Byron Bay: Nguthungulli Julian Rocks Snorkeling Tour
Byron Bay
Explore the unique underwater life in Nguthungulli Julian Rocks Marine Reserve! Meet sea turtles, wobbegong sharks, graceful rays, and an abundance of colorful fish. Become a citizen scientist!
Snorkel and swim at Nguthungulli Julian Rock Marine Reserve in Byron Bay, ideal for nature lovers and citizen scientists interested in marine conservation.
Highlights
- Swim and snorkel around Nguthungulli Julian Rock Marine Reserve in Byron Bay
- Spot sea turtles, manta rays, leopard sharks, and other marine life
- Join the Turtle School citizen science program
- Learn about local sea turtles and contribute to their conservation
Description
Explore the waters around Nguthungulli Julian Rocks, home to over 1,000 marine species including sharks, rays, loggerhead, green, and hawksbill sea turtles, plus more than 500 tropical and temperate fish species. This aquatic reserve offers diverse marine life throughout the year.
In summer, leopard sharks and manta rays can be seen peacefully swimming, while in winter, grey nurse sharks and humpback whales gather in these waters. Sea turtles and various fish species inhabit the reserve year-round.
Join the Turtle School workshop to become a citizen scientist. Learn about the ecology and biology of local sea turtles, identification techniques, and conservation methods. Practice responsible wildlife interaction and photograph turtles to aid scientific research. This program operates under an NSW government permit.
Includes
- Full equipment: fins, mask, snorkel, wetsuit
- Boat ride to Nguthungulli Julian Rocks
- Snorkel guide for the duration of the activity
- Transport between dive store and launch site
- Water onboard
- Lockers and wet/dry storage area
Excludes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food
- Parking (public parking fees apply in Byron Bay)
Important Information
- If traveling from Queensland, note Byron Bay is one hour ahead during Australian Eastern Daylight Saving Time.
- Participants must be able to swim at least 200 meters unassisted in open ocean; conditions may include waves, surge, and current.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Not recommended for individuals with serious medical conditions or pregnant women.
- Boat launches from The Pass; participants must be able to step into the boat from waist-deep water.
- All participants complete a health questionnaire before snorkeling.
- Subject to favorable weather; cancellations offer date rescheduling, voucher, or refund.
- Late arrivals of 30 minutes or more will forfeit tickets without refund.
Easy Cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund.
For best experience, bring swimwear, a towel, and a waterproof camera. Morning departures typically offer calmer seas and better visibility.
