Opal Reef is a large, crescent-shaped outer reef on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef's continental shelf, roughly 50 km east of Port Douglas. Its U-shape provides natural shelter from prevailing winds, resulting in consistently calm, crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling. The reef hosts over 15 named snorkel sites including Rayban, Mojo, and Blue Lagoon, each offering distinct terrain — from shallow coral gardens of staghorn and plate coral, sandy gullies, and bommies to deep oceanic walls. Visibility ranges 12-18 m, and the array of habitats supports dazzling fish life, turtles, and reef sharks. A low-impact tourism zone, it's accessed only by select eco-certified operators.
Opal Reef
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Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 6.8 sWind Speed 8.3 knPrecipitation 3.5 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Marine Stingers (Jellyfish)
Stinging jellyfish (including box jellyfish) may be present in tropical waters, particularly during the wet season. Stinger suits are provided by tour operators.
Low risk: Tidal Currents
Some sites (e.g., Plato, South North Opal) experience strong tidal currents that can sweep snorkelers off course. Only suitable on certain tides and calm conditions.
Low risk: Strong Wind / Choppy Seas
From June to August, trade winds can make ocean-side sites choppy and reduce visibility, especially on exposed sites like South North Opal or New Seagull.
Low risk: Territorial Titan Triggerfish
Summer nesting season can see titan triggerfish become territorial. Snorkelers are advised to avoid approaching these fish.
Low risk: Remote Offshore Access
The reef is a considerable distance offshore; access is restricted to larger vessels for most of the year. Tour cancellations can occur in poor weather. Motion sickness is possible on the 90-minute boat ride.
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Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Opal Reef is located ~50-60 km (30-40 miles) east of Port Douglas in the Coral Sea. Tours depart from Port Douglas Marina (Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina) at ~8:00 am with a 90-minute boat ride to the reef. Return is around 4:00-4:30 pm.
Parking & facilities
Paid parking available at Port Douglas Marina and nearby council car parks along Macrossan Street and Wharf Street in Port Douglas. Arrive early during peak season (May-October). Parking is about 5-10 minutes' walk from check-in desks at Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina or Reef Marina, Port Douglas, Q
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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