reef

Log This Dive

Chowder Bay

Chowder Bay is one of those Sydney sites we keep coming back to, especially if we’re after a relaxed shore dive with real potential for interesting finds. It's not a deep dive, maybe 12-15 metres maximum, and typically we’re exploring the shallower edges, poking around under jetties and along the rocky wall. You'll spend most of your time scanning the sand and the pier pylons for macro life – we’ve found some fantastic nudibranchs here, along with small crabs and pipefish camouflaged against the encrusting growth. Our favourite time to dive Chowder Bay is on a high tide, which helps with entry and can often bring in a bit more visibility. The visibility can swing a lot, from a murky 3 metres to a decent 10, so check local reports if you can. It’s also a site where we often see those signature Sydney species like the Crested Weedfish, perfectly still, pretending to be a bit of algae, or a curious Smallspine Turretfish bumbling past. It suits divers who enjoy a slow, observant dive, who aren't chasing big pelagics but appreciate the smaller, often overlooked creatures that thrive in these sheltered harbours. If you’re willing to take your time and look closely, Chowder Bay often rewards you.