The Needles (Julian Rocks)

Best time to dive

December to May

What you might see

• Eagle rayLikely
• NudibranchLikely
• Sea turtleLikely

Sightings are seasonal probabilities, not promises - even in peak season nature does its own thing.

Certification & difficulty

Open Water - advanced conditions (currents/depth); dive within your training.

Snorkelling

Not a snorkel site - limited/not primary - large bommies break the surface but dedicated snorkel tours focus on The Nursery area instead

Safety notes

leopard/grey nurse sharks protected - no touching/chasing/blocking/cornering, minimize flash near resting sharks; current/surge around shallow bommies; boat traffic

Permits & fees

same sanctuary (no-take) zone, Cape Byron Marine Park / Julian Rocks Nguthungulli Nature Reserve; no per-diver fee verified

Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.

Location

Nearest hub: Byron Bay