Meet the site
Burns Beach marks the northern boundary of Marmion Marine Park, and the reef just off the beach is a quieter snorkelling alternative to the busy southern pools. Snorkelling guides describe a chunk of rocky reef offshore in relatively protected water, with reef fish and, further out, larger deep-water species; one guide mentions dhufish.
The reef is weathered limestone with ledges and holes covered in algae. Expect buffalo bream, wrasse, sweep, herring cale, old wives, stripeys and leatherjackets, with western rock lobster and octopus in crevices and rays on the sand. Australian sea lions haul out on Burns Rocks, 1.5 km offshore, and occasionally pass closer to shore.
The beach is small and gets busy on summer days. The reef suits snorkellers and beginner divers on calm days; experienced snorkellers may venture further out, but should tow a float or flag, as boats use the area.
Published detail is limited to snorkelling guides, so depths and position are approximate. For more substantial diving in the area, Burns Rocks and the offshore reefs of the northern marine park are reached by boat from the Ocean Reef ramp.
Water temperatures follow the Perth pattern of about 17 °C in winter and 22–23 °C in late summer, so a 5–7 mm wetsuit is comfortable for most of the year. The coastal walk path along the dunes gives a good view of the reef and swell before you commit to entering. Reef shoes help on the rocky entry, and a float is sensible for anyone venturing outside the inshore reef.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Burns Beach Reef is recorded as Shore/Rock Platform in Perth. 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.
- Other water users
- Ask about vessel activity, exclusion areas and the agreed surface arrangements.
- 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 Burns Beach Reef 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 Burns Beach Reef 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
Buffalo bream, wrasse, sweep, herring cale, old wives, stripeys, leatherjackets, western rock lobster, octopus, rays, dhufish (further offshore), occasional sea lions
Location
Sheltered rocky reef off Burns Beach, at the northern end of Marmion Marine Park.
Facilities nearby
Beachside car park; toilets and cafe at Burns Beach.
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
perthisok.comweareexplorers.coRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.
