Swell
Wind
How to Dive Freshwater
Overview
Freshwater is a lesser-known but rewarding dive on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. It offers a mix of reef, sand, and lush seagrass beds that support a surprising amount of marine life. On calm days, it’s a relaxing and scenic site — ideal for slow exploration, photography, or a peaceful solo dive.
Entry & Access
Entry: Access the site from the north side of Freshwater Beach, just below the rock pool. A small gully on the western side leads out to the ocean and serves as the main entry and exit point. Entry is easy at high tide with low swell, but at low tide it can be shallow, requiring some care stepping across the rocks. In larger swell, especially from the south-east, the surge through the gully can make entry and exit difficult — always check conditions before committing.
Parking: There’s metered parking available in the car park above the rock pool on the northern side. It’s a short walk down to the entry point but there are a few stairs making it a slightly challenging climb in full gear. The car park can fill quickly on weekends and summer days, so aim for early mornings for the smoothest setup.
Hazards
Large south-easterly swells can make this site unsafe — always check the forecast. Shallow entry at low tide — be cautious of footing and submerged rocks.
Marine Life
Freshwater features healthy seagrass beds teeming with life. Expect large schools of fish, Port Jackson sharks, wobbegongs, stingrays, and the occasional octopus. The reef edges often hide smaller critters, making it a great spot for macro observation.
Pro Tip
Time your dive for mid to high tide with low swell for the easiest entry. Spend time exploring the seagrass beds just offshore — they’re vibrant and full of surprises. Keep your eyes peeled for juvenile species sheltering close to the sand.
