South Rock Pools in Darwin Harbour provides a shallow, shore-entry snorkel experience suitable for beginners. The site features a rocky topography with depths ranging from 0 to 2 metres, averaging 1 metre. Conditions are variable, with mild currents and visibility dependent on tide and weather. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, and showers. Visitors should exercise caution due to the presence of saltwater crocodiles, dangerous tropical jellyfish, and surf. It is recommended to wear protective footwear to navigate the rocky entry and avoid sea urchins. The most settled conditions for visiting occur during the dry season months from May through October.

Doctors Gully in Darwin Harbour is a shallow, tide-dependent site ideal for snorkelling. Reaching depths of only 0 to 2 metres, the area is accessible directly from the shore. The site is best visited around high tide, when water levels allow for a 60-minute experience in the shallows. Facilities at the location include parking, toilets, and a cafe. Due to the nature of the site, water visibility can vary significantly based on tidal conditions. Visitors should be aware of marine stingers, particularly during the wet season from November to April. The site is suitable for beginners and requires no prior diving experience.

Big Buoy is a shore entry site in the Northern Territory suited to beginners looking for a relaxed introduction to the underwater world. The water is shallow and generally calm, making it a comfortable spot to build confidence at your own pace. Visibility can vary from visit to visit, so conditions on the day will shape your experience. You can expect to encounter various reef species during your time in the water. The site has no noted hazards, and with parking, toilets, changing rooms, a cafe, and first aid on site, it is well set up for a straightforward day out. Plan your visit between May and October for the most reliable conditions.

The USS Peary is a US destroyer resting upright on the seabed at depths between 26 and 33 metres. Sunk during a 1942 air raid, the wreck is heavily salvaged with sharp edges and twisted metal, posing significant entanglement risks. This advanced site requires boat access and is subject to powerful tidal currents and low visibility, often ranging from 2 to 7 metres. Divers must time their entry around slack tide. Hazards include boat traffic, jellyfish, and the presence of saltwater crocodiles. Species recorded around this area include giant guitarfish, bluespotted fantail rays, rock cod, and various pufferfish. Night diving is possible, though conditions remain challenging.

East Point Bombies is a shallow reef site located off the Cox Peninsula, featuring isolated coral outcrops. Divers can explore the structure at depths ranging from the surface to 12 metres. Access is strictly by boat, and the site is suitable for beginners, though it is subject to moderate currents that can strengthen significantly. Visibility typically ranges between 5 and 10 metres. To manage the flow, it is recommended to time dives around slack water. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, ranging from 26C to 31C. Night diving is possible at this location.

Darwin Waterfront Recreation Lagoon is a man-made, shallow environment in Darwin Harbour designed for beginner snorkelers. The site features a sandy floor and reaches a maximum depth of 2 metres, with an average of 1 metre. A seawall protects the area from crocodiles, and mesh screens are installed to mitigate marine stinger risks. Swimmers may encounter Cassiopeia jellyfish resting on the bottom, which can sting if touched. Visibility is often limited. Species recorded around this area include giant guitarfish, bluespotted fantail rays, and various pufferfish. Facilities include parking, toilets, showers, and a cafe. The dry season from May to September offers the most comfortable conditions.

The Song Saigon is an artificial reef and wreck dive located in Darwin Harbour. The vessel sits at depths between 19 and 25 metres, with an average depth of 24 metres. This site is suitable for intermediate divers and requires boat access. Conditions are characterised by mild currents and low visibility, typically around 5 metres. Divers should be prepared for jellyfish and maintain good buoyancy control, especially when navigating the wreck structure. A dive torch is recommended to assist with navigation in the low-light environment. Species recorded around this area include giant guitarfish, bluespotted fantail rays, rock cod, pufferfish, and various baitfish.

Dudley Bommies is a shallow reef site located off the Cox Peninsula. The site is defined by strong tidal currents resulting from the large tidal range in Darwin Harbour, which can reach up to 8 metres. Due to these conditions, diving is generally restricted to neap tides, and divers must plan their entry around slack water. Access is possible by boat or from the shore. Water temperatures are warm, ranging from 26C to 31C throughout the year. Hazards at this location include strong tidal currents, rip currents, dangerous tropical jellyfish, and the presence of saltwater crocodiles. Divers should maintain high situational awareness and check local conditions before entering the water.