Dive-site story
Situated within the Cape Byron Marine Park off the coast of Byron Bay, Julian Rocks is a pair of volcanic rocky outcrops where tropical waters from the north meet colder southern currents. This convergence creates a distinctive biological transition zone hosting both hard corals and kelp. The site features multiple distinct zones, including the protected shallow sandy gutters of the Nursery, the deeper drop-off at the Cod Hole, and extensive boulder fields interspersed with swim-throughs and trenches.
Seasonal aggregations of critically endangered grey nurse sharks resting in sandy gutters
Summer encounters with leopard sharks and visiting manta rays over the rocky reef flats
Year-round populations of curious eastern blue gropers and resting wobbegong sharks
Dynamic volcanic topography filled with overhangs, drop-offs, and trench systems
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Summer brings warmer water, leopard sharks, and manta rays, while cooler winter months attract aggregations of grey nurse sharks.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grey Nurse SharkCarcharias taurus | Seasonal | ||||||||||||
| Leopard SharkStegostoma tigrinum | Seasonal | ||||||||||||
| Spotted WobbegongOrectolobus maculatus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Eastern Blue GroperAchoerodus viridis | Common | ||||||||||||
| Green Sea TurtleChelonia mydas | Common | ||||||||||||
| Reef Manta RayMobula alfredi | Seasonal |
Marine forecast
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