

Best for beginner divers, 1-13m, boat entry, mild current.
Coral Gardens at Hastings Reef features a combination of shallow reef and wall topography, making it suitable for beginners. Depths range from 1 to 13 metres with visibility typically between 15 and 30 metres. The site is accessed by boat and experiences mild currents. Divers and snorkellers can explore boulder corals and elephant ear corals. When entering the water, shuffle your feet to avoid sharp coral. Maintain a safe distance from the wall and remain aware of your surroundings for sharks. The site is available for night diving, with typical dive times around 50 minutes. Facilities including showers and a cafe are available.
-16.52860, 145.99240
Take your time on the shallower reef section before dropping to the wall, as the best nudibranch and pipefish sightings tend to be in the first few metres. The visibility is typically at its best in the morning before any afternoon boat traffic stirs things up.
Access is via light aircraft from Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Brisbane, or the Gold Coast, followed by boat or shore entry coordinated through the resort dive shop.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 13m
Visibility
15-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
24-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Yes, the site offers a gentle environment with mild currents and depths ranging from 1 to 13 metres, making it appropriate for those new to diving.
The site ranges from 1 to 13 metres in depth, with an average depth of 13 metres.
This is a boat-only site located 50 kilometres from the shore.
Yes, the site is suitable for both diving and snorkelling activities.
Hazards include sharp coral, which requires shuffling your feet upon entry, and the presence of sharks, which necessitates maintaining a safe distance from the wall.
Diving at Coral Gardens in Bundaberg requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Coral Gardens in Bundaberg. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C.
The best months to visit Coral Gardens in Bundaberg are May, June, July, and August. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Coral Gardens in Bundaberg typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Coral Gardens in Bundaberg typically ranges from 15 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.