Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary (Parks Victoria) — Attraction in Melbourne

I visited Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary in January 2024 with a few friends. It was a slightly overcast summer day, which made it perfect for exploring the rock pools rather than swimming. We drove down and were lucky to find some free street parking nearby, though spaces were limited and time restricted. There are designated parking bays along the foreshore, but being a weekend in summer, most were already taken. We walked down towards the beach through a small reserve area that featured toilets and BBQ facilities. While there wasn’t much shelter, the open grassy space was a nice spot for a picnic or a rest.

Down on the beach, we quickly found the rock pools already buzzing with other visitors. The pools were beautiful and teeming with marine life, from tiny fish and sea snails to colourful coral and shells. We waded through the shallow water as we explored, and despite the other beachgoers, the atmosphere remained peaceful and calming. The adjacent beach was also lovely, with people swimming and relaxing even under the cloudy sky. The water was calm and safe, although there were no lifeguards on duty that morning, so it’s a good idea to stay alert and look out for others when swimming.

After checking out more shells and coral, we wandered along the sand, taking in the views out to sea and back towards the city skyline. On our way back up, we stopped at a cliffside lookout with a stunning ocean view. Which was perfect for snapping a few photos, before we headed off in search of coffee and breakfast. Although we’d heard there were cafés nearby, we struggled to find anything open or appealing and perhaps we arrived a little too early in the day. In summer, ice cream vans are said to frequent the area, which is a fun touch if you’re visiting later.

Overall, Ricketts Point is a beautiful spot for a relaxed day out. The rock pools offer a fascinating glimpse into local marine life and could easily entertain curious kids and adults for hours. Just be cautious that the rocks can be slippery, and it’s important to tread lightly to avoid damaging any of the delicate ecosystems. I’m not sure how actively the area is maintained by marine biologists, but I do hope visitors continue to respect and preserve it. Take photos, leave only footprints, and if you can, plan ahead for parking! I’d love to return on a sunnier day for a swim and hopefully a...

Snorkelling gem with so many beautiful ocean animals♥️

(Updates: My kids saw rays in March 2025! So good!)

I go to this beautiful spot when I want to see beautiful sea creatures!

Get things ready for snorkelling as the water is shallow and there are so many schools of fish, crabs, some shells and possibly eels.

My kids and I go to this spot to see and touch little ocean creatures and last time we visited my child got scared by two eels (according to her two really long fish).

My kids played all day in the shallow water at knee level of an adult by just observing and trying to catch/touch little living things.

Just so chilling and relaxing to spend a day at the beach.

Very very strict parking (you’ll 99% get a ticket if you forget to pay for parking) No shower No amenities around

Definitely need aqua shoes to walk around Need enough water, drinks and food (Watch out seagulls!😳)

But still a beautiful and relaxing...

A wonderful establishment for a beautiful birthday. Excellent choice available menu wise, prices are what one would expect. (being bayside etc..) One thing that was lacking was jugs of water, especially on our hottest day over the weekend. The only option was to fill up small glasses from a slow water dispenser. Having a table of 15 took a long time to sort everyone with a glass, which was finished in 2 mouthfuls. Water bottles would have been a sensible solution. I do not like mentioning anything negative about anywhere we go, however, hydration is of special importance to the 15 people out to lunch for various reasons. Drinks and food were delivered without delay. All in all what a magnificent setting for an enjoyable birthday lunch. Thanks...