Mackerel Boulders is a renowned dive and snorkel site within the Cape Byron Marine Park, off the coast of Byron Bay, NSW. Named for its submerged boulder fields and rocky reef formations, this site sits at depths of 12–26 m and is known for attracting large pelagics including grey nurse sharks and bull sharks. Accessed by boat from Byron Bay, the site offers dramatic underwater topography with bommies, swim-throughs, and boulder gardens teeming with temperate and subtropical marine life. It is a premier site for experienced snorkelers and divers seeking an adrenaline-filled encounter with sharks and rays.
Mackerel Boulders
AdvancedMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
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Wave Height 0.6 mSwell Period 7.0 sWind Speed 10 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Strong ocean currents
The site is exposed to oceanic currents typical of offshore reefs, which can sweep snorkelers away from the boulder field. Best visited in calm conditions.
Moderate risk: Depth and decompression risk
Depths range from 12–26 m, exceeding safe free-diving limits for inexperienced snorkelers. Snorkeling here is recommended for advanced, strong swimmers only.
Low risk: Bull shark presence
Bull sharks are known to frequent Mackerel Boulders, particularly during warmer months. While usually not aggressive, their presence warrants caution.
Low risk: Boat traffic
Access is by boat only, and the site lies within an offshore marine park corridor. Snorkelers must be aware of vessel traffic and stay near the dive boat.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Mackerel Boulders is located approximately 5–10 km offshore from Byron Bay, NSW. It is accessed via charter boat from Byron Bay's boat ramp or marina. Local dive operators such as Sundive Byron Bay and Jetty Dive Centre run trips to the site. No shore access is possible.
Parking & facilities
Parking is available at the Byron Bay boat ramp or at dive operator premises in Byron Bay town centre. Arrive early to secure a spot during busy summer months.
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No fee to access the site itself, but boat charter fees apply through local dive operators (typically $120–$180 per person for a two-tank dive/snorkel trip).
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports