Cabbage Tree Bay · Manly

Cabbage Tree Bay · Manly

Sydney's no-take reserve, a ferry ride from the city.

Open WaterAustralia
Depth
2–12 m
Visibility
5–15 m
Water
17–24 °C
Current
Minimal (sheltered)
Best time
Year-round
Signature life
Giant cuttlefish

The dive

Why dive Cabbage Tree Bay · Manly

A no-take aquatic reserve minutes from Sydney's CBD: sheltered, shallow and busy with life, with rays, wobbegongs and giant cuttlefish in a few metres of water.

Marine life

Giant cuttlefishEagle raysFiddler raysWobbegong sharksReef fish

Dive profile

ShoreReefMacro

When to go

Best time: Year-round

A sheltered reserve diveable most days of the year; big swells can stir it up, so check conditions on the day.

Readiness

Who it suits

Open Water-level site — suits Open Water divers and up. Typical requirements:

Open Water

Not sure you're ready? Read our readiness guide or check yourself in the planner.

Logistics

Getting there & staying

Getting thereFerry from Sydney CBD + short walk. Ferry from Circular Quay to Manly, then a short walk along Marine Parade to Shelly Beach.
Where to stayCity base (shore dive). Anywhere in Sydney; Manly makes it a relaxed day out.
Operator to look forReviewed Manly dive centres running guided shore dives and gear hire.

Sources

Further reading

Links checked 29 September 2026. They cover the site's location, protection status and background. Costs, difficulty and season windows are ScubaRogue's editorial estimates, so confirm them with your operator before you book. How we research

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