Hyams Beach offers a sheltered reef dive in shallow to moderate depths of 1 to 12 metres, making it a comfortable choice for beginners. Visibility runs from 2 to 10 metres depending on conditions, and the current is generally mild. The seafloor transitions through seagrass beds and sponge gardens where you can find weedy seadragons, octopus, and fiddler rays resting on the sand. Eastern blue groper, leatherjackets, and Australian giant cuttlefish are regularly spotted along the reef, and Port Jackson sharks shelter close to the bottom. Check the surf and watch for rip currents before entering from shore.

Greenfield Beach is a shore entry site in New South Wales suited to beginner divers and snorkellers. The water stays consistently shallow at around 4 metres, and the mild current keeps conditions manageable for those still building confidence. Visibility is variable, so some visits will reward you more than others. Beneath the surface you can find octopus tucked into crevices, squid in the water column, and a variety of fish moving through the shallows. Take care with marine life interactions and keep a respectful distance from any animals you encounter. Parking is available at the site.

Blenheim Beach is a gentle shore dive suited to beginners, with shallow, calm waters and a mild current that rarely causes concern. The seagrass beds and reef attract a solid mix of marine life, including Port Jackson sharks, cuttlefish, octopus, starfish, crabs, and colourful fish. Dolphins occasionally pass through. Visibility can vary, so conditions are worth checking before you go. Watch out for jellyfish, and give any marine life plenty of space. Facilities are good, with parking, toilets, and showers on site. The best time to visit is during the warmer months from November through to April.

Plantation Point is a gentle shore dive off New South Wales that suits beginners well. The reef sits in shallow water between 1 and 5 metres, so you can take your time getting comfortable without worrying about depth. Visibility runs from 15 to 20 metres, meaning you can see clearly across the reef and keep your buddy in sight easily. Currents can vary, so check conditions on the day before entering. The site supports a variety of reef species worth watching closely. One thing to be careful of is sharp coral, so watch where you put your hands and knees.

Green Patch Beach is a gentle shore entry site combining reef and seagrass habitat in easy shallow waters, reaching just 10 metres at its deepest. Visibility runs from 5 to 10 metres, and the mild current makes this a comfortable choice for beginners building confidence underwater. The seagrass beds are worth slowing down for, as they shelter seahorses, pipefish, and squid. On the reef, look for blue groper, wrasse, and leatherjacket moving between the rocks, while Port Jackson sharks and fiddler rays often rest on the sandy bottom. Octopus, Australian giant cuttlefish, and the occasional seagrass seahorse round out the highlights. Watch the surf on entry and exit.

Hole in the Wall drops you into a wall dive in deeper water, running to 30 metres where nitrogen narcosis becomes a genuine consideration for anyone pushing the bottom. Visibility can reach 30 metres in the right conditions, though the site-listed range is wide, so check recent reports before committing. Current stays mild, which helps when you're working the wall methodically. This is grey nurse shark and wobbegong territory, and the site also draws weedy sea dragons, giant cuttlefish, octopus, Port Jackson sharks, nudibranchs, and seals. Boat traffic is an active hazard on ascent, so deploy your DSMB and stay alert during the safety stop.

Murrays Beach is a calm, shallow shore dive well suited to beginners looking to build confidence in the water. The seagrass beds and surrounding reef provide habitat for some genuinely rewarding encounters, including weedy sea-dragons, octopus, and small stingrays resting on the sand. Blue gropers and eastern blue devilfish are common reef residents, and squid and rockfish appear regularly. Visibility can vary, so pick a settled day for the clearest water. Mild current is typical, though be aware of surge and surf near the entry point. Dolphins pass through on occasion.

Nursery at Bowen Island offers beginner divers an unforgettable introduction to Australia's most famous shark encounter. This boat-accessible site sits at depths between 3 and 16 metres, making it comfortable for newer divers while delivering spectacular marine life. The real draw here is the chance to observe Grey Nurse Sharks in their natural habitat, often joined by Port Jackson Sharks and Wobbegong sharks resting on the sandy bottom. Visibility ranges from 10 to 25 metres, giving you excellent sightlines to appreciate these gentle giants despite their intimidating appearance. The mild current keeps conditions manageable, though you may notice some surge near the surface. Between the sharks, you'll find Eastern Blue Devils darting between rocks, seahorses clinging to growth, and the occasional cuttlefish or octopus displaying remarkable colour changes. Rays glide past while yellowtail and seapike patrol the mid-water. The site works best during the cooler months from April through September when Grey Nurse Sharks congregate here. Full facilities are available including boat charters, dive shop services, equipment rental, air fills, and parking at the departure point. While sharks might seem daunting, these species are docile and more interested in their own business than you. Just maintain neutral buoyancy and enjoy the show.