Meet the site
Mystery Bay is a string of small beaches and rocky reefs about 12 km south of Narooma, with a popular campground behind them. It is listed on the Batemans Marine Park snorkelling and diving page, and the Nature Coast Marine Group describes multiple reefs with some shelter in most weathers and fantastic variation in kelp species. A ScubaBoard report mentions small boats launching from Mystery Bay by inflatable to reach Montague Island in calm weather.
The rocky outcrops divide the shore into coves facing different directions, which is why one of them is usually sheltered. The reefs are shallow rock with a mix of kelps – common kelp, crayweed and other brown and red algae – that support a range of fish: blue groper, luderick, eastern rock blackfish, sweep, mado, leatherjackets, wrasse and magpie morwong. Octopus, sea stars, urchins and nudibranchs are common, and stingrays rest on the sand. Weedy sea dragons live in kelp along this coast.
The site suits snorkellers, families and new divers, and is especially convenient for anyone camping at Mystery Bay. It is also a good choice when the Narooma bar is closed. It is not a deep site, and there is no detailed published layout, so depths here are indicative. Check the marine park zoning map before fishing or collecting. Combined with the nearby village of Central Tilba, it makes a pleasant base for a few days of South Coast diving. On calm days the outer reefs off the points are worth exploring for larger fish, though they are more exposed.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Mystery Bay is recorded as Shore/Rock Platform in Narooma & Montague Island. 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 Mystery Bay 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 Mystery Bay 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
Blue groper, luderick, eastern rock blackfish, sweep, mado, leatherjackets, wrasse, magpie morwong, octopus, sea stars, urchins, nudibranchs, stingrays, kelp (several species), weedy sea dragons
Location
Series of small bays and rocky reefs south of Narooma with shelter in most weathers and a notable variety of kelp; snorkelling and shore diving next to a campground.
Facilities nearby
Mystery Bay campground with toilets; nearest shops at Central Tilba or Narooma.
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
ncmg.org.audpird.nsw.gov.auscubaboard.comRecord updated 27 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.