Entrance Bommies - Coral Sea

Kalli’s Reef feels like a secret, even though it’s just a short boat ride to Klein Bonaire. We love dropping in here, watching the sand ripple under the boat before the reef wall comes into view. The coral formations aren't the biggest you'll ever see, but they're healthy and vibrant, especially the big heads of blushing star and lettuce coral. We often spot schools of round scad and jacks cruising past the wall, and the doctorfish and hogfish are almost always milling about. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff too, like the yellowline gobies peeking from their holes or a shy pearl blenny. The average depth here is around 12-15m, making it a perfectly relaxed second dive. We’d suggest going early in the morning before any wind picks up, when the light really makes the blues pop.

Location
Coral Sea, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-23.892900, 152.406900
Type
reef

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 Entrance Bommies

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 Entrance Bommies

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Entrance Bommies?
The Entrance Bommies dive site offers a maximum depth of 16m. While the general area is noted at 18m, divers typically explore within the 16m limit, making it accessible for intermediate divers.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Entrance Bommies?
At Entrance Bommies, divers will be captivated by a vast array of large bommies adorned with stunning plate corals and beautiful foliose coral, also known as lettuce leaf coral. These bommies are overflowing with thriving baitfish, which in turn attract impressive large pelagic species, offering an exciting glimpse into the local marine life.
How challenging is the Entrance Bommies dive site for different experience levels?
The Entrance Bommies dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for divers with some experience. Its features, such as the large bommies and potential for pelagic encounters, provide an engaging experience for those comfortable with moderate conditions.
When is the best time of year to dive Entrance Bommies for optimal conditions or specific marine encounters?
Based on the provided data, specific information regarding the best time of year to dive Entrance Bommies for optimal conditions or specific marine encounters is not available. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the Coral Sea, please consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Entrance Bommies?
The Entrance Bommies dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. While specific certification requirements are not provided, divers should possess the necessary experience and training commensurate with an intermediate rating to safely enjoy this site, which features a maximum depth of 16m.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at Entrance Bommies?
Divers at Entrance Bommies can expect an average visibility of 12m, offering clear views of the stunning plate corals and diverse marine life. Information regarding typical current conditions at this specific site is not available in the provided data.