The headland is part of an aquatic reserve established in 1980 to protect marine life and habitats from intertidal harvesting.
The exposed rock layers at the headland date back approximately 200 to 250 million years to the Triassic period.
Long Reef is one of the few places in the Sydney metropolitan area where the Narrabeen Group of rocks is visible at sea level.
During the Second World War, the headland was used as a military training site, and evidence of concrete bunkers can still be found in the surrounding brush.
The reef platform is recognized as one of the best locations in Sydney for examining intertidal ecology due to its accessible biodiversity.
Long Reef Point is a prominent headland featuring a protected aquatic reserve and a segment of the Bicentennial Coastal Walk. The site contains a significant geological sequence of Triassic sedimentary rock, specifically the Hawkesbury Sandstone and the underlying Narrabeen Group. The area serves as a critical nesting site for various shorebirds, including the endangered Little Tern. A well-maintained path traverses the headland, connecting Dee Why Beach to Collaroy Beach. The reef platform is exposed at low tide, revealing extensive rock pools and marine life. Remnants of a former 18-hole golf course are visible along the headland plateau. The site is a popular vantage point for whale watching during the southern migration period. Vegetation consists primarily of coastal heath and scrub, which have been subject to ongoing bush regeneration efforts.
The easternmost tip of the headland provides a 360-degree view of the coastline and the rock platform.
Check the tide charts before visiting, as the most interesting rock pool areas are only accessible and safe during low tide.
Bring binoculars if visiting during the migration season, as the point is a prime location for spotting humpback whales.
Wear shoes with good grip, as the rock platforms are often slippery and covered in algae.
Walking on the rock platforms during high tide or heavy swell, as rogue waves can be dangerous on the exposed reef.
Do not remove any shells, rocks, or marine animals from the aquatic reserve; stay on marked paths to protect native vegetation.
