Arlington Reef is an outer Great Barrier Reef site offering a shallow environment suitable for beginner divers. The reef structure features depths ranging from 5 to 15 metres, with an average depth of 10 metres. Visibility typically spans 10 to 30 metres, though conditions vary. Access is exclusively by boat, with a typical dive duration of 40 minutes. Currents are generally mild, but divers should remain aware of changing conditions. Protective lycra suits are provided by tour operators during the stinger season from November to May to mitigate jellyfish risks. The site is located 40 kilometres from the shore, requiring a boat charter for access.

Thetford Reef, located at Arlington Reef, features a shallow reef top that transitions into a wall descending to 30 metres. This site is suitable for beginners, who can explore the shallower sections starting at 5 metres. Visibility typically ranges from 15 to 30 metres. Access is by boat, and divers should note that currents are variable and can change quickly. When entering the water, be mindful of the significant depth change near the wall. Species recorded around this area include green sea turtles, Napoleon wrasse, bluespotted fantail rays, various wrasses, and anemonefish. Always shuffle your feet in the shallows to avoid sharp coral.

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.

Michaelmas Cay is a coral cay situated 40 kilometres from Cairns, featuring a protected lagoon and shallow reef flats. The site topography consists of a gradual slope extending from the surface to deeper sections, with depths ranging from 0 to 20 metres and an average of 15 metres. Access is strictly by boat. Conditions are generally calm with mild currents, though visibility fluctuates between 10 and 30 metres. The site is suitable for beginners, with guided tours and equipment rental available. Hazards include boat traffic, sharp coral, and jellyfish during the wet season from November to May.

Upolu Cay is a shallow reef site located on the Great Barrier Reef, accessible only by boat. The site features depths ranging from 1 to 18 metres, with an average depth of 12 metres, making it suitable for beginner divers and snorkellers. Visibility typically varies between 8 and 20 metres. While currents are generally mild, they can fluctuate based on tides and wind conditions. Visitors should be aware of jellyfish, particularly during the stinger season from November to May, and wearing a protective suit is recommended. The site is located 30 kilometres from the shore, and boat charters are required for access.

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.

Central, Breaking Patches at Michaelmas Cay features a reef, drop-off, and wall topography. The site ranges from 0 to 24 metres in depth, with an average of 8 metres. Access is by boat only, and the site is suited for intermediate divers due to strong currents, particularly along the western wall. Visibility typically ranges from 10 to 30 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate between 24C and 29C throughout the year. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of hazards including sharp coral, strong currents, and surf. Box jellyfish may be present during peak season. It is recommended to time dives with the slack tide to manage the current.

Blue Lagoon at Hastings Reef offers a straightforward reef and wall dive suitable for beginners. The site features depths ranging from 5 to 20 metres with an average of 13 metres. Divers experience mild currents and visibility typically between 10 and 30 metres. Access is by boat only, and the site is located 55 kilometres from the shore. Divers should be aware of sharp coral on the wall and potential hazards including jellyfish and sharks. When entering the water, be cautious of sharp coral and rocks below. The average dive time is 45 minutes, and water temperatures fluctuate between 24 and 30 degrees Celsius throughout the year.