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Merries Reef

Merries Reef is a cracking Sydney dive, and one we always recommend for a solid shore dive when conditions are right. You gear up right on the rocks, then it's a short, easy swim out to the main reef structure. What we love about Merries is the sheer density of invertebrate life packed into its ledges and overhangs. Keep your eyes peeled for those iridescent European fan-worms swaying in the gentle surge, their feathery crowns filtering plankton. We've often found small octopus tucked into crevices, their eyes watching you intently. The reef itself isn't a dramatic drop-off, more of a series of rocky platforms and gutters. This makes it perfect for a relaxed dive, poking around without feeling rushed. We've seen some impressive stingarees here, hunkered down in the sand patches, and the resident cowfish often put on a show of their clumsy elegance. The best time to dive Merries is on an incoming tide with minimal swell; the visibility really cleans up then, letting you appreciate the delicate colours of the soft corals. It’s a fantastic spot for macro photography, or just a quiet afternoon exploring.