Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary

Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary is an idyllic wildlife reserve located at Aireys Inlet.

It spans over 17 hectares of ocean waters and emerges about 300 meters offshore. This wildlife sanctuary is made up of hard basalt and rubbly limestone cliffs that are full of caves and ledges, while the shore is covered with boulders.

Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary provides multiple opportunities to explore and learn about marine life. The Sanctuary features intertidal and subtidal basalt and sandstone reefs that are home to many species of marine animals. Visitors can observe fascinating creatures such as octopuses, chitons, and decorator crabs from the rock pools. Offshore in Eagle Rock and Table Rock, visitors can observe Bull Kelp bordered the area with colorful Sea Tulips and encrusting sponges. The diverse habitat provided by these species supports a vast array of marine life, including wrasses, mullets, Cat Sharks, Port Jackson Sharks, skates, and rays. Many species of birds also use the area as feeding and roosting space, and at certain times of the year, visitors can spot whales passing through the area.

The best time to visit Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary is between Spring to Summer when the weather is warm, and the sea is calm. During this period, visitors can access the Sanctuary's shore, where they can spot marine animals such as Octopus and sea tulips. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of various bird species and watch the whales passing through the Sanctuary's waters.

Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary is located at Aireys Inlet, about 100 km away from Melbourne. The Sanctuary can be accessed via Great Ocean Road, which provides a stunning view of Australia