Seagrass meadows, mangroves, rocky shores, reefs, sandy beaches, bays, sheltered channels, rivers, creeks and estuaries host a wealth of wildlife including whales, turtles, dugong, grey nurse sharks, fish, corals, birds and several diving opportunities, including Simpson and Hardie artificial reefs and the ex-HMAS Tobruk, to appreciate aquatic wildlife.

The marine park is used for a wide range of activities, from fishing and recreation to defence activities and scientific research. It covers tidal lands and marine waters that form a transition zone between tropical and temperate waters. The changing water temperature drives dynamic life cycles and influences how coral, fish, mangrove and seagrass species are distributed.

Conservation and reasonable use of significant marine natural resources, is achieved through zoning, designated areas, entry and use provisions and permits.