

Best for intermediate divers, shore entry, moderate current.
Cape Buffon at Southend is a shore-accessible reef system located in South Australia. This site is suited for intermediate divers, offering an opportunity to explore temperate reef structures. Entry and exit are conducted over rocks, which can be sharp and slippery, requiring protective footwear. The site is exposed to the Southern Ocean, meaning divers should monitor for surf and moderate currents. Water temperatures range from 14C to 17C throughout the year. Visibility can be variable, so conditions should be assessed before entering the water. The reef habitat supports a variety of temperate marine life, including sponges, sea stars, and various reef fish and invertebrates.
-37.56980, 140.11550
Time your dive for the calmer morning hours when surf tends to settle, and wear solid boots or wetsuit socks to protect your feet against the sharp reef on shore entry. Parking is available at the site.
The site is accessed via the car park at the end of Cape Buffon Drive near Southend. From there, it is a short walk to a rocky shore entry point.
Recorded at this site
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
14-17°C
Current
Moderate
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
The reef habitat supports a variety of temperate marine life, including sponges, sea stars, and various reef fish and invertebrates.
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers due to the exposed nature of the coastline, potential for surf, and the requirement for shore entry over sharp rocks.
Cape Buffon is a shore dive. Entry and exit are performed over rocks, so solid boots or wetsuit socks are recommended.
Yes, Cape Buffon has a snorkel rating of 4/5, though divers and snorkellers should be aware of surf and moderate currents.
The most reliable window for diving at this site is from September through April.
The site is exposed to the ocean and can experience surf, rip currents, and strong currents. Additionally, the entry and exit points feature sharp rocks.
Diving at Cape Buffon (Southend) in Southend requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Cape Buffon (Southend) in Southend. Water temperatures range from 14°C to 17°C.
Expect moderate currents at Cape Buffon (Southend) in Southend. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.