The largest and most prominent of the rocky 'islands' in Torbay is Thatcher Rock. Standing 43m high it is 180m off the shore at the eastern end of Meadfoot Beach, just off Thatcher Point.

Being such a large lump of uninhabited rock it is a haven for seabirds and the surrounding waters are well worth further exploration. This is going to be a simple guide, really aimed at snorkellers/divers who are on their way back from another site.

Because of its location, Thatcher Rock is swept twice a day by reasonably strong tidal currents, Some of the strongest currents are to be found running through the 'gut' between Thatcher Rock and Thatcher Point to the north. Obviously back in time this is where Thatcher Rock was joined to the mainland, but now there is a fairly shallow sandy reef lying between the two its great fun to do some drift diving too. high tide you will be in about 7-8m of water.

Because of the current there is a large population of Dead Men's Fingers,Jewel Anemones.

Among the anemones you will find various encrusting sponges. Underneath the rocks you may see Edible Crabs, Common Prawn and the ever-feisty Velvet Swimmer Crabs.

The largest and most prominent of the rocky 'islands' in Torbay is Thatcher Rock. Standing 43m high it is 180m off the shore at the eastern end of Meadfoot Beach, just off Thatcher Point.

Being such a large lump of uninhabited rock it is a haven for seabirds and the surrounding waters are well worth further exploration. This is going to be a simple guide, really aimed at snorkellers/divers who are on their way back from another site.

Because of its location, Thatcher Rock is swept twice a day by reasonably strong tidal currents, Some of the strongest currents are to be found running through the 'gut' between Thatcher Rock and Thatcher Point to the north. Obviously back in time this is where Thatcher Rock was joined to the mainland, but now there is a fairly shallow sandy reef lying between the two its great fun to do some drift diving too. high tide you will be in about 7-8m of water.

Because of the current there is a large population of Dead Men's Fingers,Jewel Anemones.

Among the anemones you will find various encrusting sponges. Underneath the rocks you may see Edible Crabs, Common Prawn and the ever-feisty Velvet Swimmer Crabs.