The Recherche Archipelago is a collection of islands and reefs off the south coast of Western Australia, offering beginner-friendly diving from shore or boat. Depths reach 18 metres at most, making it manageable while you get comfortable underwater. Visibility varies depending on conditions and season, so it pays to check locally before you go. The reefs are home to harlequin fish, blue devils, wrasse, and gropers, while sponges and soft corals add colour to the walls and cavern areas. Australian sea lions occasionally appear, and Leafy Sea Dragons can be found with a patient eye. Currents are variable, so pick a calm day.

Woody Island's marked snorkel trail offers one of Western Australia's most accessible underwater experiences, perfect if you're new to snorkelling. You can enter directly from shore or take a short boat ride to the trail markers, which guide you through shallow, calm waters over reef sections teeming with life. The mild current makes it easy to navigate while you search for the trail's star attraction: the elusive leafy seadragon, a rare find that camouflages perfectly among the soft corals and sponges. You'll also spot playful fur seals and sea lions that often approach snorkellers, while dolphins occasionally cruise past the outer reef. The reef itself supports colourful residents including red starfish clinging to rocks, friendly gropers, red snappers darting between formations, and vibrant harlequin fish. Visibility varies with conditions, so check locally before heading out. The water stays cold year round, so hire a wetsuit from the on-site facilities if you don't have your own. Watch for sharp coral sections along the trail. With toilets, a cafe, and guided tours available, Woody Island provides everything you need for a comfortable first snorkelling adventure, accessible eight months of the year from October through May.

West Beach is a shore entry reef site suited to beginner divers and snorkellers. The water is shallow and calm in character, though a moderate current runs through the site and rip currents, surge, and sharp coral are genuine hazards to keep in mind before you enter. Visibility varies, so conditions are worth checking on the day. Underwater, the reef supports coral growth alongside a mix of fish species including salmon, herring, trout, and gummy sharks. Red starfish are a reliable and visually striking find along the bottom. March and April tend to offer the most settled conditions for a visit.

Tanker Jetty is a shore dive built around the structure of an old jetty, which acts as an artificial reef attracting a surprisingly diverse mix of marine life. The site runs from very shallow water down to 12 metres, with visibility typically between 10 and 15 metres, making it easy to see what is around you. Currents are mild, so you can take your time exploring the pylons and sandy bottom. Keep your eyes moving slowly, as leafy sea dragons and weedy sea dragons both appear here, along with cuttlefish, squid, nudibranchs, and flathead resting on the sand. Seals also visit the site, so stay calm and give them space if you encounter one.

Twilight Beach is a gentle shore entry reef site suited to those new to diving or snorkelling. The shallow, calm waters make it a comfortable place to build confidence underwater, though visibility can vary depending on conditions, so it pays to check before you go. Mild currents are typical, but be aware that rip currents can develop, so take a moment to read the water before entering. Underwater you can expect to see herring, salmon, trout, and schools of fish moving through the reef, along with red starfish and the occasional gummy shark.

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.

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.