The Boulders is a spectacular outer reef dive and snorkel site on Flynn Reef, part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The sloping seabed is littered with massive granite-like coral boulders and coral bommies that rise from 20 metres to just below the surface. These formations create a labyrinth of swim-throughs, ledges, and gullies teeming with pelagic life. Strong tidal flow brings nutrient-rich water, attracting large schools of fish, mackerel, and the occasional hammerhead shark. Accessible only by boat from the Whitsundays, this site offers some of the most dramatic underwater topography in the region.
Boulders Dive Site (Whitsunday Island)
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 2.5 sWind Speed 1.4 knPrecipitation 1.3 mmTidal Phase flood
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The spot
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Strong Tidal Currents
Tidal currents can be strong around the boulder formations, especially during spring tides. Snorkelers should stay close to the boat and follow the guide's instructions.
Low risk: Ocean Swells & Wind
Flynn Reef is exposed to the Coral Sea and can experience southeasterly swells and wind chop, making conditions rough for snorkelers on windy days.
Low risk: Remote Location
The site is remote — 1.5-2 hours from shore. Emergency evacuation is via boat, so medical facilities are far away.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Access is via boat tour operators departing from Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island, or Shute Harbour. The Boulders is located on the outer Great Barrier Reef at Flynn Reef, a 1.5-2 hour boat ride from the mainland. Most trips are organised as day tours or liveaboard charters.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at Airlie Beach marina precinct and Shute Harbour (paid parking).
toilets
Access via guided tour — expect AUD $200-350 per person for a day trip including equipment, lunch, and transfers.
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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