Cardwell Jetty is a shore entry site featuring shallow waters around the jetty pylons and a sandy bottom. This location is suitable for beginners, with parking, toilets, showers, and a cafe available nearby. Visibility is variable and currents can change, requiring caution before entry. The habitat supports various reef fish and invertebrates typical of the region. Significant hazards include the presence of estuarine crocodiles and dangerous stinging jellyfish, particularly from November to May. Due to these risks, the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service advises against swimming in these tidal waters. Divers and snorkellers should exercise extreme caution and wear protective stinger suits.

Cardwell Spa Pools is a shallow freshwater site in Cardwell, Queensland, offering depths between 0 and 2 metres. This shore-entry location is suitable for beginners, though conditions vary significantly based on rainfall. The site features a mild current that can strengthen rapidly during the wet season as water levels rise. Visitors should exercise caution due to slippery rocks and the presence of bullrouts, a type of freshwater stonefish. The habitat supports various freshwater fish and invertebrates typical of the region. Parking is available on-site. For the best experience, visit during the cooler months between May and September when water conditions are more stable.

The Brook Islands feature fringing reefs offering shallow diving and snorkelling in depths ranging from 1 to 12 metres, with an average of 6 metres. This site is suitable for beginners, with generally mild currents and visibility between 5 and 15 metres. Access is exclusively by boat, located 30 kilometres from the mainland. The habitat supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates typical of the region. Divers and snorkellers must be aware of hazards, including sharp coral, jellyfish, and the presence of crocodiles. A full-body lycra suit is recommended for protection against stingers. Vessel speed is restricted to 6 knots within 200 metres of the islands.

Hinchinbrook Island National Park features shallow reef and seagrass habitats accessible by boat. Snorkeling occurs in sheltered bays at depths between 1 and 5 metres, with an average of 3 metres. Visibility ranges from 5 to 20 metres. While currents are generally mild, tidal influence can occur. The site is suitable for beginners, though visitors must remain vigilant regarding local hazards, including crocodiles and dangerous marine stingers. A full-body protective suit is strongly recommended, particularly between November and May. The area supports diverse marine life, including various reef fish and invertebrates typical of the region. Facilities at the site are limited to toilets.

The Family Island Group consists of a series of reefs located between 1 and 15 metres deep, with an average depth of 5 metres. Suitable for beginners, the site offers both shore and boat access with visibility ranging from 12 to 20 metres. Currents are generally mild, though visitors should monitor wind, tide, and current direction. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, ranging from 23C to 29C. Hazards include the presence of crocodiles and stinging jellyfish, particularly between November and April, when protective suits are recommended. Always consult local operators regarding current conditions and jellyfish activity before entering the water.

Coral Bay at Dunk Island is a shallow shore-entry reef suitable for intermediate divers. The site features depths ranging from 3 to 12 metres, with an average of 7 metres. Divers can explore the reef structure, which supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates typical of the region. Visibility varies between 5 and 15 metres, and currents are generally mild. Hazards include sharp coral formations and sea urchins. A protective suit is recommended during the stinger season, which runs from October to May. Facilities at the site include parking, showers, and a rinse station.

Lucinda is an artificial reef site located off the Cardwell Coast in Australia. This site is accessible by boat and is suitable for beginner divers. The area features variable visibility ranging from 5 to 25 metres and mild currents. Divers should remain aware of significant hazards, including boat traffic from the active sugar loading shipping channel, the presence of jellyfish, and potential encounters with bull sharks or crocodiles. Water temperatures fluctuate between 23C and 29C throughout the year. Parking is available at the shore for those preparing for boat departures.

Dunk Island is a reef site located 4000 metres offshore, accessible exclusively by boat. The area features shallow, calm waters suitable for beginner snorkellers. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of variable currents and the presence of jellyfish, particularly during the stinger season from November to May. Saltwater crocodiles may also be present in the region. Facilities available include equipment rental, guided tours, and boat charters. The site is best visited between April and October for more reliable conditions. Always consult with your boat operator regarding current strength before entering the water.