Diving in Gordon's Bay, Sydney 2024-2025

Discover a fantastic underwater world in the most stunning diving spot in Sydney

Best time: October–April

Gordon’s Bay is a secluded oasis south of Clovelly Beach and north of Coogee Beach. You can only reach it via the Coastal Walkway, and parking is available at either Clovelly or Coogee Beach.

Walking along the path into the deep coulee, you will see how raised boardwalks protect the native fauna and a small area fed by a natural spring. Don't hesitate to stop at the beach and enjoy the charm of this coastal location. The beach is pocket-sized and is lined with racks of boats from the local fishing club, similar to a European fishing village. The bay is quiet, secluded, and is abundant in native flora. The dense vegetation provides shelter for many small lizards and birds.

The Gordons Bay Underwater Nature Trail is a self-guided scuba snorkelling or diving adventure. This nature trail is like a bushwalking track in the wilderness, only it is found underwater. It includes a series of steel plaques attached to concrete drums about 20 meters apart, brought together by a chain, with info about the local sea life. On a clear day, it is possible to snorkel the underwater trail from the surface, and it usually takes about 40 minutes to dive the 600-meter path.

Gordon’s Bay is positioned on the eastern side of False Bay, and from October to April, the southeasterly wind blows offshore. This causes the surface water to move along the coast towards the north, away from Gordon’s Bay. Then the water is compensated by an upwelling of deeper waters from outside of the bay. This "new" water is relatively cold and clear, thus, creates better conditions for snorkelling and diving.

Practical info

When is the best time to snorkel or dive in Gordon's Bay, Sydney?

From October to April, the wind blows offshore, pushing surface water away from Gordon's Bay. The new, colder and clearer water creates great conditions for diving and snorkeling.

What can I expect to see underwater in the Gordons Bay Underwater Nature Trail?

The Gordons Bay Underwater Nature Trail has steel plaques attached to concrete drums with information about local sea life. Visitors can see various marine species, including sea dragons, blue groper, cuttlefish, and octopus.

How long does it take to dive the 600-meter path of the underwater nature trail?

Diving the 600-meter underwater nature trail in Gordon’s Bay usually takes about 40 minutes, depending on various factors. Snorkeling is also possible on clear days for those wishing to take their time and explore further.

What is the significance of the upwelling of deeper waters from outside of the bay during the months of October to April?

From October to April, the southeasterly wind causes the surface water to move north, away from Gordon’s Bay. Incoming cold, clear water from the deeper ocean creates better conditions for snorkeling and diving. The upwelling also attracts new marine species like krill, which in turn draws more marine animals.