

Best for intermediate divers, 5-30m, boat entry, moderate current.
Solitary Islands Marine Park in New South Wales features a diverse convergence zone where tropical and temperate currents meet. The topography includes reefs, pinnacles, walls, and caves at depths between 5 and 30 metres. Divers encounter species such as grey nurse sharks, spotted wobbegongs, zebra sharks, and various nudibranchs like the splendid goniobranch. Wrasses are very common throughout the year. Conditions vary with moderate currents, which can be strong at exposed locations like Pimpernel Rock. Visibility ranges from 10 to 30 metres. Access is strictly by boat, and the site is best suited for intermediate divers due to potential currents and depth requirements.
-29.92800, 153.39300
November through April brings the warmest, clearest water and the best chance of manta ray encounters, so plan your trip in this window if your schedule allows. Always check conditions with your charter operator before committing to the deeper sites, as current strength can escalate quickly.
Access to the islands is via boat, typically with dive and snorkel charter operators departing from Coffs Harbour or Wooli. Travel time to South Solitary is 30-40 minutes from Coffs Harbour, and North Solitary is 60-80 minutes.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-30m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
20-26°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Nov, Dec
Divers regularly encounter grey nurse sharks, spotted wobbegongs, zebra sharks, and wrasses. Rarer sightings include emperor angelfish, Spanish dancers, green sea turtles, and various nudibranch species.
The site is generally recommended for intermediate divers due to the presence of strong currents, deep sections reaching 30 metres, and potential overhead environments in caves.
Depths at the site range from 5 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres.
Yes, all diving and snorkelling at this site requires boat access.
Snorkelling is possible but has a low rating of 1/5, as the site is primarily focused on boat-based diving.
The best months to visit are November, December, January, February, March, and April, which offer the warmest water temperatures and clearest conditions.
Diving at Solitary Islands Marine Park in North Coast requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Solitary Islands Marine Park in North Coast. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Solitary Islands Marine Park in North Coast. Water temperatures range from 20°C to 26°C.
Expect moderate currents at Solitary Islands Marine Park in North Coast. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Solitary Islands Marine Park in North Coast typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.