Seal Island Dive Sites

Moderate risk: Open water crossing

Seal Island is 900 m offshore — kayakers and swimmers must be capable of crossing open water with variable conditions.

Moderate risk: Afternoon sea breeze

Westerly winds strengthen by midday, creating waves and chop that make the return crossing more challenging.

Moderate risk: Wildlife exclusion zone

Yellow buoys mark a 10 m exclusion zone around the island. Do not cross — sea lions are protected and can be unpredictable at close range.

Moderate risk: Afternoon sea breeze and chop

Westerly winds strengthen around midday, creating waves and reducing visibility. The return crossing to the mainland can become hazardous in a kayak.

Moderate risk: Summer sea breeze and chop

Strong afternoon westerlies are common from spring through summer, making the 900m return crossing challenging.

Low risk: Boat traffic

The area is used by tour boats, private vessels, and kayaks. Tour boats get priority at mooring points — stay vigilant near buoys.

Low risk: Boating traffic

Tour boats have priority at mooring points. Swimmers and kayakers must stay clear of approaching vessels.

Low risk: Wildlife protection buoys

Yellow buoys mark a 10-metre exclusion zone around the island. Entering this zone is prohibited to protect hauled-out sea lions.

Low risk: Tidal currents between islands

Strong tidal currents can flow between the islands and the mainland, particularly during outgoing tides. Paddlers and swimmers should plan trips around slack water.

Low risk: Boat traffic in crossing channel

Vessels, including kayak tour groups and private boats, operate in the channel between Seal Island and the mainland. Stay vigilant for boat traffic.

Low risk: Cold water temperature

Winter water temperatures can drop to 18°C, increasing the risk of cold-water shock or hypothermia during extended snorkels. A wetsuit (3 mm or thicker) is strongly recommended from June to September.

Low risk: Protective sea lions on beach

Australian sea lions, while generally docile, may become defensive if approached too closely or if their escape route to the beach is blocked. Maintain a minimum distance of 10 m and do not separate adults from pups.

Low risk: Southerly swell and wind exposure

The western side of the island is exposed to prevailing southerly winds and swells, creating rougher conditions.