EN
ES
DE
Australia
Australia's diving is split between two coasts and three very different worlds.
The Great Barrier Reef (Queensland, east coast) is the largest reef system on Earth — 2,300 kilometers long, visible from space. The Outer Reef and the Ribbon Reefs (accessed by liveaboards from Cairns or Port Douglas) offer the best diving: bommies, drop-offs, and minke whale encounters June through July.
Also on the east coast, further south near Townsville, is the SS Yongala — a 110-meter passenger steamer sunk in a cyclone in 1911, encrusted with coral and surrounded by some of the densest marine life in the country. Bull sharks, giant groupers, sea snakes, eagle rays. Consistently ranked in the top five wreck dives in the world.
On the west coast, Ningaloo Reef is where the whale sharks come — March through July, they feed along the edge of the reef and reliable snorkel encounters are run daily from Exmouth. Ningaloo is also the best place in the world for manta interactions (October–December) and humpback whale swims (August–October).
The selection.
Search Flights
Bookings through this form support independent dive journalism.
Search Flights & Hotels · Australia
Compare live prices across hundreds of airlines and accommodations — all in one place.
How to get there.
Flight gateway data · updated daily
Book Your Airport Transfer
Bookings through this widget support independent dive journalism.
Dive sites.
Dive sites map
Delayed, cancelled, or overbooked? You may be entitled to up to €600 per passenger.
Frequently asked questions
Q01
When is the best time to dive in Australia?
+
When is the best time to dive in Australia?
The best months for diving in Australia are April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November. During this period water conditions, visibility, and marine life activity are typically at their peak.
Q02
What is the water temperature in Australia?
+
What is the water temperature in Australia?
Water temperatures in Australia range from 22°C to 28°C throughout the year. A 3mm wetsuit is generally sufficient during warmer months; consider a 5mm for cooler periods.
Q03
What visibility can I expect diving in Australia?
+
What visibility can I expect diving in Australia?
Underwater visibility in Australia typically ranges from 15 to 30 meters, depending on season and dive site. Optimal visibility is generally achieved during the dry season.
Q04
What are the most famous dive sites in Australia?
+
What are the most famous dive sites in Australia?
Some of the most iconic dive sites in Australia include SS Yongala, Ribbon Reef No. 10, Osprey Reef. Each offers a distinctive experience — from dramatic walls and wrecks to pelagic encounters and macro photography hotspots.
Q05
Where should I stay when diving in Australia?
+
Where should I stay when diving in Australia?
We list curated dive resorts and accommodations near the best dive sites in Australia. See the Resorts section above for our selected properties, or search Booking.com for a broader range of hotels.
Q06
Do I need a certification to dive in Australia?
+
Do I need a certification to dive in Australia?
Most dive operators in Australia require at least an Open Water certification (PADI, SSI, or equivalent). Advanced sites may require Advanced Open Water or specific experience levels. Discover Scuba Diving experiences are often available for beginners.
Liveaboards & Dive Packages
Live aboard a vessel and dive multiple times daily — the purest form of scuba travel. These platforms specialise in booking dive liveaboards and resort packages.
Where to Stay
Find accommodation near the best dive sites
Top Things to Do
Bookings through this widget support independent dive journalism.
Diving Tours & Activities
Book diving experiences with local operators
Also search on
Search flights on Kiwi.com →