Windarra Banks — also known as The Cod Grounds — is an offshore reef pinnacle system roughly 30 km south of Port Macquarie on the NSW North Coast. Protected within the Cod Grounds Marine Park, this site is renowned for its towering underwater mountains that rise from depths of 40 m to around 26 m. Strong oceanic currents sweep the pinnacles, attracting huge congregations of eagle rays, bull rays, large kingfish, and critically endangered grey nurse sharks that rest near the seafloor. The nutrient-rich upwelling supports abundant tropical fish and pelagic life, while humpback whales pass through during migration season. Visibility can reach 20 m, and the site is exclusively accessed by boat — typically via charter from Brunswick Heads or Port Macquarie. This is an advanced-level spot suited to experienced snorkelers and divers comfortable with strong currents and open ocean conditions.
Windarra Banks (The Cod Grounds)
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
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© Richard LingDANGER: Explicit Risks Present
Windarra Banks (The Cod Grounds) has hazards marked as danger. Entering the water here means you may face serious risks to your personal safety.
- Strong Oceanic Currents danger
Windarra Banks is known for raging currents that can rip across the pinnacles, making swimming and navigation difficult.
- Depth Risk danger
Pinnacle tops are at ~26 m with the seafloor at 40+ m, creating a high risk of rapid depth changes and potential for decompression sickness for free-divers.
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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High risk: Strong Oceanic Currents
Windarra Banks is known for raging currents that can rip across the pinnacles, making swimming and navigation difficult.
High risk: Depth Risk
Pinnacle tops are at ~26 m with the seafloor at 40+ m, creating a high risk of rapid depth changes and potential for decompression sickness for free-divers.
Moderate risk: Open Ocean Swell
Exposed offshore location subject to significant swell and weather-dependent conditions. Dives/snorkels may be cancelled at short notice.
Moderate risk: Limited Accessibility
Remote offshore location accessible only by boat; no shore entry possible. Weather-dependent access with limited rescue options.
Low risk: Cold Water Temperatures
Water temperature can drop to ~21°C even in summer, increasing the risk of cold water shock and reduced dive times.
Wildlife Guide
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Getting in
Windarra Banks (Cod Grounds Marine Park) is located roughly 30 km south of Port Macquarie and 10+ km offshore from Camden Haven. The site is accessible only by chartered boat from ports such as Brunswick Heads, Port Macquarie, or Camden Haven. No shore access is possible.
Parking is available at Brunswick Heads Boat Harbour and Port Macquarie marinas. Fees and time limits may apply; check local signage.
No entry fee for the marine park itself. Charter boat fees vary by operator; expect to pay market rates for full-day offshore charters.
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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.