

Best for beginner divers, 2-15m, shore entry, mild current.
Chilli Beach in Lockhart River offers a shallow reef environment with depths ranging from 2 to 15 metres, averaging 8 metres. Accessible via shore entry, the site is located 500 metres from the coastline. Conditions include mild currents and visibility between 10 and 20 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate between 25C and 29C throughout the year. Species recorded around this area include crabs and snails. Entering the water is extremely hazardous due to the presence of saltwater crocodiles, rip currents, sharks, sharp coral, and stonefish. Dangerous marine stingers, including Box Jellyfish and Irukandji, are also present, particularly during warmer months. Swimming and snorkelling are not recommended.
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Crocodiles are a genuine risk at Chilli Beach, not a theoretical one, so always scan the water's edge carefully before entering and avoid early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. Visiting during the dry season, May to October, gives you the most settled conditions and reduces jellyfish numbers.
Access is via high-clearance 4WD only. From the Kutini-Payamu (Iron Range) National Park entrance, drive 36.9km along Portland Roads Road to the Chilli Beach turn-off, then a further 6km to the camping area. The park is remote and roads are impassable during the wet season (November to April).
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Depth
Up to 15m
Visibility
10-20m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
25-29°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Species recorded around this area include crabs and snails.
While the site is classified for beginner skill levels, entering the water is extremely hazardous due to significant dangers including saltwater crocodiles and marine stingers.
The depth ranges from 2 to 15 metres, with an average depth of 8 metres.
Chilli Beach is a shore entry site located 500 metres from the shore.
Snorkelling is possible but not recommended due to the extreme hazards present in the water.
The best months to visit are during the dry season from May to October, which offers more settled conditions and reduced jellyfish numbers.
Diving at Chilli Beach in Far North Queensland requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Chilli Beach in Far North Queensland. Water temperatures range from 25°C to 29°C.
Divers at Chilli Beach in Far North Queensland should be aware of crocodiles, stonefish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Chilli Beach in Far North Queensland typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Chilli Beach in Far North Queensland typically ranges from 10 metres to 20 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.