Palm Beach Reef is the largest coral reef system on the Gold Coast — a sprawling offshore rocky reef system about 2–3 times larger than the exposed part of Cook Island. Its mix of shallow colourful gardens (6–12 m) and deeper gutters (up to 25 m) offers snorkellers and divers an astonishing variety of terrain. Unlike many inshore spots, the reef is slightly protected from south-easterly swells by Point Danger, giving it some of the best visibility on the Gold Coast. Named dive sites such as Clown City, The Gutters, and The Zoo dot the reef, each with its own character.
Palm Beach Reef
IntermediateGO
GO
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.6 mSwell Period 6.9 sWind Speed 8.7 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
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Low risk: Boat Traffic
Boat-only access site with moderate offshore boat traffic. Snorkellers must be aware of vessels at all times.
Low risk: Occasional Currents
Though generally calm, moderate currents can occasionally develop around the reef, especially near the Gutters.
Low risk: Variable Visibility
Visibility can change with weather and swell conditions; best on calm, low-swell days.
Low risk: Shark Encounters
Leopard sharks and occasional grey nurse sharks are present. Generally not aggressive but can startle unaware snorkellers.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Palm Beach Reef is located approximately 3 km offshore from Palm Beach on the Gold Coast. Only accessible by boat — launch from the Gold Coast Seaway (about a 25-minute ride) or the Tweed River. Do not attempt to cross Currumbin Creek bar, which is shallow and dangerous.
Parking & facilities
Free parking available at Palm Beach Parklands Carpark with over 100 bays, open 24/7.
parking
No entry fee; charter dive/snorkel tours typically cost $45-$150 per person depending on operator and duration.
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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