DivePlnr
    Howie Reef dive site
    reef
    Great Barrier Reef, Australia
    Barnard Island Group

    Howie Reef

    Best months: Feb–Mar

    Protected Area

    Barnard Island Group

    Why dive here

    With 154+ marine species recorded in the area - including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, tiger sharks and napoleon wrasse - Howie Reef 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

    Howie Reef offers solid Great Barrier Reef diving without the crowds. We’ve found decent hard coral formations here, good for spotting the usual reef suspects: parrotfish, wrasse, and sometimes a few reef sharks patrolling the drop-off. Visibility is generally good, making it a reliable choice for less experienced divers looking for a relaxed GBR day trip.

    Safety Notes

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

    Today05:5018:1412h 24m daylightGolden hour 17:45

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Howie Reef

    Howie Reef Ocean Conditions

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

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    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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