Bellambi has a large amount of reef that offers some great snorkelling from the shoreline. 

There is also a shallow reef offshore that breaks even in a small swell. This large reef complex has proven hazardous for shipping and Bellambi Reef claimed many vessels (and lives), particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The NSW maritime archaeology unit of the Environment department lists 15 wrecks at Bellambi Reef, the last of which, the
SS Munmorah, foundered in 1949. The boiler of the Munmorah lies in very shallow water and can be accessed on foot at low tide.

I have only explored a small part of Bellambi Reef and haven’t been to the offshore component. There are lots of ledges and drop-offs that provide habitat for leatherjackets, red morwong, blue groper, several species of wrasse, bream and herring cale, among others.

I have also seen a Port Jackson shark and a blind shark, both of which are harmless, and
a large eagle ray. While filming this snorkelling trip, I saw a school of whiting, mullet, a flathead and some small stingrays in very shallow water at the entry site, which reminded me that sandy habitats can also be interesting. 

To get to Bellambi Point, head to the regional boat-launching ramp and then go along the off-leash dog-walking beach on the eastern side of the break-wall. The water depth is very shallow close to shore and this can make entry and exit tricky if there are any waves. 

It pays to look for an alternative exit if the entry place becomes too treacherous. The boat launching ramp is always a backup but stay close to the breakwater to avoid any boats. 

There are often some giant stingrays hanging around waiting to feed on fish scraps from the fishermen. Give them space and they will just cruise on by.

Watch more of Duncan's videos at Illawarra Underwater on YouTube.