The Grottos - Rottnest Island snorkelling

The Grottos is a limestone reef just off the north coast at the eastern end of Little Parakeet Bay, and a regular monitoring site for Reef Life Survey divers. The name suggests caves, and the limestone reefs along this stretch of coast are cut by ledges, chasms and arches, but the layout of this particular reef has not been described in print.

Surveys here have recorded a rich mix of fish, with one of the highest fish densities among the island's monitored sites. It is an open reef rather than a sheltered pool, so look from the surface before exploring, never enter a cave you cannot see out of, and keep off the reef.

• Experience level: Moderate
• Depth: 1-6 m
• Access: North coast, on the reef off the headland between Little Parakeet Bay and Geordie Bay; Island Explorer Stop 18 (Little Parakeet Bay) or Stop 19 (Geordie Bay). Swim out about 50 m from the rocky shore, or further from the Little Parakeet Bay beach. No facilities at Little Parakeet Bay; Geordie Bay has toilets and showers. Do not enter caves or overhangs you cannot see out of.
• Limestone Reef
• Reef Survey Site
• Rich Fish Life
• Rock Formations
• Open Reef

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