Cook Island Aquatic Reserve

Cook Island Aquatic Reserve is a marine protected area near Fingal Head spanning 80 hectares of ocean floor. It features diverse coral formations, rocky reefs, and sandy bottoms that drop to various depths.

The New South Wales government established this marine protected area in 1998 under the Fisheries Management Act. This step was taken to preserve marine biodiversity in the region for the future.

The traditional name Jungarra Ngarrian links this marine sanctuary to the indigenous heritage of New South Wales coastal communities. Visitors can encounter this cultural connection through the place's significance to the original inhabitants.

Thirteen designated moorings allow boats to anchor safely without damaging the seabed. Organized tours offer snorkeling and diving experiences for visitors of varying skill levels.

This reserve acts as an ecological bridge between Julian Rocks and Solitary Islands, allowing tropical marine species to move southward along the coast. This role in species movement makes it an overlooked key point in the region's marine ecosystem.