reef

Log This Dive

Mandy’s Eel Garden

Mandy’s Eel Garden, just off West Bay Beach, often gets overshadowed by its deeper neighbours, but we think that’s a mistake. It’s got a lovely, gentle wall that starts shallow, around 5-6 metres, and slopes gradually down to its maximum of 17 metres. We love it for its quiet charm, especially if you get there before the afternoon boat rush. The real draw here, as the name suggests, are the garden eels swaying in the sand patches, but keep your eyes peeled for other bottom dwellers. We’ve had great luck spotting Saddle Stargazers peeking out, and on one dive, we watched a Banded Jawfish diligently tending its eggs in its burrow. The reef itself is healthy, full of crevices hiding Apricot and Peppermint Bass, and we always spot a few Snapper cruising by. Visibility averages 20 metres, so you’ve got plenty of time to really look close. This site is perfect for photographers who like to take their time and anyone who appreciates the smaller, often overlooked creatures of the reef.