The Coles Bay coastline provides a gentle environment for beginners to explore temperate marine habitats. The site features a mix of reef, kelp forest, and seagrass beds accessible directly from the shore. Conditions are generally sheltered, particularly in areas like Honeymoon Bay, though divers and snorkellers should be prepared for cold water temperatures ranging from 13C to 19C. Thermal protection is essential throughout the year. Hazards include surf, jellyfish, and cold water. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, and a cafe. For the most settled conditions and improved visibility, visit during the summer months of December through March and aim for early morning entries before afternoon winds develop.

Freycinet Peninsula features a shore-accessible reef environment with depths ranging from 5 to 15 metres, averaging 10 metres. The site is suitable for beginners, particularly in sheltered areas like Honeymoon Bay where currents remain mild. Visibility varies significantly, ranging from 9 to 30 metres. Due to water temperatures between 13C and 19C, thick thermal protection such as a 7mm or 9mm drysuit is recommended year-round. Species recorded around this area include wrasses, eagle rays, bobtail squid, Kapala stingaree, reef squid, southern rock lobster, and various sea stars. Basic facilities including parking and toilets are available at the site, and guided tours can be arranged.

Sleepy Bay on the Tasman Peninsula offers a shore-accessible reef dive ranging from 8 to 25 metres in depth. The site is exposed to the open ocean, meaning divers and snorkellers must monitor surf and surge conditions before entry. Visibility can reach up to 30 metres under favourable conditions. Water temperatures remain cool throughout the year, typically between 13C and 19C, necessitating a 7mm wetsuit or drysuit. The site is suitable for beginners and supports night diving. Facilities at the location include parking and showers. Divers should exercise caution regarding swell, as the bay is not sheltered from open ocean conditions.

Richardsons Beach on the Tasman Peninsula offers a sheltered shore entry suitable for beginners. The site features a diverse mix of reef, kelp forest, and seagrass beds, providing varied habitats to explore. Visibility can reach up to 30 metres, though conditions vary. Water temperatures are cold year-round, ranging from 13C to 19C, necessitating a 5mm wetsuit with a hood and gloves for thermal protection. The beach is located in a sheltered bay, which generally results in mild currents, though surge can be a hazard. On-site facilities include parking, toilets, and showers. Species recorded around this area include eagle rays, bobtail squid, blue throated wrasse, and southern rock lobster.

Wineglass Bay on the Tasman Peninsula is a shore-entry reef site suitable for beginners. Divers and snorkellers can explore depths ranging from 1 to 15 metres, with an average depth of 7 metres. Visibility is variable, ranging from 12 to 40 metres. The site is characterised by cold water temperatures between 13C and 19C, necessitating a thick wetsuit of at least 5mm year-round. Facilities at the site include parking and toilets. Conditions can change, so local checks are recommended before entry. The site is accessible for night diving, with typical dive times around 60 minutes.

The Esplanade is a shore-accessible reef located on the Tasman Peninsula. This beginner-friendly site features depths ranging from 1 to 15 metres, with an average depth of 5 metres. The sheltered bay provides mild currents and visibility typically between 15 and 35 metres. Water temperatures remain cold throughout the year, ranging from 13C to 19C, necessitating a 7mm wetsuit with a hood. Species recorded around this area include various wrasses, stingarees, squid, crabs, and sea stars. Parking is available at the site. Due to the cold water, divers and snorkellers should prioritise thermal protection for safety.

Picnic Island is a reef site located 800 metres off the Tasman Peninsula. Accessible only by boat, this site offers depths ranging from 6 to 24 metres. Conditions are generally mild, though visibility fluctuates between 5 and 12 metres. The water temperature remains cold throughout the year, ranging from 13C to 19C, making a wetsuit necessary for all divers and snorkellers. The site is suitable for beginners and supports night diving. Due to the presence of tour boats in the area, all water users should remain vigilant and keep surface markers or snorkel flags visible at all times.

Friendly Beaches in Bicheno offers shore-accessible diving and snorkelling across a reef and kelp forest environment. The site is characterised by sponge gardens and is exposed to the open ocean, resulting in variable visibility and significant surf. Divers and snorkellers must navigate moderate currents and potential rip currents at the entry point. Water temperatures range from 13C to 19C, necessitating a thick, full-length wetsuit year-round to manage the cold. Due to the exposed nature of the coastline and potential for strong surge, this site is best suited for intermediate skill levels. Facilities at the location include parking and toilets.