot with stunning underwater scenery, head to Point Picquet in the nearby Geographe Bay area, about an hour’s drive south of Bunbury. This sheltered bay is known for its calm waters and beautiful coral gardens, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling. The area is home to a wide variety of marine life, including schools of colourful fish, octopuses, and vibrant corals.

The clear waters and shallow depths of Point Picquet make it perfect for snorkelers of all ages and skill levels. The bay is also a great spot for a family day out, with plenty of picnic areas and safe swimming spots along the shore. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a pod of dolphins passing through the bay during your visit.

Location: Meelup Regional Park, Dunsborough, WA 6281

Image © Frances Andrijich

7. Snorkeling and Diving Safety Tips

Before heading out to explore Bunbury’s marine life, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Check the Weather: Always check the weather and water conditions before snorkelling or diving. Avoid going out in rough seas or poor visibility.
• Use the Buddy System: It’s always safer to snorkel or dive with a buddy. If you’re new to the activity, consider joining a guided tour with experienced instructors.
• Know Your Limits: Only explore areas that match your skill level. Beginners should stick to shallow, calm waters, while more experienced divers can venture into deeper, more challenging sites.
• Respect Marine Life: Be mindful of the environment and marine life. Avoid touching or disturbing animals and corals, and take care not to leave any trash behind.

Final Thoughts

Bunbury’s coastline offers a rich and diverse underwater world that’s just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re snorkelling in the calm waters of Koombana Bay, diving the exciting Lena Wreck, or exploring the vibrant reefs at Binningup, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in Bunbury’s marine life. With its stunning natural beauty and accessible dive sites, Bunbury is a must-visit destination for any underwater enthusiast.