Half Moon Bay, Melbourne
The Complete Visitor Guide 2026
📍 Half Moon Bay, Beach Road, Black Rock, Victoria 3193, Australia
Half Moon Bay Melbourne Quick Facts
Half moon bay also know as Black rock beach Melbourne
- Distance from Melbourne CBD: ~20 km
- Swimming: Yes
- Public Transport: Train + Bus
- Snorkeling: Excellent
- Dogs: Allowed with seasonal restrictions
- Sharks: Rare
- Famous for: HMVS Cerberus Shipwreck
- Entry Fee Free
- Surfing: Not Suitable
- Half Moon Bay Weather Forecast
Is Half Moon Bay Safe for Swimming?
Yes.
The beach is known for:
- Calm bay conditions
- Soft sandy shoreline
- Gradual water depth
- Family-friendly environment
However, visitors should still watch for:
- Strong winds
- Changing weather
- Rocks near the cliffs
Boat traffic away from swimming areas
Can You Snorkel at Half Moon Bay?
Absolutely.
Half Moon Bay is regarded as one of Melbourne’s top snorkeling locations.
Clear water allows visitors to observe:
- Colorful fish
- Seagrass habitats
- Rays
- Small marine species
- The famous HMVS Cerberus wreck nearby
Many local diving clubs regularly visit the area because visibility is often better than at many other Melbourne beaches.
Can You Dive at Half Moon Bay?
Yes.
The nearby HMVS Cerberus is one of Australia’s most famous dive sites.
Experienced divers visit throughout the year to explore the remains of the historic naval warship, although diving conditions vary depending on weather and water visibility.
Are There Sharks at Half Moon Bay?
Yes—but sightings are uncommon.
Like every beach in Port Phillip Bay, sharks naturally live in the bay.
Species occasionally found include:
- Gummy Shark
- School Shark
- Bronze Whaler (rare)
Serious shark incidents are extremely uncommon, and Half Moon Bay remains a popular swimming destination throughout summer.
Are There Dolphins at Half Moon Bay?
Yes.
Bottlenose dolphins are occasionally spotted around:
- Half Moon Bay
- Black Rock
- Sandringham
- Brighton
Sightings are unpredictable but occur several times throughout the year.