Dive Site: South West Rocks - Green Island

Dive site facts: South West Rocks - Green Island

Depth

14–20 m

Typical dive

14–16 m

Current

Moderate

Visibility

5 m (can be better)

Water temperature

20°C

Entry

Boat

Level

Open Water

Dive type

Macro, reef, temperate

Region / port

South West Rocks, New South Wales

Coordinates

-30.89, 153.07

Conditions & Currents

Conditions at Green Island can vary, with moderate swell and light breezes often present. The East Australian Current, a significant force in the region, influences the site, bringing nutrients and marine life but also potential currents. Divers should anticipate a range of current strengths, especially around exposed areas of the island. The northern side of Green Island often provides a more sheltered environment from the elements, which can be advantageous during rough offshore conditions. Surface conditions can impact visibility and overall dive comfort, necessitating a boat entry. Divers should be mindful of tidal movements, as they can affect current intensity and clarity, with some reports indicating green conditions despite an abundance of macro life. A 7mm wetsuit is frequently recommended due to cooler water temperatures, which can drop to 20°C or lower. Stronger currents or su

Marine life & sighting chances

Spotted Eagle Ray

occasional

Wobbegong Shark

occasional

Turtle

occasional

Blue Groper

occasional

Goatfish

common

Mantis Shrimp

rare

Grey Nurse Shark

rare

Humpback Whale

May–November · occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Diving at Green Island typically begins with a boat entry, often deploying from the Macleay River for a 30-minute journey to the site. Upon arrival, divers descend into depths ranging from an average of 14 meters to a maximum of 20 meters, making it comfortable for Open Water certified individuals. The dive usually explores the gently sloping walls and rocky structures that characterize the island's underwater topography. Depending on surface conditions, especially if there's significant swell, the boat might position itself on the more sheltered northern side of the island. Divers follow a route that allows for observation of macro life and schooling fish, keeping an eye out for larger pelagics like spotted eagle rays. The dive progresses around the island, often encountering various gutters and smaller canyons. The turning point is generally determined by air consumption or bottom time, with the ascent initiated back towards the boat's location. Safety stops are conducted at the standard 5 meters for 3 minutes, typically performed while drifting or holding onto a line if conditions require.

Underwater photography

Green Island offers excellent opportunities for macro and wide-angle photography, depending on visibility. For capturing the vibrant macro life, such as various small critters and juvenile fish, a macro lens (like a 60mm or 100mm) paired with a powerful strobe or snoot will yield detailed shots. If visibility is good, a wide-angle lens can be effective for documenting schooling fish and the island's overall reef structure, especially if spotted eagle rays are present. Pay close attention to buoyancy to avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystem and to maintain clear shots in potentially variable visibility. When conditions are 'green,' focus on isolating subjects with strobes and using backscatter reduction techniques. Due to moderate swells and potential currents, ensure your camera setup is secure and manageable in the water.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Green Island South

  A closely related site with similar conditions, deeper average depth.

• Fish Rock Cave

  A famous site known for its 120m cave and Grey Nurse Sharks, requiring advanced certification.

• North Solitary Island

  Part of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, known for diverse marine life.

• South Solitary Island

  Another key dive site within the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Getting there & logistics

Diving Green Island requires travel to South West Rocks, New South Wales, which is approximately a five-hour drive from both Sydney and Brisbane. Divers typically meet at a local dive shop, usually around 7:30 AM, for a double dive, returning between 1:30 PM and 2:00 PM. The dive trips depart by boat from the Macleay River, taking about 30 minutes to reach the dive site. While Green Island can be a standalone dive, it's often combined with other local sites like Fish Rock, offering a varied itinerary for divers staying in the area. No specific park fees for Green Island are mentioned, but dive operators will include boat fees in their pricing. Accommodation options range from private rooms to dedicated divers' lodges in South West Rocks. Given the travel distance from major cities, a multi-day trip is usually recommended to fully experience the local diving.

Safety & environment

Diving at Green Island requires adherence to standard dive safety protocols, and divers should maintain their fitness for diving. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Sydney, necessitating robust emergency action plans in case of a decompression illness incident. Evacuation from Green Island would involve transport by boat back to the mainland, followed by road transport to a medical facility, which can be time-consuming. Dive insurance, covering medical emergencies and evacuation, is highly recommended. Site-specific hazards include potential moderate currents and swells, which can impact comfort and require good buoyancy control. Divers should always dive within their certification limits, preferably with recent dive experience, and communicate any concerns about conditions to their dive guide. A 7mm wetsuit is often advisable due to cooler water temperatures, preventing hypothermia. Always follow the instructions of the dive operator and guide, especially concerning entry and exit procedures from the boat.

Who it suits, and who it doesn't

FAQ

South West Rocks - Green Island FAQ

Liveaboards diving South West Rocks - Green Island

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

Spoilsport

Australia

28 guests30 m

Odyssey Liveaboard

Australia

20 guests24 m