Sugar Loaf is a dramatic volcanic pinnacle rising from the depths of the Admiralty Islands, just 15 minutes by boat north of Lord Howe Island. This exposed offshore site is characterised by steep drop-offs, coral-encrusted walls, and strong currents that sweep in nutrient-rich water, attracting large pelagic fish and vibrant soft corals. Depths range from 15–40 metres, making it a thrilling spot for experienced snorkelers and divers alike. The site sits at the convergence of five major ocean currents, including the warm East Australian Current, which sustains the world's southernmost coral reef system and an extraordinary diversity of marine life.
Sugar Loaf
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Wave Height 0.8 mSwell Period 8.4 sWind Speed 10.0 knPrecipitation 0.3 mmTidal Phase slack
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Strong tidal currents
Strong tidal currents, especially on a dropping tide, which can sweep snorkelers away from the pinnacle. The site is exposed to the Coral Sea current.
Moderate risk: Open ocean swell
Exposed offshore location with no shelter; conditions can change rapidly with wind and swell.
Low risk: Steep drop-offs
Depths of 15–40 metres with steep drop-offs; deep water close to the pinnacle requires good buoyancy control.
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Getting in
Boat
Entry
Sugar Loaf is part of the Admiralty Islands group, located about 15 minutes by boat from Lord Howe Island. Charter boats and dive operators such as Dive Lord Howe run regular trips to the site. No shore access — this is a boat-only pinnacle.
Parking & facilities
Park at the boat shed area on Lord Howe Island near the lagoon. Bicycles are the main form of transport on the island.
parking
Boat charter fees apply; typical guided snorkel/dive trip costs AUD $120–$180 per person.
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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