Lodestone Reef is the outer Great Barrier Reef site closest to Townsville and Magnetic Island, making it one of the most accessible offshore snorkelling destinations in North Queensland. Its diverse terrain ranges from coral bommies scattered across sandy bottoms to deep gullies with colourful walls where large schools of fish shelter from surge and currents. With depths from 1m to 20m, visibility is generally excellent, offering snorkellers and divers alike the chance to encounter half of the 'Great Eight' — Maori wrasse, clownfish, turtles, and reef sharks — alongside parrotfish, angelfish, and stingrays. The specific dive site is chosen on the day by experienced operators based on conditions, ensuring the best possible experience.
Lodestone Reef
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Wave Height 0.4 mSwell Period 5.2 sWind Speed 8.6 knPrecipitation 3.2 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Tidal currents
Outer reef sites can experience strong tidal flows, especially during incoming and outgoing tides, which may sweep snorkellers away from the reef.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers
Marine stingers (box jellyfish and Irukandji) are present in Great Barrier Reef waters during the warmer months.
Low risk: Sharp coral
Sharp coral formations can cause cuts and abrasions if snorkellers make contact.
Low risk: Boat traffic
Boat traffic in the reef channel requires vigilance when snorkelling near the surface.
Low risk: Sun exposure
Exposure to the tropical sun is intense year-round and can lead to rapid sunburn.
Low risk: Trade Wind Swell
South-east trade winds (June–September) can create choppy surface conditions and reduced visibility, making boat rides uncomfortable and snorkelling more challenging.
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Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Lodestone Reef is the outer reef closest to Magnetic Island and Townsville. Day trips depart from Townsville or Magnetic Island via local dive operators such as Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive. The reef is approximately a 1-hour boat ride from Townsville.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at the Townsville Breakwater Marina or nearby public car parks for day-trippers joining boat tours. No direct parking at the reef itself (boat access only).
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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