Lady Elliot Island

Lady Elliot Island

Mantas and turtles off the southern tip of the Reef.

Open WaterAustralia
Depth
3–25 m
Visibility
15–30 m
Water
21–27 °C
Current
Mild (can surge)
Best time
Year-round
Signature life
Manta rays

The dive

Why dive Lady Elliot Island

The southernmost coral cay of the Great Barrier Reef: shore dives straight off the beach, manta rays and turtles, and clear water that suits new divers.

Marine life

Manta raysGreen turtlesLoggerhead turtlesLeopard sharksReef fish

Dive profile

MantaTurtleShore

When to go

Best time: Year-round (mantas peak May–Aug)

Manta rays are seen year-round and are most numerous in the cooler months; summer brings turtle nesting on the island.

Readiness

Who it suits

Open Water-level site — suits Open Water divers and up. Typical requirements:

Open Water

Not sure you're ready? Read our readiness guide or check yourself in the planner.

Logistics

Getting there & staying

Getting thereLight-aircraft flight to the island. Light-aircraft flights to the island's airstrip from Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Brisbane or the Gold Coast; there is no ferry.
Where to stayIsland eco-resort. The island's eco resort is the only accommodation; fly-in day trips also run.
Operator to look forThe island's resort dive shop runs shore and boat dives around the cay.

Sources

Further reading

Links checked 29 September 2026. They cover the site's location, protection status and background. Costs, difficulty and season windows are ScubaRogue's editorial estimates, so confirm them with your operator before you book. How we research

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