Nestled on the southern coast of Western Australia, Esperance is a coastal gem famed for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. While the stunning beaches alone are enough to captivate any traveller, Esperance is also home to some of the most spectacular snorkelling experiences.

Whether you’re floating through calm lagoon pools or diving into deeper waters, Esperance has snorkelling spots for every level of adventurer. To help you make the most of your visit, we've curated a list of the 5 best snorkelling locations in Esperance that should be at the top of your itinerary. Dive in and discover the breathtaking beauty beneath the surface!

For details on all the white sandy beaches in Esperance check out our Esperance Beaches guide below.

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1. Twilight Beach

Just a short drive from the town of Esperance, along the picturesque Great Ocean Drive, Twilight Beach is one of the region’s most popular beaches – and it’s easy to see why! With its sheltered cove framed by rocky headlands, this beach is perfect for snorkelling. The gentle waves make it an idea spot for families and beginners to explore the underwater world, where you’ll encounter schools of fish and vibrant marine life. On low tide, you can walk out to the rocks, and on high tide - the thrill seekers can jump off into the ocean below.

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2. Munglinup Beach

Munglinup Beach is a hidden gem in Esperance, tucked away 140km west of town. Protected by the reef, the beach forms a natural lagoon with calm, sheltered waters, perfect for snorkelling (and swimming!). Here, you’re likely to swim with marine life such as salmon, herring, trout, gummy sharks, and even red starfish. On the eastern side, there is a shallow headland and walking track that leads to a stunning second beach. The headland itself has several tidal rock pools, that offer a perfect, calm place to cool off during low tide.

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3. Blue Haven Beach

Another beautiful blue shimmering beach on the edge of town, Blue Haven Beach is perfect for both those wanting to relax, or adventure, or a bit of both. As its name suggests, this beach can be a haven from the persistent south-easterly summer winds. This natural barrier also makes the waters calm and perfect for snorkelling, with crystal-clear visibility that reveals vibrant coral reefs and a wealth of marine life – especially around the headland. For those who love to explore on land, the beach is surrounded by rocky outcrops and tidal rockpools, so be sure to pack a pair of sturdy shoes if you plan to wander beyond the sand.

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4. Le Grand Beach

Nestled within the stunning Cape Le Grand National Park, Le Grand Beach is a slice of paradise waiting to be explored. This unmatched spot has something for everyone – whether it’s relaxing on the beach, surfing, fishing, 4Wding, beach side camping, and snorkelling. The calm, clear waters are perfect for a peaceful underwater exploration, with an array of marine life to discover.

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5. Woody Island

For a snorkelling experience like no other, head to Woody Island, located within the stunning Recherche Archipelago. This is a must-visit for snorkellers looking for an adventure. The underwater terrain around the granite islands offer spectacular drop-offs, underwater caves and swim-throughs perfect for exploring. The Woody Island Snorkel Trail is a self-guided adventure that begins either from the beach or swimming platform in Shearwater Bay. The waters here are renowned for their exceptional visibility, and snorkellers are often rewarded with sightings of the elusive leafy sea dragon.