Great Barrier Reef, Australia

    Herald's Surprise

    Best months: Feb–Mar

    Why dive here

    With 154+ marine species recorded in the area - including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, tiger sharks and napoleon wrasse - Herald's Surprise offers some of Great Barrier Reef's richest reef diving. Water ranges 24-30°C, warmest January, February, March.

    Best timeFeb–Mar
    WetsuitNo wetsuit needed, or a rash guard
    Marine lifeHammerhead Sharks, Sea Turtles, Tiger Sharks and Napoleon Wrasse · 154+ species recorded
    Water24-30°C · warmest January, February, March
    CharacterReef dive
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    Herald's Surprise sits within the Great Barrier Reef, offering a straightforward coral reef dive. You'll find a good spread of corals here, providing homes for the usual reef fish. It’s a solid pick if you’re looking for a relaxed dive with consistent reef scenery, good for less experienced divers or those who just want to unwind.

    Safety Notes

    Strong currents typical this month (avg 30 cm/s). Good buoyancy control essential.

    Today05:4218:0612h 24m daylightGolden hour 17:37

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Herald's Surprise

    Herald's Surprise Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Herald's Surprise, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-15.65, 145.72) (5km away)

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    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    26°C

    80°F · Range: 24.5–29°C

    Current Speed

    30.07 cm/s

    Direction: S (183.8°)

    Chlorophyll-a

    0.057 mg/m³

    Very clear (oligotrophic)

    Salinity

    35.08 PSU

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)

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