Brisbane in Queensland is one of the sunniest places on mainland Australia and much of life is lived outside. The year round sunshine and warm weather means that the ocean can be enjoyed more frequently than some cooler areas in the southern regions. Once you escape the metropolis, areas like Moreton Bay have palm fringed beaches and cerulean waves teeming with fish, whales and dolphins.
There are a number of dive centres and dive resorts located in the Brisbane area, though many are scattered around the city so it is a good idea to look up where you wish to dive before you arrive. Due to the generally calm seas and shallow sites, it is a popular location for diving courses. Though there are no liveaboards based in Brisbane, there are several found on the nearby Great Barrier Reef.
Some of the diving highlights are the abundant wrecks in the area, the most famous of which is the exHMAS Brisbane which was scuttled in order to create a fantastic dive site. The reefs here are tropical with hundreds of species of marine animals. With some sites offering great macro and some featuring giant pelagics, there will be something to please everyone.
Diving in Brisbane is accessible and popular all year round though it is subject to seasonal changes. The summer months, between November and February are the hottest, with daytime temperatures soaring to a 29oC average and water temperatures sitting around 28oC. As a result, this tends to be the time of highest tourism and diving centres are busier. This is the best time to see certain animals, such as manta rays and leopard sharks as they follow the warm water.
The winter months are from May to October. Brisbane enjoys a stable climate, with daytime temperatures rarely dipping below 21oC. Water temperatures drop to 22oC which, while certainly necessitating a wetsuit, is still pleasant. The winter months are quieter as tourism dips, but Brisbane diving is still excellent. From May to November, you can also see humpback whales migrating up the coast and you may be lucky enough to hear their song as you dive!
Ranging from 3–28m, this vibrant coral reef suits all scuba levels. Turtles, wobbegongs, and mantas frequent the site, with swim-throughs, caves, and coral-covered pinnacles. Humpback whales can be spotted in winter. Located within a protected marine zone.
One of Australia’s best manta sites, this 5–16m bommie attracts leopard, shovel-nose, guitar and bamboo sharks, bull rays, turtles, and octopus—especially in summer. Suitable for all levels and a favorite for photographers and freedivers alike.
Scuttled in 2005, this 133m-long warship lies at 27m and is fully penetrable through purpose-cut access points. Ideal for advanced and wreck-certified scuba divers, the site teems with barracuda, lionfish, and soft corals. A thrilling artificial reef experience.
Over 30 sunken vessels create a vast dive playground for intermediate to advanced scuba divers. Spot giant gropers, stingrays, wobbegongs, and barracuda. A dramatic and evolving wreck site that began in 1967 and continues to grow within a conservation area.
Twelve purpose-sunk wrecks sit at 12m in crystal-clear water, ideal for beginners. Drift diving reveals trevally, crayfish, and vibrant reef fish. Easily accessible by boat or kayak, this site is perfect for relaxed scuba or freediving adventures
