

Best for advanced divers, boat entry, moderate current.
Bare Sand Island is a remote reef site located within Bynoe Harbour, Northern Territory. Access is by boat only, and the site is suited for advanced divers due to the significant tidal range of up to 8 metres, which creates moderate to strong currents. Divers must plan entries around slack tide to manage these variable conditions. Water temperatures range from 26C to 31C throughout the year. Saltwater crocodiles are a known hazard in the harbour, and divers should check local conditions before departure. The site offers a 3/5 rating for snorkelling, though the unpredictable nature of the harbour requires careful planning and self-sufficiency.
-12.60776, 130.39543
Plan your entry around slack tide to manage the variable currents, and check locally for up-to-date harbour conditions before heading out as Bynoe Harbour can behave unpredictably. Dugong sightings are more likely during the dry season months, so prioritise that window if wildlife is your goal.
Access is by private boat. Public access is permitted to the intertidal zone for recreational activities including snorkelling.
Recorded at this site
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
26-31°C
Current
Moderate
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
No, this site is intended for advanced divers due to the strong tidal currents and unpredictable harbour conditions.
The site is located 15 kilometres from shore and requires boat access.
Yes, the site has a snorkel rating of 3/5, though divers and snorkellers must be aware of strong currents and the presence of saltwater crocodiles.
The most reliable conditions occur during the dry season months of May, June, July, August, September, and October.
The main hazards are strong tidal currents and the presence of saltwater crocodiles in the harbour.
Diving at Bare Sand Island in Cox Peninsula requires the following certifications: Open Water, Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Bare Sand Island in Cox Peninsula. Water temperatures range from 26°C to 31°C.
Expect moderate currents at Bare Sand Island in Cox Peninsula. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.