

Best for beginner divers, 5-30m, shore entry, mild current.
The Pools at Hastings Reef is a shore entry site suitable for beginners. The reef environment reaches depths between 5 and 30 metres. Divers and snorkellers may encounter wrasses, which are very common, alongside common sixband parrotfish. Less frequently, visitors might spot Napoleon wrasse, clown triggerfish, regal angelfish, titan triggerfish, whitetip reef sharks, harlequin tuskfish, bluefaced angelfish, and harlequin sweetlips. Other species include uncommon sightings of sixbanded angelfish, teardrop butterflyfish, checkerboard wrasse, and foxface rabbitfish. Conditions feature mild currents, though visibility can shift based on tides and weather. Hazards include jellyfish, sharp coral, and stonefish; shuffle your feet when entering and wear a stinger suit for protection.
-16.51510, 146.01200
Check visibility conditions before heading in, as it can shift noticeably depending on recent weather and tides. Facilities are not guaranteed, so arrive prepared with everything you need.
Shore entry site; shuffle your feet when entering to avoid stonefish.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-30m
Visibility
0m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
24-29°C
Current
Mild
You can regularly encounter wrasses, which are very common. Other species recorded here include sixband parrotfish, Napoleon wrasse, clown triggerfish, regal angelfish, titan triggerfish, whitetip reef sharks, and various butterflyfish and angelfish species.
Yes, The Pools is a shore entry site well-suited to those new to diving or snorkelling.
The site features depths ranging from 5 to 30 metres.
The Pools is a shore entry site.
Yes, the site is suitable for both diving and snorkelling.
Shuffle your feet when entering to avoid stonefish, wear a stinger suit to protect against jellyfish, and be mindful of sharp coral and rocks near the shore.
Diving at The Pools in Cairns requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at The Pools in Cairns. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 29°C.
The Pools in Cairns typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.