Geography and features
The Bay of Martyrs is an open, south-west facing embayment approximately 2.5 kilometres (1.6 mi) long. Its coastline is characterised by numerous offshore reefs and limestone sea stacks, while much of the shoreline is formed by reddish limestone bluffs rising to around 10 metres (33 ft). Several smaller coves and beaches occur within the bay, including Massacre Bay and Crofts Bay. Martyrs Beach occupies the eastern end of the larger bay.
Martyrs Beach faces south-west and is backed by a combination of low dunes and irregular limestone bluffs. The Great Ocean Road passes close behind the shoreline, with a car park and beach access situated at the eastern end. Offshore reefs reduce wave energy reaching the beach, and surf conditions are generally less energetic than on more exposed sections of the surrounding coast.
The reefs become more exposed as the tide falls, while higher tides cover more of the shallow reef platform. Martyrs Beach is one of the more accessible and comparatively sheltered swimming locations within the bay, although conditions remain dependent on tide and swell. Surfing generally occurs on offshore reef breaks rather than directly from the beach. The shallow reefs are also used for recreational fishing, particularly around higher tide.
The beach provides habitat for the hooded plover, which nests along this section of coast. Visitors are advised to keep clear of the birds and nesting areas. Dogs are not permitted on Martyrs Beach because of the presence of breeding hooded plovers, although they are permitted on some adjoining walking tracks and beaches elsewhere between the Bay of Martyrs car park and Peterborough.
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