Is it safe to swim at Goat Island?

The area is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, diving, camping, hiking, strolling or just lounging on the beach. Divers are asked to be extremely careful not to damage the sea whips, coral and sponges as some of them are hundreds of years old. This beach has received a special status of green.

What tide is best for Goat Island?

The best time to visit is when there is less than one metre swell and the wind is offshore. If you are an inexperienced snorkeller consider going out with someone experienced or on a guided snorkel tour. Shag Rock, about 150m directly off the beach, is best during high tide when thousands of fish move in to feed.

How far to swim to Goat Island?

Note: You need to be able to swim 2KM comfortably. Swim Or Paddle — Let’s go adventuring on this social Eco-Swim!! Fins, Snorkel gear most welcome! Bring along your waterproof camera for lots of cool photo moments!

What are the best conditions for snorkeling?

Optimal conditions for snorkeling are calm, smooth seas. Keep in mind that as the hours go by, weather patterns may change. Even with sunny predictions, it’s important to check for yourself whether waters are conducive for snorkeling.

When is the best time to snorkel at Goat Island?

The best time to snorkel this estuary is around an hour before high tide when the water is still flowing in. Start from the Whangateau Domain or the holiday park and swim towards Horseshoe Island or the large mangrove trees just to the south. Expect to see yellow-eyed mullet in schools of hundreds.

Where to snorkel in Leigh and Goat Island?

You can hire dive and snorkel gear locally or bring your own. There is a five-minute loading zone near the beach entrance where equipment can be dropped off before parking in the top carpark. Divers and snorkellers are usually best to enter the water off the beach, but where you go depends on the direction of the wind and swells, if any.

What to expect at Goat Island New Zealand?

Be prepared and understand what you can expect from New Zealand’s very changeable weather– expect the unexpected! Weather systems such as cold fronts or tropical cyclones can quickly blow in, meaning conditions in the water often switch throughout the day. We offer the best up to date weather reports for the Goat Island Marine Reserve.

What are the weather conditions at Goat Island?

We will give you info on the conditions for snorkeling and diving such as swell, tides, visibility etc. This gives you the best opportunity to dive in for an awesome day at one of Auckland’s best beaches. We also have a camera set up at the reserve which provides a photo on the hour, every hour, from 6am- 6pm.