The Ribbon Reefs extend 80 kilometres along the outer Great Barrier Reef, featuring a diverse topography of walls, channels, and reef structures. Depths range from 5 to 40 metres, with an average of 20 metres. These sites are accessed exclusively by boat, typically via liveaboard or day charter from Port Douglas. Divers encounter moderate currents, particularly during incoming tides, which facilitate drift dives at locations such as Dynamite Pass and Cod Hole. Visibility varies from 0 to 40 metres. Water temperatures remain between 25 and 28C throughout the year. Due to the presence of deep water, strong currents, and sharp coral, this area is best suited for intermediate divers.

Lighthouse Bommie is a standalone pinnacle rising from deeper water to within 5 metres of the surface. This site is suited to intermediate divers who can manage strong currents. The structure features colourful corals from the top to the base, with anemones and invertebrates inhabiting the lower nooks and ledges. Visibility varies significantly, ranging from 7 to 30 metres. Divers should be prepared for strong currents and maintain awareness of their position relative to the boat. Hazards include jellyfish and sharks. A full wetsuit is recommended for protection against stings, and divers should time their visit around slack water to ensure manageable conditions.

Challenger Bay is a reef site located within the Lizard Island and Ribbon Reefs area. It features a varied reef system with depths ranging from 5 to 35 metres, averaging 12 metres. The site is accessible only by boat and is suitable for beginners due to its generally mild currents and protected bay location. Visibility varies from 0 to 30 metres. Divers should be aware of hazards including boat traffic, jellyfish, lionfish, stonefish, sharks, and sharp coral. During night dives, predatory fish may use torch beams to hunt, so divers should manage light usage carefully. Water temperatures range from 25C to 28C throughout the year.

Pixie Pinnacle is a boat-access site located near Lizard Island and the Ribbon Reefs. This pinnacle offers a vertical profile ranging from 2 to 40 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. Divers encounter moderate to strong tidal currents that support a diverse ecosystem. Marine life includes very common wrasses, alongside uncommon sightings of whitetip reef sharks, Indian lionfish, coral grouper, and Chromodoris nudibranchs. Rare species such as Napoleon wrasse, leaf scorpionfish, red bass, and freckled hawkfish are also recorded. Due to the depth and current conditions, this site is suitable for advanced divers. Visibility typically ranges from 10 to 30 metres, with water temperatures between 25 and 28C.

The Cod Hole is a prominent site on the outer Ribbon Reefs, featuring a sloping reef wall that descends from 3 to 40 metres. The topography is defined by hard corals, sea fans, and bommies. Divers access this site exclusively by boat, with conditions often supporting drift dives due to moderate currents. Visibility typically ranges from 15 to 40 metres. The site is suitable for intermediate divers who should remain aware of potential current changes and follow guide protocols. Water temperatures remain between 25 and 28C throughout the year. Protective suits are recommended to mitigate risks from jellyfish, particularly during the stinger season from November to May.

Goggle Gardens is a reef and canyon site located within the Ribbon Reefs. The topography features a distinct canyon structure that requires navigation awareness. Divers can expect depths ranging from 5 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres. Visibility at the site typically spans 15 to 30 metres. Access is strictly by boat, and the site is suited for intermediate divers due to moderate currents and the complex canyon layout. Water temperatures fluctuate between 25 and 29 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Hazards include the presence of sharks and strong currents. Guided tours are available and recommended for those unfamiliar with the site structure.

Snake Pit is a reef and drop-off site located at Cod Hole, Australia. Divers can explore depths ranging from 10 to 30 metres. The site requires boat access and is suited for intermediate divers due to moderate currents that can turn strong. Visibility typically ranges between 10 and 30 metres. Species recorded around this area include Napoleon Wrasse, Green Sea Turtle, Indian Lionfish, Harlequin Sweetlips, Whitetip Reef Shark, Potato Bass, Day Octopus, Blacktip Reef Shark, Bluespotted Fantail Ray, Giant Moray, Titan Triggerfish, Broadclub Cuttlefish, Wrasses, and Red Bass. Divers should be aware of the deep drop-off and potential for strong currents. Time your entry to coincide with slack water.

Acropolis is a boat-access reef dive located in the Ribbon Reefs of Australia. The site features depths ranging from 5 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres, making it suitable for beginner divers. Visibility typically spans 15 to 30 metres. Currents vary from mild to strong, and the site is occasionally used for drift dives. Divers should be aware of sharp coral and potential jellyfish during stinger season from November to May. Water temperatures range from 25C to 29C throughout the year. Night diving is available at this location, with typical dive times lasting 45 minutes.