The Stepping Stones is a world-class snorkel and dive site on Hardy Reef, part of the outer Great Barrier Reef in the Whitsundays. Named for a series of stepped coral bommies that form a stunning underwater staircase, this site boasts vibrant coral gardens, excellent visibility (8–18 m), and calm, warm waters. Snorkelers drift above plate corals, bommies, and drop-offs teeming with marine life. The site is accessed via the Reefworld pontoon, one of the most accessible outer-reef pontoons on the Great Barrier Reef, offering a full day of underwater exploration.
Hardy Reef - Stepping Stones
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Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 2.9 sWind Speed 8.4 knPrecipitation 0.6 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Stingers (jellyfish)
Stinging marine organisms including box jellyfish and Irukandji may be present in warmer months.
Low risk: Tidal currents
Strong tidal currents can sweep through the reef channels, particularly during outgoing tides. Snorkelers should stay within marked areas and follow guide instructions.
Low risk: Sharp coral
Sharp coral formations and shallow bommies can cause cuts and abrasions. Snorkelers must avoid touching the coral.
Low risk: Boat traffic
Boat traffic in the vicinity of the Reefworld pontoon and during tour transfers.
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Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Access is via boat, seaplane, or helicopter from Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island, or Daydream Island. Most visitors join a full-day tour departing from Airlie Beach (approx. 2-hour boat ride to the reef pontoon).
Parking & facilities
Parking is available at the marina in Airlie Beach for day-trippers. Check with your tour operator for specific meeting points and parking arrangements.
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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