Great Barrier Reef, Australia
    Barnard Island Group

    Jackson Patches

    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 - Jackson Patches 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

    Jackson Patches offers a classic Great Barrier Reef experience, featuring a collection of bommies rising from a sandy bottom. We've seen plenty of reef sharks cruising the edges and turtles resting on the coral heads here. It’s a solid choice for relaxed diving, suitable for most experience levels looking for a good cross-section of reef inhabitants.

    Safety Notes

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

    Today05:5018:1412h 24m daylightGolden hour 17:46

    Reviews for Jackson Patches

    Sign in to write a review

    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Jackson Patches

    Jackson Patches Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Jackson Patches, 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)

    Plan & book

    Ways to dive Great Barrier Reef, from day trips to liveaboards.

    Day trips & courses

    via GetYourGuide

    Guided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.

    Find dive trips in Great Barrier Reef

    Places to stay

    via Booking.com

    Hotels and dive resorts near Great Barrier Reef.

    Search stays in Great Barrier Reef

    Dive insurance

    Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.

    Dive insurance explained

    Partner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money

    Where to Stay near Jackson Patches

    Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

    Back to Great Barrier Reef