Saxon Reef is a vibrant patch reef on the outer Great Barrier Reef, about 55 km northeast of Cairns. Nestled between Norman and Hastings Reefs, it features shallow coral bommies (mounds) that create calm, sheltered lagoons perfect for snorkeling. The reef is quieter than many outer reef sites, offering pristine coral gardens, small caves, overhangs, and swim-throughs. Snorkelers can drift over the bommie tops amid blooming hard corals and abundant fish life in crystal-clear tropical waters.
Saxon Reef
IntermediateGO
GO
It's a go.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 7.0 sWind Speed 8.8 knPrecipitation 2.4 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Stinger season
Stinging jellyfish (including box jellyfish and Irukandji) may be present in warmer months.
Low risk: Ocean currents
Open ocean swell can create strong currents around the reef edge, especially during changing tides.
Low risk: Sharp coral
Sharp coral formations on bommies and shallow sections can cause cuts if touched.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
1 photo from the community
Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Located approximately 55 km northeast of Cairns, Queensland. Accessed via commercial snorkel and dive tours departing from Cairns or Port Douglas. Boat ride takes roughly 1.5 hours.
Parking & facilities
Park at the Cairns marina or Port Douglas departure points (paid parking available).
toilets
Accessible only via paid tour operators — prices vary by operator, typically AUD $150–$250 per person including gear, lunch, and reef tax.
Spot Map
Community
Gallery ┬╖ 1 photos
Trust
Is this spot real, accurate, still loved?
Spots near Queensland
No nearby spots yet.
Needs verification
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.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports