Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary

BEAUMARIS, Victoria

With its rockpools close to shore, Ricketts Point is the perfect place to introduce kids to the wonder of Victoria’s underwater marine life. Sandstone platforms are home to an array of marine creatures and are excellent for rockpool exploration. During summer the beach is patrolled by the life saving club, making it a great option for a summer family outing.

Located just near Beaumaris in Melbourne’s south east, this sanctuary is 115ha. Bordered by jutting cliffs of sandstone which have been worn down into a series of platforms, sea caves and offshore reefs, this site is easily accessible for all. There are a range of habitats to explore including rocky sandstone intertidal and subtidal habitats, sandy beaches and subtidal soft substrates.

Within the diverse range of habitats at this site, there are many plants and animals which can be found. Near shore, the rocks are covered with green and red algae which shelters a range of invertebrates including brittle stars, bristle worms and crustaceans. The surrounding sandy bottoms are covered by patches of seagrass which attract a range of fish species. In deeper waters, rock bommies are carpeted in either green Caulerpa or brown Sargassum, which hides many small animals. These rocks also attract fish species including Southern Hulafish, scalyfin and morwong. If you look carefully, you may be able to uncover one of the masters of disguise, a cuttlefish. These animals are experts at changing their colour and skin texture to conceal themselves.

Park stats

Size: 115 Ha (1.15 km2)
Authority: Parks Victoria
Distance from Melbourne: 16.9 km

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Park amenities, facilities, and things to do
  • Bird watching

    Bird watching
  • Boating / Sailing

    Boating / Sailing
  • Rockpool

    Rockpool
  • Scuba diving

    Scuba diving
  • Swimming

    Swimming

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Content on this park was last updated/edited: 6/07/2017 10:27:21 AM
The content on this page is sourced from; research, user submissions, and from the following sources:
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