Wharton Beach is a shore entry reef dive with a real mix of southern Australian marine life that rewards patient, slow exploration. Depths run from the shallows down to 18 metres, making this manageable for beginners comfortable with gentle currents. Visibility varies considerably depending on conditions, so timing your visit matters. The reef shelters some genuinely special encounters, including weedy and leafy seadragons, Australian giant cuttlefish, blue devil fish, and southern eagle rays. Port Jackson sharks are also regularly spotted resting on the bottom. Sponges and assorted wrasse round out what you can expect to find across the reef.

Duke of Orleans Bay is a shore-accessible reef site in Western Australia, well-suited to beginner snorkellers and divers comfortable with calm, shallow conditions. The water is generally mild with light currents, though visibility can vary day to day. Underwater, you can expect to encounter small tropical fish, blue groper, herring, skippy, and squid. Between September and May the bay also sits within the migration corridor for whales, making sightings a genuine possibility. Be mindful of rip currents and breaking waves near the entry point, and choose a calm day for the best experience.

Wharton Beach is a gentle shore dive suited to those just starting out. You enter directly from the beach and stay shallow, working your way through reef habitat at 1 to 5 metres depth. Visibility runs between 1 to 5 metres and shifts with conditions, so picking a calm, clear day makes a real difference to your experience. Currents are mild, which keeps things manageable while you get comfortable in the water. The reef supports various local species, giving beginners a genuine taste of Western Australian marine life without the pressure of deeper or more demanding conditions.

The Recherche Archipelago is a sprawling network of islands and reefs off the south coast of Western Australia, offering shallow, calm waters that suit first-time divers and snorkellers well. Visibility varies depending on conditions, so checking forecasts before you go is worth doing. The site combines reef, wreck, and cave diving in one area, giving beginners a range of experiences without needing advanced skills. Keep an eye out for leafy seadragons, harlequin fish, blue devils, and wrasse on the reef, while Australian sea lions and fur seals frequently join divers in the water. The cold water here means a good wetsuit is essential.

Lucky Bay is a shore dive offering reef exploration at moderate depths of 12 to 13 metres. The site is home to nudibranchs and Australian Giant Cuttlefish, making it a rewarding spot for divers who take their time searching the reef. Visibility here is variable, so conditions can change considerably between visits. The current runs strong, and surf at entry is a real consideration, so beginners should only dive this site on calmer days and ideally with an experienced buddy. Good facilities on site include parking, toilets, and showers. May and December tend to offer the most reliable conditions.