Lane Cove

Best months: Jul–Nov

Why dive here

With 231+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda, blacktip reef sharks, blue sharks, grey reef sharks and manta rays - Lane Cove offers some of Cocos (Keeling) Islands's richest reef diving. Water ranges 27-29°C, warmest January, February, March.

Best timeJul–Nov

WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit

Marine lifeBarracuda, Blacktip Reef Sharks, Blue Sharks, Grey Reef Sharks and Manta Rays · 231+ species recorded

Water27-29°C · warmest January, February, March

CharacterReef dive

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

Lane Cove often feels like hitting the jackpot on Cocos. We love it for those calm summer days, when the winds drop below 10 knots and the swell lays flat. Drop in, and you’re immediately greeted by a shallow reef top around 10 metres. It’s here you’ll often find schools of fusiliers so thick they block the light, shimmering like a living curtain. Our favourite part is the eastern ridge. It’s a short, dramatic drop-off to 18 metres, then the reef just slopes away into the deep blue. This is where we’ve consistently spotted grey reef sharks cruising by, along with decent-sized tuna and trevally. Look closely and you’ll find impressive stands of fire coral, bright orange and imposing, and we’ve often seen inquisitive common octopus peeking out from their crevices. The visibility here, usually around 30 metres, just adds to the feeling of immense space. It’s a site that rewards those who take their time, exploring both the shallower reef top and the drop-off, perfect for divers who appreciate consistent fish action and a dramatic reef profile.