DivePlnr
    Nicholas Reef dive site
    reef
    Great Barrier Reef, Australia
    Michaelmas and Upolu Cays

    Nicholas Reef

    Best months: Feb–Mar

    Protected Area

    Michaelmas and Upolu Cays

    Why dive here

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

    Nicholas Reef, a classic Great Barrier Reef site, offers pleasant coral bommies and fringing reef. You’ll spot the usual suspects here: anemonefish darting in their homes, parrotfish grazing, and often a few reef sharks patrolling the deeper edges. It’s a solid choice for a relaxing dive, particularly good for newer divers or those looking for an easy second or third dip of the day.

    Safety Notes

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

    Today05:5218:1512h 23m daylightGolden hour 17:46

    Nearest Dive Centres to Nicholas Reef

    Dive shops near Nicholas Reef

    Dive Centre

    34km away

    Horseshoe

    37km away
    View all dive centres in Great Barrier Reef

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Nicholas Reef

    Nicholas Reef Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Nicholas 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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