Lithou Reefs combines a dramatic wall with open reef structure, dropping from 15 metres down to 65 metres in deep diving territory. Visibility regularly reaches 30 to 50 metres, which means you can see what's coming from a long way off. And what's coming is often impressive: silvertip, grey reef, and whitetip reef sharks patrol the wall consistently, with hammerheads a genuine possibility. Dog tooth tuna, big eye trevally, and barracuda sweep through in open water, while humphead parrotfish and potato cod hold closer to the reef structure. Current runs mild, but decompression diving is on the cards at depth, and jellyfish can be present, so plan your gas accordingly.
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Build your dive plan around the deeper sections early, when you're freshest and your gas management is tightest, then work shallower for your decompression stops where shark activity along the wall keeps the time well spent. Check locally for jellyfish conditions before kitting up, as exposure protection choices can matter here.
The reef is remote, located approximately 360 nautical miles (667 km) east of Cairns. Access is only possible via long-range private vessels or specialist liveaboard dive charters departing from Queensland ports.
The site is very deep, requiring careful dive planning. Numerous sharks are present. Box and Irukandji jellyfish can be present during the summer wet season (November to April). The site's extreme remoteness is a significant hazard in case of an emergency.
Depth
15-65m
Visibility
30-50m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
24-29°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Year-round
Yes, Lithou Reefs in Coral Sea Reefs is a boat-access-only dive site. You will need to book with a local dive operator or charter a boat to reach it.
Lithou Reefs in Coral Sea Reefs requires advanced diving skills. Expect deeper depths, currents, or challenging conditions that are not suitable for newly certified divers.
Diving at Lithou Reefs in Coral Sea Reefs requires the following certifications: Advanced, Deep. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Lithou Reefs in Coral Sea Reefs. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 29°C.
Lithou Reefs in Coral Sea Reefs is home to silvertip shark, grey reef sharks, white tip reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, dog tooth tuna, and barracuda. Marine life sightings vary by season and conditions.
The best months to visit Lithou Reefs in Coral Sea Reefs are May, June, July, August, September, October, September, October, November, December, January, and February. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Lithou Reefs in Coral Sea Reefs has depths ranging from 15 metres to 65 metres.
Divers at Lithou Reefs in Coral Sea Reefs should be aware of jellyfish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Lithou Reefs in Coral Sea Reefs typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Lithou Reefs in Coral Sea Reefs typically ranges from 30 metres to 50 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.
