North Stradbroke Island
Just off the coast of Brisbane, North Stradbroke Island, or "Straddie," is a world-class diving destination renowned for its incredible pelagic encounters. Its flagship dive site, Manta Bommie, is a globally significant aggregation site for manta rays and leopard sharks during the summer months. The island's rocky reefs and bommies are situated where tropical and temperate waters converge, creating a unique ecosystem that supports a staggering diversity of life, from vibrant corals and macro critters to large sharks and rays.
Diving conditions are excellent year-round, with warm, clear water in summer and superb visibility in winter. The proximity to a major city makes it exceptionally accessible for a destination of this caliber. Divers should visit North Stradbroke Island for the unforgettable experience of being surrounded by majestic mantas, the thrill of spotting migrating whales, and the chance to explore a dynamic underwater world. It offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxed island charm, suitable for divers of all levels.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in North Stradbroke Island, Australia?
Manta Bommie is the most popular and famous dive site at North Stradbroke Island, Australia. It is a cleaning station that attracts dozens of manta rays and leopard sharks during the summer months. The site's reliability for these incredible big animal encounters makes it a world-renowned destination for divers seeking memorable underwater experiences.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in North Stradbroke Island, Australia?
Besides Manta Bommie, Shag Rock is a well-known site at North Stradbroke Island, Australia, offering beautiful corals, turtles, and wobbegong sharks. A less-frequented but spectacular site is Flat Rock, known for its deeper topography and as a seasonal aggregation site for endangered grey nurse sharks during the winter months. It is best suited for experienced divers due to potential currents.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in North Stradbroke Island, Australia?
Water temperatures at North Stradbroke Island, Australia, vary seasonally. In summer (December-February), temperatures are warm, ranging from 24-27°C (75-81°F). During winter (June-August), the water cools to 19-22°C (66-72°F). Spring and autumn provide comfortable conditions in between these ranges, making diving enjoyable throughout the year with the appropriate exposure protection.
When is the best time to visit North Stradbroke Island, Australia?
The best time to visit North Stradbroke Island, Australia, is from November to April for peak manta ray and leopard shark season. This period offers the warmest water. Alternatively, visit from May to October for the best underwater visibility, migrating humpback whales, and the chance to see grey nurse sharks. Diving is fantastic year-round, so the best time depends on your marine life priorities.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in North Stradbroke Island, Australia?
Underwater visibility when diving at North Stradbroke Island, Australia, is generally very good. It typically averages between 10-20 meters (33-66 feet). During the winter months (May-October), conditions are often clearer, and visibility can exceed 30 meters (100 feet). Visibility can be reduced after heavy rainfall or strong currents, but is usually excellent for spotting the area's famous marine life.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in North Stradbroke Island, Australia?
Yes, North Stradbroke Island, Australia, is a hub for seasonal marine events. Summer (November-April) is famous for large aggregations of manta rays and leopard sharks. Winter (June-October) is the prime season for watching migrating humpback whales from the boat and shore. During this cooler season, grey nurse sharks also gather at specific sites, offering incredible and predictable wildlife encounters for divers.
What marine life can I expect to see in North Stradbroke Island, Australia?
At North Stradbroke Island, Australia, you can expect to see manta rays, leopard sharks, wobbegong sharks, and grey nurse sharks (seasonal). Other common sightings include loggerhead turtles, eagle rays, bull rays, octopuses, cuttlefish, and large schools of fish like trevally. The reefs are also home to diverse macro life, including many species of nudibranchs, shrimp, and crabs.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in North Stradbroke Island, Australia?
For summer diving (December-February) in North Stradbroke Island, Australia, a 3mm wetsuit is generally sufficient with water temperatures at 24-27°C. In winter (June-August), when temperatures drop to 19-22°C, a 5mm full wetsuit is recommended for comfort. Some divers may prefer a 7mm suit or add a hood and gloves for extra warmth, especially for multiple dives.
How do I get to North Stradbroke Island, Australia?
To get to North Stradbroke Island, Australia, fly into Brisbane Airport (BNE). From there, travel to Cleveland, a suburb of Brisbane, by car, train, or bus. From the Toondah Harbour in Cleveland, you can take either a vehicle ferry (approx. 50 mins) or a faster passenger ferry (approx. 25 mins) across to the island. Most dive operators are based near Point Lookout.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in North Stradbroke Island, Australia?
All diving in North Stradbroke Island, Australia, is shore-based, as there are no liveaboards that service this specific destination. You will need to book accommodation on the island and arrange daily dive trips with one of the local dive centers. This allows you to explore the island's beautiful beaches, trails, and townships in between your underwater adventures.