Dive Site: Green Island South

Dive site facts: Green Island South

Depth

14–20 m

Typical dive

14–16 m

Current

Moderate

Visibility

5–20 m

Water temperature

20°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Open Water

Dive type

Macro, reef, temperate

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

South West Rocks, New South Wales

Coordinates

-30.89, 153.07

Conditions & Currents

Conditions at Green Island can range from moderate swell to light breezes, heavily influenced by the East Australian Current. This current brings rich nutrients and marine life but can also introduce varying current strengths, especially in exposed areas. Divers should be aware of tidal movements, as they can directly impact current intensity and local visibility. The northern side of Green Island often provides a more sheltered environment, which is advantageous during rough offshore conditions, though surface chop can still affect comfort and visibility. Boat entry is standard, and managing buoyancy is key, especially when currents are present. Water temperatures can be cool, often around 20°C, necessitating appropriate thermal protection.

Marine life & sighting chances

Grey Nurse Shark

Winter and Spring · common

Spotted Eagle Ray

occasional

Wobbegong Shark

occasional

Turtle

occasional

Goatfish

common

Mantis Shrimp

rare

Humpback Whale

May–November · occasional

Blue Groper

common

Remora fish

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving at Green Island typically starts with a boat entry after a 30-minute journey from the Macleay River. Divers descend to an average depth of 14-16 meters, reaching a maximum of 20 meters, making it ideal for Open Water divers. The dive usually follows the sand edge along the reef, heading east from the mooring on the north-west corner. Grey nurse sharks are often found congregating in the area between the mooring and the north corner, and further south. As you round the corner, the reef becomes more shear with narrow gutters and overhangs, offering exploration opportunities. Divers zig-zag to explore these features, observing macro life and schooling fish. The dive progresses south along the sand edge until it meets a vertical wall, which often serves as a natural turning point. Safety stops are conducted during ascent.

Underwater photography

Green Island offers excellent opportunities for wide-angle photography, especially during winter and spring when grey nurse sharks are abundant. A fisheye or wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing their presence, particularly in the deeper, clearer areas where they congregate. For macro enthusiasts, the diverse reef life and small creatures require a macro lens, with careful attention to buoyancy to avoid disturbing delicate subjects. When photographing sharks, maintain a respectful distance and avoid sudden movements. Given varying visibility, strobes are highly recommended to bring out natural colors and improve contrast, especially in ambient light conditions.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Fish Rock

  Main dive attraction, known for Fish Rock Cave

• Magic Point

  Known for Grey Nurse Sharks

Getting there & logistics

Access to Green Island is primarily via boat, with dive operations typically departing from South West Rocks, New South Wales. Journeys to the site, such as from the Macleay River, can take around 30 minutes. Divers are advised to confirm trip lengths with operators, as Green Island is often combined with other local sites like the famous Fish Rock Cave. No specific park fees are mentioned for Green Island itself, but divers should inquire with their chosen operator about any applicable costs. Given the cooler water temperatures outside the warmer months, packing a 7mm wetsuit is frequently recommended to ensure comfort during dives.

Safety & environment

For recompression chamber access, divers in this region would typically rely on facilities in larger regional centers, with evacuation often involving road transport or air ambulance in severe cases. Comprehensive dive insurance, covering medical emergencies and evacuation, is highly recommended. Site-specific hazards include potential moderate currents, especially in exposed areas, requiring careful dive planning and awareness of tidal movements. Divers should maintain appropriate thermal protection given the cooler water temperatures, which can drop to 20°C or lower. Adherence to dive guide instructions and buddy system protocols is crucial for safe diving at Green Island.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Green Island South FAQ

Liveaboards diving Green Island South

These liveaboards may visit Green Island South on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Spoilsport

Australia

28 guests30 m

Odyssey Liveaboard

Australia

20 guests24 m