Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve
Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve lies off Clovelly on Sydney's eastern coast, running from the southern end of Bronte Beach to the Coogee rock baths and covering roughly 40 hectares. Its standout feature is marine life: snorkellers and divers swim with eastern blue groper, and a 500 m underwater nature trail runs through Gordons Bay.
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About Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve
Marine Life and Snorkelling at Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve
Blue groper are a local feature of Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve, and snorkellers and divers swim alongside them in its waters. Gordons Bay holds a 500 m underwater nature trail that takes divers past reefs, sandflats and kelp forests. Because the trail moves through three distinct habitats, a single dive at Gordons Bay shows the reserve's varied seabed. Snorkelling and scuba diving are both listed activities across the reserve, so visitors can choose between surface viewing and deeper dives with their own gear or a guided group.
Swimming Pools at Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve
Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve has two named swimming pools, Bronte Baths and Clovelly Ocean Pool. Clovelly Ocean Pool is described as a lap pool and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so early-morning and late-night laps are possible. The reserve also includes a separate swimming area alongside these pools, giving swimmers a choice between a dedicated pool and open water. Only Clovelly Ocean Pool has listed opening hours, so visitors planning laps at Bronte Baths should check on arrival.
Fishing Rules at Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve
Line fishing is allowed at Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve, and anglers can fish from the reserve's shoreline and waters under standard NSW rules. Spearfishing is permitted across the reserve except in Clovelly Bay, Gordons Bay and surrounding waters. Within the Clovelly Bay and Gordons Bay closure, spearfishing and the collecting of blue groper are both prohibited. Taking eastern blue groper by any method is banned across all NSW waters, so anglers and divers should confirm the closure boundaries before entering the water.
Facilities at Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve
Visitor tips for Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve
- ✓Book a guided snorkel tour from Clovelly if you don't have your own gear, as several operators run group and private trips.
- ✓If you're unsure about swimming in open water, Clovelly Beach is the nearest lifeguard-patrolled option.
Getting to Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve
The reserve is at 6-18 Donnellan Cct, Clovelly NSW 2031. Free parking is available at the Clovelly Free Car Park, and the reserve has its own parking lot.
Open in Google Maps →Nearby Clovelly
- 📍Clovelly Beach (beach, about 100 m)
- 📍Seasalt Cafe (cafe, about 200 m)
Frequently asked questions about Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve
What sports or recreation can I do at Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve, like snorkelling, diving, or kayaking?
The listed activities are snorkelling, scuba diving, swimming, boating and fishing, and lap swimming is available at Clovelly Ocean Pool.
Is it legal to fish at Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve, and what rules apply because it's a marine reserve?
Line fishing is permitted, and spearfishing is allowed except in Clovelly Bay, Gordons Bay and surrounding waters. Eastern blue groper cannot be taken by any method anywhere in NSW waters.
Where can I park when visiting Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve in Clovelly, and is parking free or paid?
Free parking is available at the Clovelly Free Car Park, and the reserve has a parking lot of its own.
What cafes, toilets, and shops are close to Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve in Clovelly?
The reserve has a cafe, a restroom and a shower, and Seasalt Cafe is about 200 m away.
Is it safe to swim or snorkel at Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve, and are there lifeguards on duty?
Clovelly Beach is patrolled year-round by Randwick lifeguards and the local Surf Life Saving Club, and the breakwater at Clovelly Bay keeps the water very calm.