Snorkelling Chain Bay to Acheron Ledge - Maloneys Beach

Chain Bay to Acheron Ledge is a snorkelling spot at Maloneys Beach, near Batemans Bay on the New South Wales south coast, with a calm, shallow beach entry leading out to rocky ledges.

Getting there: From Batemans Bay, head north 8 km on the Princes Highway. Turn right into Cullendulla Drive, then Northcove Road, to Maloneys Beach and on to Chain Bay. A sandy track leads down to the beach car park, and there is a basic boat ramp.

Route: Snorkel from the calm, shallow beach to the left, out toward the rocks. Rocky formations close to shore are full of nooks and crannies where marine life hides.

Marine life: Snorkellers can spot fish in small groups and larger schools, along with rays, starfish, and shellfish. Abalone and crayfish are also present in the rocks, though they can be hard to spot.

Fishing rules: A fishing licence is required to take abalone or crayfish, and bag limits and size restrictions apply.

Chain Bay to Acheron Ledge suits snorkellers of most experience levels, thanks to its sheltered, shallow entry and easy access from Maloneys Beach.