

Best for beginner divers, shore entry.
Skeleton Bay Reserve in Bicheno is a sheltered shore dive defined by its dense kelp forest. The site features a rocky reef structure that provides habitat for various marine life, including crayfish, abalone, and octopus. Suitable for beginners, the area offers shallow, calm waters, though conditions such as visibility and currents can be variable. Divers and snorkellers should be prepared for cold water temperatures ranging from 13C to 19C throughout the year, making a wetsuit essential. Parking is available at the site. Before entering, observe the surface for dolphins, which occasionally pass through the bay.
-41.24910, 148.31220
Summer visits between December and March give you the best combination of calmer conditions and slightly warmer water temperatures. Dolphins do pass through the bay, so keep an eye on the surface before you enter and during your surface swim out.
The site is accessible via Skeleton Bay Track off Main Road in Binalong Bay. There is vehicle access to the rear of the beach area. Entry is from the shore.
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
13-19°C
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec
Yes, the site is considered suitable for beginners due to its sheltered, shallow, and calm waters.
Yes, both diving and snorkelling are permitted, though the site has a snorkel rating of 1/5.
The best months to visit are December, January, February, and March, which offer the best combination of calmer conditions and warmer water temperatures.
The primary consideration is the cold water, which requires a good wetsuit. Additionally, the area is rocky, and currents can be variable.
Skeleton Bay Reserve is a shore dive with parking available for access.
Diving at Skeleton Bay Reserve in St Helens requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Skeleton Bay Reserve in St Helens. Water temperatures range from 13°C to 19°C.