Pimpernel Rock is a world-class offshore snorkel and dive site about 7 km east of Sandon Point in Yuraygir National Park, within the Solitary Islands Marine Park, North Coast NSW. This dramatic U-shaped granite pinnacle rises from 40 m depth to within 10 m of the surface, its walls carpeted with vibrant gorgonians, sea whips, corals, and sponges. A striking tunnel runs through the base of the rock, providing an unforgettable swim-through experience. The site's pristine oceanic water (often 25 m+ visibility) attracts large pelagics including massive schools of yellowtail kingfish and jewfish, plus resident grey nurse sharks that shelter in the caves. Surrounded by open ocean with frequent currents, Pimpernel Rock offers a truly wild, adrenaline-fuelled snorkel for experienced water-goers who want to experience one of Australia's finest marine environments.
Pimpernel Rock
It's a go.
Showing last known conditions
Last evaluated
DANGER: Explicit Risks Present
Pimpernel Rock has hazards marked as danger. Entering the water here means you may face serious risks to your personal safety.
- Strong Ocean Currents danger
The offshore location frequently experiences strong and unpredictable currents that can sweep snorkelers away from the rock. Only experienced snorkelers should attempt this site.
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
High risk: Strong Ocean Currents
The offshore location frequently experiences strong and unpredictable currents that can sweep snorkelers away from the rock. Only experienced snorkelers should attempt this site.
Moderate risk: Deep Water - Depth to 40m
The pinnacle rises from 40 m depth; the tunnel swim-through requires descent to 27 m or more. Significant depth hazard for snorkelers.
Moderate risk: Remote Offshore Location
Located ~7 km offshore with no nearby land refuge. Requires boat access only; emergency response is remote.
Low risk: River Runoff / Reduced Visibility
After heavy rain, the Clarence River to the north can discharge brown water, reducing visibility dramatically.
Low risk: Boat Traffic
Charter and private dive boats operate in the area; snorkelers sharing the site with dive groups must be aware of anchor lines and vessel movements.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
Be the first to share a photo
No photos yet — yours could be the first.
Photos are reviewed by moderators before they appear.
Getting in
Pimpernel Rock is located approximately 7 km offshore from Sandon Point in Yuraygir National Park, about 44 km south of Wooli or 27 km from the Wooli wharf. Private boats with GPS can launch from Sandon Point (suitable for RIBs/inflatables) or from Wooli for larger vessels. The key GPS coordinates are 29° 41' 52" S 153° 23' 52" E (datum AUS66). Most visitors access the site via charter boat from Wooli Dive Centre, which requires a minimum group of 6 snorkelers/divers.
Parking available at Sandon Point boat ramp parking area or at the Wooli Dive Centre precinct.
Charter boat fees apply via Wooli Dive Centre (typically ~$100-180 per person depending on group size). Private boat access is free but requires marine park compliance.
Spot Map
Community
Trust
Is this spot real, accurate, still loved?
Spots near New South Wales
No nearby spots yet.
Quick verify
One tap helps the community keep this spot honest.
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.