The Cheynes III is a decommissioned vessel sitting in depths of 10 to 30 metres off Western Australia, now thoroughly colonised by sponges and corals that have transformed its hull into a functioning artificial reef. Visibility can reach 30 metres in good conditions, though currents are variable so it pays to check before descending. Blue groper patrol the structure with little concern for divers, and sea dragons appear around the shallower sections if you look carefully. Seals occasionally visit and make for an unpredictable but rewarding encounter. Standard wreck protocols apply here: treat entanglement risks seriously and treat any penetration as an overhead environment requiring proper preparation.

Herold Reef is a boat-access reef dive off Western Australia, sitting at depths of 4 to 16 metres with visibility typically running 10 to 15 metres. The mild current keeps conditions manageable for intermediate divers, though surge and surf at the surface require a confident entry and exit. WA Dhufish and Queen Snapper are the standout residents here, both species being particularly prized sightings in these waters. Western Blue Groper add size and character to the reef, moving unhurriedly between structures, while a solid mix of reef fish fills out the water column. The site dives well year-round.

Emu Point is a gentle shore entry reef suited to new snorkellers and divers building confidence in the water. The reef sits in easy shallow waters between 2 and 6 metres, making it forgiving for beginners who want to take their time. Visibility here is variable, so conditions can change day to day, and mild currents are typical, though stronger flows can occur. Keep an eye out for stingrays resting on sandy patches between the reef, as well as bream and whiting moving through the shallower areas. Watch for boat traffic when entering and exiting the water.

Willy's Lump is a reef dive in Western Australia that suits beginners thanks to its mild current and accessible depths ranging from 2 to 18 metres. Visibility here is variable, so conditions can shift, but that unpredictability is part of what keeps the site interesting. Keep your eyes on the reef structure and you stand a good chance of spotting wobbegong resting on the bottom, Western blue devil fish, and cuttlefish moving through the shallower sections. Samson fish, grouper, and a range of demersal and nearshore species round out the resident life. Watch where you place your hands and fins, as sharp coral, sea urchins, and jellyfish are present.

The Fingers is a wall and drop-off site that earns its advanced rating through a combination of surge, depth, and moderate to strong current. The reef structure drops to 30 metres, with the shallower sections sitting around 9 metres where surge can be felt along the wall. Visibility runs 10 to 20 metres, giving you solid sightlines into the blue where pelagic fish and wahoo patrol the deeper water. Breaksea cod and WA blue grouper hold close to the structure, while pink snapper and queen snapper work the mid-water column. Plan your bottom time carefully at depth.

Mistaken Island is a boat-access reef site off Western Australia that suits beginners well, with shallow areas starting at the surface and reaching down to 22 metres in the deeper sections. Visibility can vary considerably, so conditions are worth checking before you go. Currents are also variable, which means picking a calmer day makes for a more relaxed experience. The reef supports a good mix of smaller, hard-to-spot species, including pipefish, blennies, and the curious northern clingfish, alongside scorpionfish tucked into the structure and wrasse moving through open water. Leatherjackets, big eyes, and silver drummers round out what you can expect to find here.

HMAS Perth II is a decommissioned warship sitting on the seabed off Western Australia, resting at depths from 5 to 38 metres. The wreck is substantial enough to reward multiple dives, with visibility ranging from 10 to 25 metres giving you good sightlines along the hull. Resident marine life includes blue groper, blue devils, pink snapper, queen snapper, samson fish and break sea cod, while wobbegong sharks and other sharks are regular visitors. Nudibranch and tasmanian blenny add smaller-scale interest for those who take their time. Current is generally mild, but the deeper sections push into decompression diving territory, so solid buoyancy control and dive planning are essential before heading down.

Whaling Cove Beach is a shore entry reef dive suited to beginners, with easy shallow waters reaching 2 to 10 metres deep. Visibility here is variable, so conditions can change between visits, but even on murkier days the reef offers plenty to explore at close range. Keep an eye out for Australian Giant Cuttlefish moving along the bottom, Old Wife and Wrasse weaving through the reef structure, and the striking Western Blue Devil. Leatherjackets and Leatherjackets are common, and the reef is well colonised by sponge and algae. Currents are mild, making this a comfortable first reef dive. Be aware that sharks are present in the area.