Best dive sites in Australia
Oceania · Oceania / Coral Sea · 6 dive sites reviewed · best Jun–Nov
Australia is home to the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system, as well as the remote Coral Sea atolls and the fringing Ningaloo Reef on the west coast. Diving ranges from the flagship reef sites out of Cairns to the shark-rich seamounts of Osprey Reef and the iconic SS Yongala wreck. The dive industry is large and professional, with excellent liveaboard and day-boat operations.
Diving in Australia: the essentials
We've ranked 6 dive sites in Australia, averaging 4.0/5 across the set. Our top pick, Agincourt Reef, scores 4.2/5 — Reef diving with 4 standout species — a great fit for most divers..
Conditions are strongest in Jun–Nov.
A realistic travel budget in Australia works out to about $185/day per person — see the cost breakdown below for the full picture.
Local food
Barramundi, meat pies and abundant fresh seafood — often cooked on a barbecue, a genuine national ritual.
Local culture
The vibe is easy-going and beach-first. Tipping is optional rather than expected, and 'no worries' is the working attitude.
Typical travel cost
Average daily cost per person
A one-week trip costs about $1293 per person, based on real traveler spending.
Source: BudgetYourTrip — real traveler expenses, not a fixed rate.
Agincourt Reef
Reef diving with 4 standout species — a great fit for most divers.
Dive sites in this country
6 ranked
Agincourt Reef
Reef diving with 4 standout species — a great fit for most divers.
Lord Howe Island
Wall-and-reef diving with visibility up to 30 m, 4 standout species — a strong choice for experienced divers.
Osprey Reef
Wall-and-reef diving with visibility up to 30 m, 4 standout species, liveaboard access, challenging currents — a strong choice for experienced divers.
Coral Bay
Reef diving with 4 standout species — ideal for newcomers.
Ningaloo Reef
Reef diving with a well-rounded site — a great fit for most divers.
SS Yongala Wreck
Wreck diving with 4 standout species — a strong choice for experienced divers.