Situated on the ocean side of Phillip Island, this secretive splash spot is directly adjacent to the world-famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade. With more accidental visitors (lost tourists seeking penguins) than deliberate ones, this quiet beach is a snorkeller’s delight, and offers sites for newbies through to experienced snorkellers.

The western side of the cove is well protected from ocean swell, and is the perfect place for new or timid snorkellers, as well as young families, to enjoy. Enter the beach via the western stairs and head for the calmer waters in the shelter of the cliffs. Here lie sandy flats where toadfish burrow, seagrass meadows where impressive long-fin pike patrol, and diverse seaweed gardens that sway gently in the flow.

Experienced snorkellers may head for the eastern end of the cove, where rock promontories and islands carve the deep water into a wonderland of seaweed-covered rocky tors and cliff faces. Fields of Amphibolis seagrass between the crags shelter blue weed-whiting and leatherjacket species that will carry on with their business if approached slowly. Sheltering amongst the islands you will find eagle rays and young stingrays, as well as stingarees of several species. Dive down to investigate an overhanging ledge and you are likely to come face to face with a resting Port Jackson shark or two!

This coastline features some of the most pristine surge zone habitat in the state, and with that come a plethora of rocky reef fish, which are difficult for snorkellers to find in most other locations. Black and electric blue herring cale are a highlight here, as well as the angelfish-like old wives, Victorian scalyfin, zebrafish, bluethroat wrasse and magpie perch. Even if you weren’t to spot a single fish, the diversity of algal and seagrass life would astound you.

 

A note of caution: this area is strictly for experienced snorkellers who are very strong swimmers. The water here is deep and less protected from the ocean surge. At this unpatrolled beach, danger is but one poor decision away. Never overestimate your abilities, or underestimate the power of the ocean.

Protected as it is by reef and cliff, this cove is still subject to strong swell, heavy chop, and dangerous winds from the south. The eastern arm should only be attempted when lower tides keep the ocean waves behind an outcropping reef. Quite apart from the obvious safety concerns, underwater visibility is shocking when the waves come in, and snorkeling in swell is downright unpleasant. Perfect conditions for Kitty Miller Bay come after several days of still weather or northerly winds. Enter on the receding tide, whenever it is safe to do so. The lower the tide, the more protected the waters, but some areas are better at mid-tide.

A site that never feels quite the same twice, Kitty Miller Bay will thrill experienced snorkellers and encourage even the most reluctant ones to explore. Pop down for a visit before heading to one of Australia’s biggest ecotourism attractions, or pair it with a stroll along one of the island’s fine bush and coastal tracks. If you pick the right conditions, you are in for a treat!

SUMMARY:

• Snorkel spots to suit all abilities
• Adjacent to the Penguin Parade
• Pristine southern rocky reef habitat
• Exquisite algal and plant diversity
• Sharks and rays
• Some areas are dangerous and inadvisable for inexperienced snorkellers. Exercise caution and common sense.

 

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Level of Difficulty

• 2 on the west of the bay; 5 on the south-east arm

Ease of Accessibility

Wildlife

Scenery

Overall Rating

 

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Banner image courtesy of Catherine Cavallo.