Introducing our Cabbage Tree Bay locals

Embark on a breathtaking journey by following the scenic walkway from the southern end of Manly Beach, and you’ll find yourself entering the remarkable Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve.

This sanctuary is home to over 150 captivating fish species, including some iconic residents such as blue groupers, giant cuttlefish, wobbegongs, and even a resident green turtle.

If you’re eager to learn more about these extraordinary creatures, keep an eye out for the ‘Friends of Cabbage Tree Bay’ volunteers, easily recognizable by their distinctive blue shirts. You can usually find them at Shelly Beach most weekends, ready to share their knowledge and enthusiasm.

Dive into a world of wonder and get ready to be amazed! With snorkel and mask in hand, take the plunge into the crystal-clear waters of Cabbage Tree Bay, and prepare to witness an aquatic spectacle beyond your wildest imagination.

While encountering these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat can be a thrilling experience, it’s important to remember to observe them from a respectful distance. Maintaining a safe distance ensures the well-being of both the marine life and us.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the fascinating locals you might encounter during your underwater adventure:

If you see one of these amazing creatures in the wild, please observe them from a distance.

Dusky Whaler Shark (Feb – June)

Cabbage Tree Aquatic Reserve often offers sightings of juvenile Dusky Whaler Sharks. These young sharks spend their early stages in the bay before embarking on vast migrations covering thousands of kilometres. Driven by the pursuit of food sources and mating opportunities, they journey between colder and warmer waters, showcasing the wonders of nature’s grand cycles.

Best time to spot: February to June.

Eastern Blue Groper

Meet the Eastern Blue Groper, fondly referred to as ‘Gary the Groper’ by the locals. You can encounter this captivating creature all year round within the reserve. Adult females boast reddish to brown hues, while their male counterparts dazzle with a vibrant blue coloration, earning them their name.

Best time to spot: all year round.

Giant Cuttlefish (Feb – Aug)

Behold the majestic Giant Cuttlefish, the largest species of its kind in the world, residing right here in Cabbage Tree Bay. These incredible creatures possess the unique ability to rapidly alter the colour and texture of their skin, a remarkable adaptation they employ during hunting or when searching for a mate.

Best time to spot: February to August.

Green Turtle

Within the tranquil waters of Cabbage Tree Bay, you may encounter a few Green Sea Turtles enjoying their habitat. Juvenile green sea turtles frequent the bay for approximately ten years, utilizing it as a foraging ground. Abundant with seagrass, algae, and various invertebrates, this beautiful and shallow water environment provides them with a bountiful food source.

Best time to spot: all year round.

Port Jackson Shark (June – Nov)

The Port Jackson Shark, an iconic species to this area, is drawn to the sheltered habitat of Cabbage Tree Bay. These peaceful sharks migrate from Bass Strait to the bay during the cooler months, seeking a favourable environment for breeding. It’s worth noting that Port Jackson Sharks are known for their gentle nature and pose no threat to humans.

Best time to spot: June to November.

Spotted Wobbegong

Keep a keen eye out for the captivating Spotted Wobbegong, a species of carpet sharks. Named for their striking yellowish-brown patterns, these enigmatic creatures can be found nestled amidst the seaweed, rocky crevices, or tucked away under ledges. Their unique appearance adds to the allure of exploring the bay’s hidden corners.

Best time to spot: November – May.

Weedy Sea dragon

The enchanting Weedy Sea Dragon awaits your discovery on the ocean floor. While easily discernible in the kelp beds they call home, these creatures possess a remarkable ability to camouflage themselves when approached too closely. Although they prefer shallow estuaries and deep offshore reefs, they can occasionally be found in other areas, providing fortunate divers with an unforgettable encounter.

Best time to spot: all year round.

Prepare to be captivated by the hidden wonders of Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve. Immerse yourself in its breathtaking beauty, respect the marine life, and cherish the unforgettable memories you’ll create during your underwater exploration.