Just past Apollo Bay, off the world famous Great Ocean Road, Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary protects 12ha of ocean waters. About 150m offshore, this sanctuary protects a reef system known as Little Henty Reef. Two sections of the reef, the inner and outer reef, are usually exposed and separated by a narrow channel known as 'The Gap'. Composed of sandstone they support wonderful intertidal and subtidal reefs which are packed with sea life.
Visitors exploring the intertidal reef may come across many invertebrates including sea snails, tubeworms and abalone. In slightly deeper waters there are beautiful seaweed gardens including towering Bull Kelp forests and beds of delicate green and red species. Between the two small islands, calmer waters support colourful soft corals, sponge gardens and sea urchins. The diverse range of habitats provides resources for a huge range of species.
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Love walking on the rockpools at low tide but beware very slippery rocks!
vOonie spOonie
Google review
It was lovely beach to swim! Crystal clear rock pools. Try check for low tide, or a falling tide. The current can feel strong. Swim in the shallows to get a feel for it. December (summer) 2020, water temp was only 16C, air temp also 16C! I was fine without a wetsuit :) but wear one if u normally do. it is 3-4C colder than Port Philip bay at the moment. Walked along the rocks to scout out a spot to swim out to the islands. There are reef fish in the shallows coast side and out at the reef! wrasse, perch, sea sweep, leather jackets... maybe the chance of eagle ray, octopus or cray. I really wanted a seal to come up to me! But maybe another time!
Darlene M
Google review
You can see the seals on the reef from the beach. We so enjoyed our time there. It's just a short walk from Apollo Bay.
Rich M
Google review
Interesting reef near the end of the beach. I went for a scuba here after speaking to the local surf shop. they had some pics for snorkelling / diving (attached). there was seals at the tip and healthy kelp, some fish. done once, but I would need a good reason to do it again