The Best Spots to Freedive in New South Wales

If you’re looking for a reason to start freediving or jump back in the water after a La Niña induced hiatus, then look no further. In this blog, I will talk you through some of my favourite diving spots right here in New South Wales - home to, arguably, some of the best diving experiences in Australia.

Cabbage Tree Bay, Manly (Right here in Sydney’s Northern Beaches)

Let’s start with every Sydney freediver’s favourite location - Cabbage Tree Bay. This spot is a little slice of paradise right on our doorstep. This is the perfect place for anyone new to freediving who is looking to immerse themselves in a truly stunning underwater world. Cabbage Tree Bay is an aquatic reserve and because of this, the marine life is thriving. Here you have the opportunity to swim amongst giant schools of fish, watch the otherworldly interactions of Giant Cuttlefish during mating season, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot one of the resident Grey Nurse Sharks that inhabit this spot. Don’t worry, they may look scary but they are very placid and timid creatures who will probably pretend you don’t exist. If you’re looking for a less intimidating interaction, you’re almost guaranteed to be accosted by one of many overly friendly Blue Gropers upon diving in at this spot. These sweet guys are known as the Labradors of the fish world, and for good reason - they will follow you around and are definitely not camera shy! Hit Cabbage Tree Bay if you’re looking for some beautiful wildlife interactions without having to leave the city.

Two rival male Giant Cuttlefish dance during mating season - you may be lucky enough to witness this in the colder months at Cabbage Tree Bay.

Swimming through giant schools of fish is common at Cabbage Tree Bay

Montague Island, Narooma (5 hours drive south of Sydney)

No, you haven’t died and gone to freediver heaven - you’re at Montague Island! This spot is utopia for freedivers, scuba divers and underwater photographers alike - it truly never disappoints. How can it when you have hundreds of playful Australian fur seals ducking and diving, vying for your attention? Montague Island is a short boat ride from the small coastal town of Narooma, and it’s well worth the five hour road trip from Sydney. As well as the most playful puppies of the sea, you’re likely to encounter some of the biggest bull rays out there, some with wingspans of nearly two meters. And if that isn't enough, this spot is home to giant schools of fish, so diving here genuinely feels like you’re in an aquarium. More often than not, the waters of Montague Island are crystal clear and teeming with life. Do yourself a favour and put Montague Island right at the top of your freedive bucket list!

A freediver glides through a harem of Australian Fur Seals at Montague Island, Narooma

Seal Rocks (3 hours drive north of Sydney)

Despite the name, it’s not seals that you’re most likely to encounter at this stunning spot - it’s sharks. Sweet Port Jackson sharks, Ornate Wobbegongs, Grey Nurse Sharks and even Great Hammerheads have been known to frequent the waters here. If sharks are not your thing, you may also be lucky enough to see a turtle or five (yes, five inquisitive turtles came to say hi to us on our last visit!) Around the big rock you will find abundant marine life, pure white sand and often crystal clear water. There are also some interesting underwater caves along the rock itself, which is where you may find a shiver of Port Jackson’s hiding out (yes, shiver really is the collective name for sharks!) If you’re super lucky, you may even bump into a school of catfish or a fever of cow nose rays here - it really is one of the most diverse diving spots I’ve encountered. Beware though, the swim from Boat Beach out to the rocks can be a tricky one, with strong currents often raging through the channel, so make sure you’re confident in the water for this site, and always keep your dive buddies close.

Diving with turtles in pristine waters can be a reality at Seal Rocks

Bushrangers Bay, Shellharbour (2 hours south of Sydney)

A hidden gem less than two hours south of Sydney, this spot is a sanctuary for the critically endangered Grey Nurse Shark, which was tragically hunted to near extinction in the 1960’s. Thankfully these sweet natured sharks have flourished in this spot, so you’re bound to bump into a few if you go at the right time of year. Be sure to give them their space and watch their antics from afar as they are notoriously nervous and flighty. The second best thing about this spot after the sharks is that there is an equally stunning spot just around the corner - The Gravel Loader. This is a large jetty that stretches way out into the ocean and is home to large schools of Old Wives, Blue Gropers and Giant Cuttlefish. This is one of my favourite spots to take photos; if you time it right, the sunrays gleaming through the pylons can make for some mesmerising shots. So dust off the GoPro and get out there!

Swimming alongside a beautiful (and harmless) Grey Nurse Shark.

A freediver takes a rest on one of the old structures at The Gravel Loader site, Shellharbour

So there you have it, five unbelievable spots ready and waiting for you to explore. With summer around the corner, now is the time to learn to freedive, find out more about our courses and book now. 

Another world awaits! 

See you in the water soon.