

Best for beginner divers, 6-10m, shore entry, moderate current.
Cottage by the Sea is a shallow reef located 100 metres offshore from Portsea. This site features depths between 6 and 10 metres, with an average of 8 metres, making it suitable for beginners. Divers and snorkellers can expect visibility ranging from 10 to 30 metres. Access is via a shore entry, though users should shuffle their feet in the shore break to avoid stingrays. Conditions include moderate currents and potential boat traffic, requiring the use of a surface marker buoy. Water temperatures fluctuate between 13C and 19C throughout the year. Parking is available at the site, and night diving is permitted.
-38.27235, 144.64984
Plan the dive around the slack water timing using the Port of Melbourne tide chart for the Heads, aiming to enter the water at the start of slack water and exit before the tide turns to flood.
Park at the reserve at the corner of Swanston Street and The Esplanade in Queenscliff, then walk a 150-metre track over the sand dunes to the beach.
Recorded at this site
Depth
6-10m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
13-19°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
60 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar
Yes, the shallow depths of 6 to 10 metres make this a comfortable option for beginners, though they should be mindful of moderate currents.
The site has a depth range of 6 to 10 metres, with an average depth of 8 metres.
This is a shore entry site located 100 metres from the coast.
Yes, the site is suitable for both diving and snorkelling.
January, February, and March offer the best visibility conditions for diving and snorkelling.
Be cautious of boat traffic, strong currents, and surf. Always shuffle your feet when entering through the shore break to avoid stingrays.
Diving at Cottage by the Sea in Queenscliff requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Cottage by the Sea in Queenscliff. Water temperatures range from 13°C to 19°C.
Expect moderate currents at Cottage by the Sea in Queenscliff. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Cottage by the Sea in Queenscliff typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.