Warrnambool - Shelly Beach

Shelly Beach is a rugged and relatively secluded beach reached by walking through Thunder Point Coastal Reserve. The beach is known for its shells, rock pools, rocky outcrops and wild Southern Ocean scenery. It is a good destination for families interested in coastal walking and nature exploration, but its strong permanent rips make it unsuitable for swimming.

Beach length: Approximately 600 metres
Beachsafe hazard rating: 7/10 - highly hazardous
Patrol: Unpatrolled
Access: Approximately one kilometre from Thunder Point car park
Terrain: Undulating walking track with some uneven sections

Features:

Sandy beach containing abundant shells
Rock pools and weathered rocky outcrops
Rugged Southern Ocean scenery
Coastal vegetation and birdlife
Opportunities for beachcombing, nature observation and photography
Walking connection with Thunder Point and Levys Beach

Facilities:

Parking at Thunder Point car park
Formed coastal walking track
Lookouts along the surrounding coastline
No toilets or other facilities at the beach

Safety:

Shelly Beach is unpatrolled and has no lifesaving service.
Strong permanent rips flow out near the points at either end of the beach.
The beach is better suited to walking and nature exploration than swimming.
Closely supervise children around the water and rock pools.
Rocks can be slippery and exposed to large, unexpected waves.
Stay on the walking track and away from unstable cliff edges.
The undulating and sometimes uneven track is unsuitable for visitors with limited mobility.

Access for Dogs:

Dogs must normally be kept on a leash. The Thunder Point and Shelly Beach area may be temporarily closed to all dogs and other pets during fox-baiting programs and for several weeks afterwards. Check current Council notices and signs before visiting.

Shelly Beach is accessed from Thunder Point car park, off MacDonald Street, Warrnambool.