Dive Site: Lord Howe Island - Erscotts Hole

About Lord Howe Island - Erscotts Hole

Erscott's Hole is a celebrated dive and snorkel site located within the protective lagoon of Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique blend of tropical, subtropical, and temperate marine species. This remarkable location boasts one of the world's southernmost true coral reef systems, making it a vibrant tapestry of over 90 coral species and more than 500 fish species. The shallow, protected nature of the lagoon means Erscott's Hole provides a calm and accessible underwater experience. Divers navigate through extensive staghorn coral gardens, encountering diverse hard and soft corals that thrive in the incredibly healthy reef system. The site's topography, formed as an intertidal groyne, contributes to its sheltered conditions and rich ecosystem. Marine life encounters are frequent and varied, with common sightings including the vibrant Bluefish, known for its rapid color changes, and the distinctive Double Header Wrasse. The site also hosts a range of interesting and rare species, providing a captivating experience for underwater photographers and marine enthusiasts alike. Its consistent visibility and moderate depth make it an ideal location for extended exploration. Easily reachable by a short boat ride from shore or even by wading in from a tiny beach, Erscott's Hole is a highly accessible site. Two local dive outfitters regularly include this iconic spot in their agendas, providing guided trips and equipment. Glass-bottom boat tours also operate here, contributing to the unusually tame and friendly behavior of the local fish populations, enhancing the interaction for all visitors.

Dive site facts: Lord Howe Island - Erscotts Hole

Depth

7–8 m

Typical dive

7–8 m, 50–60 min

Current

Mild to none

Visibility

10 m

Water temperature

18–26°C

Entry

Boat / Shore

Level

Beginner to Advanced

Dive type

Reef, photography, macro

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Lord Howe Island, Australia

Coordinates

-31.53, 159.045

Conditions & Currents

Erscott's Hole is situated within Lord Howe Island's sheltered lagoon, meaning currents are generally very mild, making it an excellent site for less experienced divers or those focusing on photography. The protection offered by the lagoon ensures calm surface conditions, allowing for easy entry and exit, often directly from a small boat or by wading in from the beach. Visibility within the lagoon typically averages around 10 meters, though conditions can vary. While the East Australian Current influences the broader Lord Howe waters, its impact is significantly diminished within the confines of Erscott's Hole, providing a serene diving environment. Thermoclines are generally not a concern at this shallow site. Divers can expect a relaxed experience, requiring minimal effort against currents.

Marine life & sighting chances

Bluefish

common

Double Header Wrasse

common

Spangled Emperor

common

Neon Damsel

common

Colemans Pygmy Seahorse

occasional

Fosters Hawkfish

occasional

Marlin Spike Auger Shell

occasional

Spotted Snake Eel

occasional

Beaked Leatherjacket

occasional

Staghorn coral

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

A typical dive at Erscott's Hole begins with a short boat ride into the lagoon. Divers can expect to enter the water directly from the boat into shallow, calm conditions. The dive profile generally involves a leisurely exploration of the extensive coral gardens, predominantly staghorn corals, at a maximum depth of 7-8 meters. There is no specific route or turn point due to the mild currents and confined nature of the hole; divers can navigate freely, focusing on observing the abundant fish life and macro subjects. The shallow depth allows for extended bottom times, making it ideal for relaxed photography. Safety stops are easily conducted anywhere within the lagoon due to the minimal depth and calm environment, often integrating into the final minutes of the dive before surfacing.

Underwater photography

Erscott's Hole is a haven for underwater photographers, particularly those interested in wide-angle and macro shots. The shallow depths of 7-8 meters and consistently good visibility (around 10 meters) make it an ideal environment for natural light photography, though a strobe will enhance colors and detail. A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the extensive staghorn coral gardens and schooling fish, while a macro lens will be invaluable for the rare pygmy seahorses, hawkfish, and other fascinating critters hidden within the reef. Fish are notably tame due to interaction with glass-bottom boats, allowing for close-up opportunities. Excellent buoyancy control is paramount to avoid disturbing the fragile coral structures and stirring up sediment.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Lord Howe Island - Ball's Pyramid

  Advanced offshore pinnacle dive for pelagic encounters.

• Julian Rocks

  Marine park teeming with diverse species and seasonal pelagics.

• Cod Hole

  Famous for large schools of fish and wobbegongs.

Getting there & logistics

Reaching Lord Howe Island typically involves a short flight from Sydney, Brisbane, or Port Macquarie, with local airlines offering regular connections. The island's airport is conveniently located just minutes from dive operators and resorts. Dive trips to Erscott's Hole are usually arranged through the island's single family-run dive operator, who provides guided dives and equipment rental. Weight restrictions apply to flights to Lord Howe, with a typical allowance of 23 kg (1 x 14kg & 1 x 9 kg bags). Permits are included as part of organized dive tours, operating within the strict visitor cap of 400 people on the island at any one time, ensuring a less crowded experience. Diving packages are available, offering excellent value.

Safety & environment

Lord Howe Island is a remote destination, and while dive operators are highly experienced, divers should always carry comprehensive dive insurance that covers emergency evacuation and recompression chamber treatment. The nearest recompression chamber would necessitate an air evacuation to mainland Australia. Offshore conditions can change rapidly, although Erscott's Hole itself is sheltered. Divers should adhere to all instructions from the dive guide, maintain excellent buoyancy control to protect the fragile coral, and avoid touching marine life. The island's community places a strong emphasis on conservation, and divers are expected to respect the pristine marine park environment. Medical support on the island is limited, underscoring the importance of preventative safety measures.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Lord Howe Island - Erscotts Hole FAQ

Liveaboards diving Lord Howe Island - Erscotts Hole

These liveaboards may visit Lord Howe Island - Erscotts Hole on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Spoilsport

Australia

28 guests30 m

$406/day

Odyssey Liveaboard

Australia

20 guests24 m

$392/day