Barolin Point Dive Site - Coral Sea

Barolin Point is a site we’ve always enjoyed, especially as a reliable shore dive. It’s not the Great Barrier Reef’s showiest site, but it’s got a real charm. Drop in and you’re often greeted by schools of silver moonies shimmering in the shallows, a lovely welcome before you even properly descend. We’ve had some cracking encounters here with Grey Sweetlips hovering under ledges, and on a good day, the smaller reef gobies, like the Threadfin, are busy doing their thing if you slow down and look closely. Our favourite way to dive Barolin is definitely as a drift, letting the current do the work. The reef structure itself is interesting, with plenty of nooks and crannies to explore. It’s perfect for a relaxed dive, maybe a bit of macro photography, or just enjoying the simpler pleasures of a healthy reef. Don't expect dramatic drop-offs; think gentle slopes and plenty of hiding spots for the smaller critters. The pigmy sperm whales are a rare treat if you're incredibly lucky, but you'll almost certainly spot the Banded Dotterel or Eastern Reef Egrets foraging along the shore. We’d suggest going at high tide to minimise the walk over the rocks. It’s a great spot for newer divers or those who prefer convenience over a boat trip.

Location
Coral Sea, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-24.883343, 152.489640

Marine Protected Area: Elliott River

Best Time to Dive in Coral Sea

The warmest water temperatures in Coral Sea occur in March, averaging 28.3°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 21.2°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.9°C
  • February: 28.3°C
  • March: 28.3°C
  • April: 27.2°C
  • May: 25.0°C
  • June: 23.0°C
  • July: 21.6°C
  • August: 21.2°C
  • September: 22.3°C
  • October: 24.3°C
  • November: 26.3°C
  • December: 27.7°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Coral Sea

Nearest Dive Centres to Barolin Point Dive Site

Marine Life in Coral Sea

Home to 120 recorded species including 73 reef fish, 30 hard corals, 8 seagrass & algae, 3 other, 2 sharks & rays, 1 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Barolin Point Dive Site

Based on average water temperature of 25.2°C, currents 5 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 25°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories