In 1896, after a visit from "H.M. Australian squadron", Norfolk Bay was "stated to be pre-eminently fitted for naval manoeuvres"[3] In years gone by the waters of this bay were infested with enormous sharks, which were regularly fed by the authorities, to prevent the possibility of convicts escaping from the peninsula to the mainland by swimming.

The following suburbs surround Norfolk bay: Connellys Marsh, Dunalley, Murdunna, Eaglehawk Neck, Taranna, Koonya, Premaydena and Saltwater River.

Whilst the shallowness can result in fairly choppy conditions in strong winds, especially from the South West, there is no swell to compound the situation.

During summer months the sea breeze can bring strong Easterlies but, as with most waters in this part of the world, watch for the south westerly change.Sand flathead is the predominant recreational fish species which can be found within Norfolk Bay.

A study by the University of Tasmania found that the greatest density of flathead occur southeast of a line connecting Premaydena and Boxalls Bay, particularly towards Koonya.