Located in the Coffs Harbor area, where the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef meet the cooler southern waters below Sydney, The Solitary Islands Marine Park features a striking mix of tropical and sub-tropical fish and other spectacular sea life that dwells in a group of sheltered island havens. The area contains over 25 different dive sites, clustered around these ancient islands. While each site has its own unique offerings, the marine park area as a whole is noted for being home to large numbers of grey nurse sharks and humpback whales. Depending upon the time of year you visit, you may see larger fish or more tropical varieties. Take a look at what the different islands have to offer:
South Solitary Island
Renowned for its unusually clean, blue water, this island is nicknamed ‘The Light’. It’s home to 9 great dive sites and is an area abundant with grey nurse sharks, lion fish, nudibranchs, blue groper, morays, turtles, black cod, and giant cuttlefish.
South Solitary Island’s most notable dive sites include: Grey Nurse Gutters, Manta Arch, Boulder Wall, Buchanan’s Wall, and Cable Trail.
Split Solitary Island
This island offers an additional 9 scuba diving and snorkeling sites. Because its visibility is not as pristine as that of South Solitary Island, it’s often used as a backup dive site for the area. However, its glorious gardens of soft and hard coral, and its abundant black cod, cuttlefish, turtles, and tropical and sub-tropical sea life make it worth a stop.
Split Solitary Island’s most notable dive sites include: Shrimp Mooring, Cowry Mooring, Moray Mooring, Cod Rock, Coral Corner, and Turtle Cave.
South West Solitary Island
Often referred to as Grouper Island, this area is notable for its profusion of plate coral and its varied fish sightings. Shallower areas, ranging to depths of 10-15 meters, are great for snorkeling and long diving. On its northwest side is a sheltered bay filled with plate coral in 10-15 meters of water. At the southern end, you’ll find gutters to explore in shallow waters. In the southwest, you’ll find additional gutters and bommies with lots of excellent coral growth.
South West Solitary Island’s most notable dive sites include Coral Garden and Long Reef.
North Solitary Island
Often referred to as the “big” island, this dive area contains sites that feature abundant marine life, including clownfish and anemones.
North Solitary Island’s most notable dive sites include Anemone Bay and Fish Soup.
Pimpernel Rock
An isolated rocky peak, Pimpernel Rock is found at the northern end of the marine park. An undersea mountain with a base depth of about 40 meters, the pinnacle rises up to within 12 meters of the surface. You’ll find an enormous swim-through cave that cuts through the peak, and a large variety of fish have settled there. Because of its depth and strong currents, the area is classified as an advanced dive site.
North West Solitary Island
One of the islands closest to the coast, this dive site area has cooler waters. Visibility is generally lower here than in some areas. However, the site is worth a visit, as manta rays are commonly spotted here in summer months, and grey nurse sharks swim in its winter waters.
If you’re looking for dive sites that offer abundant marine life, varied underwater topography, and year-round diving enjoyment, make a visit to the lovely Solitary Islands Marine Park.