What is freshwater beach like?

Freshwater Beach is the first beach north of Manly, New South Wales, on the Peninsula. The beach is flanked by a headland at each end and can produce excellent surf. There is a large rock pool at the northern end. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards and has its own surf lifesaving club.



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Despite what the name implies, freshwater beaches aren't entirely free from salt. The waters that you can find at freshwater beaches contain a low percentage of salt to the point that no one is going to notice it—below one percent salinity.

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Contamination at freshwater beaches can come from many sources. In some areas, stormwater runoff and combined sewer overflows are an issue, just as with saltwater beaches. In other areas, bacteria from human waste in septic systems can travel through groundwater or stormwater and contaminate beaches.

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As water flows from land to coastal waters, it is often contaminated by untreated sewage from boats, pets, failing septic systems, fertilizers, and spills from hazardous substances. High levels of bacteria and other chemicals in the water can cause gastrointestinal illnesses in those who swim directly in the water.

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That means snorkeling is not just for people who can swim, it's for anyone who can use a floatation device. Luckily, they are pretty easy to use.

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In most cases, we don't recommend diving underwater for any more than 2 minutes with a full face snorkel. Even if you are an experienced snorkeler who is going out in perfect conditions, we don't recommend diving for more than 2 minutes.

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