Western Australia dive sites

Yes. All divers must obtain a dive permit from the Busselton Jetty Environment and Conservation Association before entering the water. Permits can be arranged through authorised local dive operators who run guided dives along the jetty. Independent shore diving is restricted, and most dives are conducted as guided groups departing from the jetty itself or from the adjacent beach.

Geographe Bay is a sheltered, shallow bay with a sandy bottom that stirs easily. Visibility typically ranges between 3 and 8 metres, occasionally reaching 10 metres on calm days. While this sounds low, the dive is conducted at shallow depths close to the pylons, and the restricted visibility actually concentrates the experience, making every pylon a surprise discovery. Torches are essential for illuminating the vivid colours of the sponges and corals.

Busselton Jetty is ideal for beginners. The maximum depth is only 10 metres, currents are negligible within the bay, and entry is straightforward from the beach or the jetty steps. Several operators offer introductory dive experiences for uncertified guests. The shallow depth also means extended bottom times, giving new divers ample opportunity to practise buoyancy while surrounded by fascinating marine life.

Coral Bay is located at Ningaloo's southern end, approximately 150 kilometres south of Exmouth. The reef comes closest to shore here — in some places just metres from the beach — making shore access diving exceptional. Coral Bay offers a more relaxed, less developed atmosphere compared to Exmouth, with the reef immediately accessible. However, Exmouth provides access to the northern Ningaloo sites, the Navy Pier, and Muiron Islands. Many divers visit both to experience the full reef system.

Yes, whale shark tours operate from Coral Bay between March and July, coinciding with the annual coral spawning and plankton blooms that attract these animals to Ningaloo. Multiple licensed operators offer swim-with-whale-shark experiences via spotter plane and boat. While this is a snorkelling rather than diving activity, it complements the diving perfectly and is a highlight of visiting Coral Bay during the appropriate season.