

Best for beginner divers, 0m, shore entry, mild current.
Duke of Orleans Bay is a shore-accessible site in Australia featuring a mix of reef and seagrass habitats. The bay is generally sheltered with mild currents, making it suitable for beginners. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of the cold water temperatures, which range from 16C to 20C. Entry is via the shore, though caution is required due to potential rip currents, large swells, and king waves. Slippery black algae on coastal rocks can also pose a hazard during entry and exit. The site is unpatrolled, and parking and toilets are available for visitor use.
-33.93850, 122.57000
Check the surf conditions before you commit to entering, as breaking waves can make the shore entry tricky even on otherwise pleasant days. Parking and toilets are available on site, so no need to rush your pre-dive setup.
The site is approximately 92 km (just over an hour's drive) east of Esperance via the sealed Fisheries Road and Orleans Bay Road. The snorkeling area is accessible from the shore, particularly around the headland near Little Wharton Beach. Parking is available at the Duke of Orleans Bay Caravan Park.
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Depth
0m
Visibility
0m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
16-20°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec
Yes, the bay is sheltered and calm, making it suitable for beginners.
Yes, the site is suitable for both diving and snorkelling.
Hazards include cold water, rip currents, sharks, sharp coral, surf, large swells, and king waves. Additionally, slippery black algae on rocks can make shore entry and exit difficult.
This is a shore dive with entry points accessible from the beach.
Diving at Duke of Orleans Bay in South West requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Duke of Orleans Bay in South West. Water temperatures range from 16°C to 20°C.
The best months to visit Duke of Orleans Bay in South West are January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Duke of Orleans Bay in South West is excellent for snorkelling with a rating of 3 out of 5. Shallow areas start from 0 metres, making it accessible for snorkellers.
Duke of Orleans Bay in South West typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.