Sunset Drift is a premier drift snorkel site on the south side of Lady Elliot Island, at the southernmost tip of the Great Barrier Reef. This coral cay sits within a highly protected Green Zone, where nutrient-rich currents sweep across vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life. The site is world-famous for manta ray encounters during plankton-rich months, when these gentle giants glide through the water column alongside eagle rays, sea turtles, and dazzling schools of reef fish. Named for the spectacular late-afternoon light that filters through the clear water, Sunset Drift offers a gentle current-assisted drift over pristine bommies and coral formations.
Sunset Drift
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Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 6.2 sWind Speed 1.1 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Moderate risk: Marine Stingers
Stinger jellyfish (box jellyfish and Irukandji) are present in the southern Great Barrier Reef waters during the warmer months.
Low risk: Drift Current
Sunset Drift is a drift snorkel site where currents can carry snorkelers along the south side of the island. While generally moderate, tidal flow can strengthen and separate snorkelers from their group.
Low risk: Depth / Drop-off
Depths of 12-22m on the outer reef edge require good buoyancy control and snorkeling competency. Deeper water close to the reef drop-off.
Low risk: Sharp Coral
Sharp coral formations and bommies are present along the drift route. Snorkelers must be aware of their surroundings to avoid contact with live coral.
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Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Sunset Drift is located on the south side of Lady Elliot Island, a coral cay at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef. Access is via scenic flight from Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, or the Gold Coast to Lady Elliot Island, followed by a guided snorkel tour from the island's eco resort.
Parking & facilities
No parking on the island. Park at Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, or Gold Coast airports before flying to the island. Alternatively, charter boats access the island from the mainland harbors with limited parking available at marinas in Bundaberg or Gladstone region.
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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