Wategos Beach is a shallow reef site in Byron Bay, Australia, offering a sheltered environment for beginners. The site features depths ranging from 2 to 12 metres, with an average of 7 metres. Entry is from the shore, though divers and snorkellers should monitor surf and swell conditions before entering. Visibility typically fluctuates between 5 and 15 metres depending on wind and swell. The beach is protected by a headland, creating generally calm conditions, though moderate currents can occur. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, and showers. Morning visits are recommended to avoid afternoon sea breezes.

Clarkes Beach offers a shallow shore-entry experience featuring a mix of reef and seagrass beds. With depths ranging from 1 to 5 metres, it is well-suited for beginners. A mild northward current typically flows along the beach, though conditions vary based on swell and wind. Divers should be aware that the site is rated as moderately hazardous due to potential wave action on shallow sandbars during lower tides or larger swells. Facilities including parking, toilets, and showers are available on-site, making it a convenient location for a half-day trip. Always check surf conditions prior to entry, as the shore access can become challenging during periods of increased swell.

The Pass at Julian Rocks offers a diverse underwater landscape featuring reef, wall, pinnacle, and cave formations. Located 2500 metres offshore, this site requires boat access and reaches depths between 5 and 20 metres. The area is defined by the convergence of warm tropical and cool temperate waters, resulting in temperatures ranging from 21C to 27C. Divers should be prepared for moderate currents that can strengthen unexpectedly, particularly around the walls and pinnacles. Due to the potential for changing conditions and the presence of sharks, booking a boat charter with an experienced local guide is recommended to navigate the site safely.

Tassie III is a wreck site located at Julian Rocks, offering a shallow experience suitable for beginners. The wreck lies at an average depth of 5 metres, with a maximum depth of 6 metres. Access is via a shore entry, which requires navigating through surf. Divers and snorkellers should remain aware of potential hazards including boat traffic, entanglement risks, surge, and rip currents. When entering or exiting, shuffle your feet to avoid sharp rocks. Visibility typically ranges between 5 and 10 metres, though this fluctuates based on swell and weather conditions. Facilities including parking, toilets, and showers are available nearby.

Julian Rocks is a diverse marine site located 2500 metres off the coast of Byron Bay. The topography consists of reefs, walls, caves, and pinnacles, offering depths between 5 and 22 metres with an average of 16 metres. The site is reached by boat and is suitable for beginners, though divers should be prepared for moderate currents from the East Australian Current, which can strengthen unexpectedly. Visibility ranges from 5 to 25 metres. The confluence of warm tropical and cool temperate waters supports a wide variety of marine life and habitats. Local facilities include boat charters, guided tours, equipment rental, and air fills.

Brunswick River provides a shallow, sheltered environment for beginners, featuring seagrass beds and artificial reef structures. The site is accessed via a shore entry, with depths typically ranging from 1 to 2 metres. Conditions are tidally influenced, with mild currents and visibility between 5 and 10 metres. Snorkelling is recommended at high tide for optimal conditions. As the area is unpatrolled and experiences regular boat traffic, divers and snorkellers should remain clear of the boat channel and use a brightly coloured tow float for safety. Facilities including parking, showers, and toilets are available nearby.

The Boat Channel at Lennox Head is a sheltered shore-entry reef site suitable for beginners. Protected by a natural reef, the area provides a calm environment with mild currents, particularly at high tide. Depths range from 1 to 8 metres, with an average of 4 metres. While the channel offers a protected space, swimmers must remain cautious of rip currents, especially when moving toward the adjacent Seven Mile Beach. Water temperatures remain suitable for swimming year-round, ranging from 21C to 27C. Parking is available on-site, though spaces fill quickly during summer weekends. Visibility can fluctuate based on recent swell conditions.

Flat Rock in Lennox Head is a shore-entry reef site suitable for beginners. The area features shallow rock pools accessible at low tide. Divers and snorkellers may encounter marine life including common sea stars and snails, as well as uncommon species such as the Common Sydney Octopus, Indo-Pacific Sergeant Major, Convict Surgeonfish, sea hares, crabs, hermit crabs, and sea cucumbers. Rare sightings include the Blue Button, Atlantic Sea Swallow, and East-Australian Stripey. As a popular surf break, the site is subject to surge and rip currents. Always check local surf reports before entering the water. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, and showers.