Explore Terrigal

Nestled along New South Wales’ central coast, Terrigal offers a captivating diving experience that is both diverse and accessible. With 27 unique dive sites, this region is renowned for its vibrant marine life and varied underwater landscapes. Terrigal Haven, a prominent shore dive site, serves as a critical nursery for a myriad of marine species, allowing divers to witness the early stages of aquatic life in a protected environment. This makes it an ideal location for both novice and experienced divers seeking to explore the gentle yet bustling underwater world. The adventurous can explore the depths of Skillion Cave, known for providing one of the best shore dives in New South Wales. Its intriguing geological formations and rich biodiversity make every dive an exploration worth undertaking. For those drawn to history and mystery, the HMAS Adelaide awaits. This sunken naval guided-missile frigate, the largest navy ship in Australia, offers an exceptional wreck diving experience. The ship’s structure has become a thriving artificial reef, teeming with marine life, making it a must-visit for wreck enthusiasts. Terrigal is not only about its dive sites but also its seasonal allure. Visiting during different times of the year can offer unique experiences as the waters teem with seasonal marine visitors, ensuring every dive trip presents new and exciting encounters. Whether diving from shore or boat, Terrigal promises a memorable underwater adventure that resonates with the vibrant pulse of marine life.

Dive Sites Show on map

Scubapro, Stephen Frink

Avoca (★3.8)

Avoca is a shore dive. This is a nice dive site when the wind is blowing from the west, as it is a protected area with lots of colors and marine life.

Mares, Janez Kranjc

Adelaide (Wreck) (★4.1)

The Adelaide is a former warship scuttled in April 2011 as an artificial reef. Since its sinking, the wreck has proven its worth by providing homes to numerous fish species and is an ideal research area for local Marine Science students from the nearby university.

Mares

The Slide, Terrigal (★3.5)

The reef slope is made up of small boulders and rocks. Once you hit ~13m, the reef will drop off more sharply to ~18m. It is in this area and along the sand line of the reef that the magnificent sponge gardens can be found.

Mares, Janez Kranjc

Skillion Cave (★3.7)

The Skillion Cave is a fantastic shore dive. . The cave is not really a cave as such but rather a very large crevice in a reef wall that a large boulder has fallen into to form a “cave“. This dive can only be attempted on a calm day which makes it an all to rare treat from shore unfortunately

Aqualung

Terrigal Haven (★3.5)

You can start your dive from either the boat ramp or the second ramp on the Terrigal Dive side of the Haven. The area underneath the moored boats is sand flats and seagrass. The seagrass in the Haven is a much-overlooked habitat with some of the most interesting critters.

Diving in Terrigal

Terrigal, a coastal gem in New South Wales, offers dive enthusiasts an array of exhilarating underwater adventures. Prominent among its dive sites is the HMAS Adelaide, a notable wreck dive that serves as an artificial reef teeming with marine life. This sunken naval ship provides an immersive experience for divers seeking to explore history beneath the waves.

Beyond wreck dives, Terrigal is renowned for its popular shore dives. The Haven, with its easy access and abundant sea creatures, is perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. Night dives here reveal a magical world as nocturnal marine life comes alive. The balance between shore dives and liveaboard options ensures that divers can enjoy both quick excursions and extended journeys. Terrigal's unique underwater experiences and diverse offerings make it a must-visit destination for diving enthusiasts.

The best Months to dive in Terrigal

Terrigal offers favorable diving conditions throughout the year, with water temperatures ranging from 18°C–23°C/64°F–73°F. Summer months, from December to February, typically feature the warmest waters, making this a popular time for divers. Visibility in Terrigal can reach up to 15 meters/49 feet, though it may vary depending on weather conditions and sea currents.

Diving is possible year-round, although autumn and winter months, from March to August, might experience stronger winds and cooler temperatures, which can affect visibility and surface conditions. Regardless, with suitable weather and ocean conditions, divers can enjoy the rich marine life and underwater landscapes Terrigal has to offer.