

Best for beginner divers, 1-8m, boat entry, variable current.
Coral Gardens is a shallow reef site located off Lady Elliot Island, Australia, offering depths between 1 and 8 metres with an average of 5 metres. This site is suitable for beginners and accessible via boat. Visibility typically ranges from 20 to 40 metres, though currents are variable and require checking with a guide before entry. The site supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates. Divers should be aware of boat traffic and maintain respectful interactions with marine life, including resident white-tip reef sharks often found resting on the sand. Guided tours and equipment rental are available on the island.
-24.10950, 152.71220
June through August brings the most settled conditions and the best visibility, so if you can choose your travel dates, aim for that window. A guided tour is genuinely worthwhile here, as a local guide will know where the turtles and manta rays tend to patrol on any given day.
Access is via boat from the Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort. The island itself is reached by light aircraft from Bundaberg or Hervey Bay. All dives are escorted by the resort's dive team; no independent shore diving is permitted.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 8m
Visibility
20-40m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
22-28°C
Current
Variable
Typical Dive
30 min
Best Time
Jun, Jul, Aug
The site supports a variety of reef fish and invertebrates. Divers may also encounter resident white-tip reef sharks resting on the sand.
Yes, the shallow depths of 1 to 8 metres make this an approachable site for those just starting out.
The site ranges from 1 to 8 metres deep, with an average depth of 5 metres.
Coral Gardens is a boat dive; a boat is required to access the site.
June, July, and August offer the most settled conditions and the best visibility.
Diving at Coral Gardens in Bundaberg requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Coral Gardens in Bundaberg. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Coral Gardens in Bundaberg. Water temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C.
Divers at Coral Gardens in Bundaberg should be aware of jellyfish, lionfish, sharks, stonefish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Currents at Coral Gardens in Bundaberg are variable and can change with tides and conditions. Always check current conditions before diving.
Visibility at Coral Gardens in Bundaberg typically ranges from 20 metres to 40 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.