Located 60 kilometres from Cairns, this reef site offers accessible diving in depths ranging from 5 to 14 metres. The topography features hard and soft corals, with mild currents providing manageable conditions for beginners. Visibility varies significantly from 5 to 30 metres. Divers may encounter Napoleon Wrasse, Great Barracuda, Giant Guitarfish, Australian Whipray, and various wrasses, pufferfish, and angelfish. Crabs are very common throughout the reef. Due to the presence of jellyfish and sharp coral, divers should wear a stinger suit and exercise caution when entering the water. Boat charters are required to reach this site, which supports year-round diving and night dives.

Crystal Cascades is a freshwater canyon site in Cairns, Australia, offering a drift dive experience. The topography consists of a creek environment with high granite boulders. Depths range from 0 to 12 metres, with an average of 6 metres. Conditions are variable, with visibility between 5 and 15 metres and currents that can be strong. Due to the risk of flash flooding and entanglement, this site is suited for intermediate divers. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, and changing rooms. Species recorded around this area include various crabs, snails, and freshwater fish, though these have not been confirmed at this specific location.

Palm Cove Beach offers a shallow shore entry suitable for beginners, with depths ranging from 1 to 3 metres. The site features seagrass beds that provide a habitat for various reef fish and invertebrates. The current is generally mild, as the area is sheltered by the Great Barrier Reef. Visibility is limited, typically around 1 metre. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of hazards including sharp coral, estuarine crocodiles, and jellyfish. Stinger season occurs from November to May, during which time swimming inside designated stinger nets is advised. A full stinger suit is recommended for protection. Facilities including a cafe are available nearby.

Nudey Beach on Fitzroy Island provides a shallow, accessible reef environment suitable for beginners. Divers and snorkellers can enter directly from the shore to explore depths between 1 and 5 metres, with an average depth of 2 metres. The site features a variety of marine life, including wrasses, which are very common, alongside uncommon sightings of Green Sea Turtles, Hawksbill Sea Turtles, Bluespotted Fantail Rays, and Titan Triggerfish. Visibility ranges from 1 to 8 metres and can be affected by currents. Hazards include sharp coral and jellyfish, particularly during stinger season from October to May. Protective suits are recommended during these months. Be mindful of boat traffic near the entry point.

Fitzroy Island offers accessible fringing reef diving and snorkelling located 25 kilometres from Cairns. The reef begins in shallow water and slopes gently to a maximum depth of 15 metres, with an average depth of 8 metres. Entry is possible from the shore at Welcome Bay or via boat. The site is suitable for beginners, featuring mild currents and warm water temperatures between 24C and 30C. Visibility typically ranges from 5 to 15 metres. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of seasonal jellyfish presence from November to May and local boat traffic. Facilities including air fills, a dive shop, and a cafe are available on the island.

Double Island, located off Palm Cove, offers a reef environment suitable for beginners. Divers can explore depths ranging from 5 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres. Access is strictly by boat, as the site is 20 kilometres from the shore. Visibility fluctuates between 5 and 35 metres, and currents are generally mild. The site supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates typical of the region. Hazards include sharp coral, sharks, and the presence of estuarine crocodiles. During warmer months from October to May, stinging jellyfish such as Box Jellyfish and Irukandji are a known risk. Always consult your boat operator regarding current and jellyfish conditions before departure.

Queensland Reef at Green Island offers a shallow, shore-entry experience suitable for beginners. The site features depths ranging from 1 to 5 metres, with an average of 3 metres. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of variable visibility, which typically fluctuates between 3 and 10 metres. Currents are generally mild but can shift, so checking local conditions before entry is recommended. Hazards include sharp coral and rocks, requiring caution during entry and exit. Additionally, jellyfish are present in these shallow waters, making the use of a stinger suit advisable. Typical dives last approximately 45 minutes, providing a practical environment for building confidence in a reef setting.

Green Island is a coral cay located 1500 metres offshore from Cairns, offering a gentle introduction to the Great Barrier Reef. The site features a reef that slopes from 1 to 15 metres, with an average depth of 5 metres. Divers and snorkellers can access the water via shore or boat. Conditions are generally sheltered with mild currents and visibility ranging from 1 to 30 metres. Water temperatures remain warm year-round, between 24 and 30C. Species recorded around this area include Green Sea Turtles, Napoleon Wrasse, Giant Trevally, and various reef fish. Facilities on the island include equipment rental, showers, and a dive shop.