Meet the site
Salmon Holes is one of the most photographed spots in Torndirrup National Park: a short beach of white sand and turquoise water framed by massive granite at the western end of Isthmus Bay, facing straight out to the Southern Ocean. It takes its name from the seasonal run of Australian salmon (Arripis truttaceus) that schools along the south coast in autumn and draws fishers from across the state.
It is also one of the most dangerous beaches in the Albany area. DBCA warns that fishing from the rocks is extremely dangerous and recommends wearing a flotation vest and carrying a personal locator beacon, and emergency services have conducted numerous searches here for people swept off the rocks. The same swell that makes the scenery dramatic means the beach usually has a heavy shore break and strong rips.
On the rare days when the ocean is flat, the clear water and granite make for a striking snorkel: boulders and gutters with kelp, sponges and encrusting algae, schools of salmon and herring in autumn, sweep, old wives, wrasse and blue groper, and the occasional seal. However, it is not an established dive site, there are no facilities, the access is by a long flight of steps, and there is no operator or lifeguard.
It is included here because it is frequently asked about. For Albany shore diving, safer choices include Gull Rock (Ahwina), Frenchman Bay/Whaling Cove, Two Peoples Bay and Little Beach, all of which are inside the sheltered sound or bays.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Salmon Holes (Torndirrup) is recorded as Shore/Rock Platform in Albany & Great Southern. The listed access is shore. Confirm the actual meeting point, route and permission to visit; a map pin does not establish any of these.
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 Salmon Holes (Torndirrup) suitable for my certification?
The record lists Open Water. 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 Salmon Holes (Torndirrup) 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
Australian salmon (autumn), herring, sweep, old wives, wrasse, blue groper, kelp, sponges, occasional seals
Location
Small, spectacular granite-framed beach at the western end of Isthmus Bay in Torndirrup National Park, facing the Southern Ocean; notorious for dangerous surf and rock-fishing fatalities, snorkelled only on rare flat days.
Facilities nearby
Car park and lookout; no toilets or water. Park entry fees apply. Full facilities in Albany.
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
exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.aualbanyadvertiser.com.auRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.
