Coffs Harbour & the Solitary Islands · New South Wales
South Solitary Island
The most-dived of the Solitary Islands, with a grey nurse shark gutter and a lighthouse above.
South Solitary Island, with its historic lighthouse, is the most frequently dived of the Solitary Islands and the main destination for Coffs Harbour charters.
Manta Arch and the Boulder Wall are among its best-known features, and a gutter on the island's flank holds grey nurse sharks through the cooler months.
The mix of tropical and temperate species here illustrates the marine park's transitional character particularly clearly.
Max depth
30 m
typically 18 m
Access
boat
Current
variable
Water temp
18–26°C
Level
advanced
| Region | Coffs Harbour & the Solitary Islands |
|---|---|
| State | New South Wales |
| Access | boat |
| Site type | island, reef |
| Minimum depth | 5 m |
| Typical depth | 18 m |
| Maximum depth | 30 m |
| Current | variable |
| Visibility | Commonly 10–25 m |
| Water temperature | Roughly 18–26°C |
| Experience level | intermediate, advanced |
These are guidance categories, not guarantees. Conditions on the day, and an operator’s own requirements, override any classification here.
- grey nurse sharks
- manta rays
- wobbegongs
- turtles
- leopard sharks
- black cod
- schooling fish
Access
- Boat access from Coffs Harbour.
- Around an hour's transit.
- Marine park sanctuary zones apply.
Hazards
- current
- surge around the island
- depth
- swell exposure
What you might see here
Species documented at this site, with seasonality and etiquette on each page.
Operators servicing this site
Businesses documented as regularly diving this site. Only operators we have established a connection for are listed.
Training that is genuinely useful here
Not a list of everything available — the qualifications that actually change what you can do at this site.
Related dive sites
Worth reading alongside this one.
Dive sites nearby
Other documented sites within range, nearest first — useful for building a trip rather than a single dive.
Other dive businesses in the area
Not documented as servicing this site, but close enough to be useful for fills, hire or advice.
Frequently asked questions
How deep is South Solitary Island?
Depths range from around 5 metres to roughly 30 metres, with a typical profile around 18 metres. Conditions and route selection change this considerably.
Is South Solitary Island suitable for beginners?
It is better approached with experience beyond entry level. Better suited to divers with some experience beyond entry level, particularly in the local conditions. Discuss your recent diving honestly with the operator rather than relying on certification alone.
How do you get to South Solitary Island?
Access is boat based. Boat access from Coffs Harbour.
Is there current at South Solitary Island?
Current is recorded as variable. Conditions vary daily and should be checked close to the day.
What will I see at South Solitary Island?
Commonly reported marine life includes grey nurse sharks, manta rays, wobbegongs, turtles, leopard sharks, black cod. Sightings are never guaranteed.
When is the best time to dive South Solitary Island?
Conditions vary through the year. Visibility is commonly 10–25 m. Check with local operators close to your dates.
Where is South Solitary Island?
South Solitary Island is in the Coffs Harbour & the Solitary Islands region of New South Wales.
Last researched: September 2026. Dive businesses change frequently — confirm current services, prices and requirements directly with the operator before booking.