Meet the site
Bermagui's Blue Pool is a large ocean rock pool at the base of the cliffs north of town, reached by a long flight of stairs from a cliff-top car park. It is mainly a swimming spot, but it is known among underwater photographers for nudibranchs. Peter Fuller's dive log describes a 50-minute snorkel in a tidal pool reputed to be good for nudibranchs, with a maximum depth of 2 m, a Hincksia algal bloom in the shallow end, around eight nudibranch species feeding on it and a gloomy octopus that tried hard not to be photographed.
The pool has a mix of rock, weed and sand, with shallow and deeper sections. Waves wash in at high tide and bring in plankton and small animals, and the pool's sheltered water lets algae grow that nudibranchs and sea hares graze. Small fish such as blennies, gobies, juvenile wrasse and leatherjackets live along the edges.
This is not a scuba site; it is a snorkel and macro-photography stop. It suits anyone who can swim, and it is excellent for photographers willing to search slowly. The stairs are long, so pack light. Fuller also mentions Tathra Wharf as a nearby alternative for a proper dive. The Blue Pool is part of Bermagui's coastal walk, and the view from the cliff top is worth the visit on its own. Check swell forecasts, since big seas at high tide can wash over the pool edge. There are no lifeguards. Early morning visits avoid the swimmers. Weekdays are quieter still.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Blue Pool (Bermagui) is recorded as Shore/Rock Platform in Bermagui & Tathra. The listed access is shore. Confirm the actual meeting point, route and permission to visit; a map pin does not establish any of these.
Topics flagged by the stored research
These are questions prompted by the existing notes, not a verified or complete hazard assessment.
- Water movement
- Ask how swell and local exposure affect the proposed entry, exit and route.
Historical access notes exist for this record, but have not been independently verified for current use. Request current directions from the operator or site manager rather than following an old entry description.
Questions, answered
Is Blue Pool (Bermagui) suitable for my certification?
The record lists Snorkel/Any. That does not establish suitability for every route or day. Share your training, recent experience and equipment needs with the operator and ask about the specific proposed dive.
Can I book Blue Pool (Bermagui) through YouDive?
YouDive is an independent research directory. Contact an operator directly to confirm whether it currently runs the trip, the inclusions and the booking terms.
What you might see
Nudibranchs (about eight species recorded in one visit), gloomy octopus, sea hares, blennies, gobies, juvenile wrasse, leatherjackets, algae
Location
Large ocean rock pool cut into the cliff base at the northern end of Bermagui; a 2 m deep tidal pool known for nudibranchs and octopus.
Facilities nearby
Cliff-top car park; change rooms/toilets at the top; Bermagui town nearby.
Before you make plans
Conditions, access and operator schedules can change. This is a location guide, not a dive plan. Ask a local operator about current conditions and suitability for your training and experience.
Sources & further reading
peterfuller.com.auRecord updated 27 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.