Lavender Patch is a striking snorkeling site off Coral Bay on the Ningaloo Reef, named for the vivid purple-blue coral colonies that carpet the seabed in dense, colourful patches. Located just south of Purdy Point near the 5-knot sign, the patch lies 20–50 metres from shore within the fringing reef system. Drift-snorkelling north with the gentle current reveals kaleidoscopic coral gardens teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. The vibrant lavender coral fields make this one of the most visually unique and photogenic shore-entry spots on the Ningaloo coast.
Lavender Patch
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.8 mSwell Period 12 sWind Speed 5.4 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Drift current (south to north)
A consistent along-shore current carries snorkellers northward. Beginners can be swept past their entry point and may struggle to return against the flow.
Moderate risk: Remote location
The site is isolated with limited mobile reception and no nearby medical facilities — self-reliance is essential.
Moderate risk: Stinging marine life
Box jellyfish and irukandji may be present during the warmer months; stinger suits are strongly recommended.
Low risk: Shallow coral bommies
Large plate coral and bommies sit close to the surface at lower tides, posing a risk of cuts or coral damage if swimmers do not maintain buoyancy.
Low risk: Boat traffic
The 5-knot zone marker indicates vessel activity. Snorkellers should stay vigilant and keep clear of the signed channel.
Low risk: Shifting wind conditions
Afternoon sea breezes can quickly chop the water surface, reducing visibility and making swims back to shore tiring.
Low risk: Sharp limestone reef
Exposed and submerged limestone patches near the camp shore can cause cuts and scrapes; reef shoes advised.
Wildlife Guide
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
From Coral Bay town, drive south along the coastal track past Purdy Point. Look for the 5-knot speed sign in the water — Lavender Patch is about 20–50 m offshore at this marker. Park along the sandy verge and walk to the beach.
Parking & facilities
Unsealed roadside parking near the 5-knot sign south of Purdy Point. No marked bays; limited space.
No fee for shore access. Coral Bay is outside Cape Range National Park, so no park entry fee applies.
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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