

Leather Jacket Alley earns its name honestly. This shallow reef site sits at 9 to 10 metres with around 10 metres of visibility, making it easy to relax and watch the action. The namesake leatherjackets and pygmy leatherjackets are the main draw, often appearing in good numbers around the reef structure. You will also find cuttlefish, squid, old wives, strongies, spider crabs, and sea pike sharing the space, along with sea tulips anchored to the reef. Be aware that currents here can run moderate to strong despite the beginner-friendly depth, so check conditions before jumping in and stay close to the reef for shelter.
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The current can pick up quickly, so time your dive around slack water if you can get local tide information beforehand. A wetsuit with adequate thickness is essential year-round in South Australian waters, as the cold will catch you off guard.
Access is by boat, typically from the West Beach boat ramp, which is approximately 2kms away.
Water can be very cold in winter, requiring a thick wetsuit or drysuit. Tidal currents can be strong at times.
Depth
9-10m
Visibility
10m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
22-29°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Year-round
Yes, Leather Jacket Alley in Adelaide is a boat-access-only dive site. You will need to book with a local dive operator or charter a boat to reach it.
Yes, parking is available near Leather Jacket Alley. Arrive early during peak seasons as spaces can fill up quickly.
Leather Jacket Alley in Adelaide is well-suited for beginner divers and snorkellers. Conditions are typically calm with easy entry and shallow depths.
Diving at Leather Jacket Alley in Adelaide requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Leather Jacket Alley in Adelaide. Water temperatures range from 22°C to 29°C.
Leather Jacket Alley in Adelaide is home to leatherjackets, pygmy leatherjacket, cuttlefish, squid, old wives, and strongies. Marine life sightings vary by season and conditions.
The best months to visit Leather Jacket Alley in Adelaide are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Leather Jacket Alley in Adelaide has depths ranging from 9 metres to 10 metres.
Leather Jacket Alley in Adelaide typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Leather Jacket Alley in Adelaide typically ranges from 10 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.