Sykes Reef is a pristine outer-shelf coral reef in the Southern Great Barrier Reef, approximately 50 km offshore from Agnes Water / Town of 1770. This lesser-visited site features dramatic drop-offs, ledges, caves, and ancient giant coral bommies that rise from the deep. The nutrient-rich waters attract a stunning array of marine life including turtles, reef sharks, octopus, and vibrant reef fish. Its remote location and small-group tour access ensure uncrowded, pristine snorkeling conditions on the reef edge.
Sykes Reef
IntermediateGO
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Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.3 mSwell Period 6.2 sWind Speed 5.8 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase flood
Last evaluated
© JD Reimer, Gary CranitchThe spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Tidal currents
Outer reef can experience strong tidal flows that create currents around coral bommies and drop-offs. Snorkelers should stay close to the group and guide.
Moderate risk: Marine stingers
Marine stingers including box jellyfish may be present in warmer months.
Low risk: Ocean swell and wind chop
Open ocean swell and wind can affect conditions on the outer reef, particularly in winter and during southerly winds.
Low risk: Sharp coral formations
Sharp coral and rocky ledges present a cut hazard; contact can cause injury to both snorkelers and the reef.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
1 photo from the community
Getting in
Snorkel tour
Entry
Accessible only by boat from Agnes Water / Town of 1770, approximately 50 km offshore. Day tours operate from this departure point with small groups.
Parking & facilities
Parking available at the marina or departure point in Agnes Water / Town of 1770.
Tour fees apply; day trip packages typically include snorkel equipment, guide, and meals. Check with local operators for current pricing.
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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