North Stradbroke Island · Queensland
Scuba Diving at Shag Rock
A shallower alternative to Flat Rock off North Stradbroke, with turtles and rays.
Shag Rock sits closer to shore than Flat Rock and offers a shallower, generally calmer alternative when conditions are marginal.
Turtles are abundant, and the boulder terrain and gutters hold a good range of subtropical species.
It is frequently used as the second dive of a Stradbroke day trip or as the primary site when Flat Rock is too exposed.
Recommended: Open Water Diver. Parts of the site reach 22 m, which needs Advanced Open Water Diver. What can I dive with my cert?
Max depth
22 m
typically 15 m
Access
boat
Current
variable
Water temp
19–26°C
Level
intermediate
| Region | North Stradbroke Island |
|---|---|
| State | Queensland |
| Access | boat |
| Site type | reef |
| Minimum depth | 6 m |
| Typical depth | 15 m |
| Maximum depth | 22 m |
| Current | variable |
| Visibility | Commonly 10–20 m |
| Water temperature | Roughly 19–26°C |
| Experience level | intermediate |
These are guidance categories, not guarantees. Conditions on the day, and an operator’s own requirements, override any classification here.
- green turtles
- wobbegongs
- rays
- schooling baitfish
- leopard sharks in summer
- grey nurse sharks occasionally
Access
- Boat access from North Stradbroke Island or Brisbane.
- Shallower and more sheltered than Flat Rock.
Hazards
- current
- surge in shallow gutters
- boat traffic
Businesses documented as regularly diving this site.
Useful Training for Diving Shag Rock
Not a list of everything available — the qualifications that actually change what you can do at this site.
Dive Sites Similar to Shag Rock
Worth reading alongside this one.
Planning Guides for Diving Shag Rock
Practical guides selected from this site's access, environment, wildlife and experience profile.
Dive Sites Near Shag Rock
Other documented sites within range, nearest first — useful for building a trip rather than a single dive.
Other Dive Businesses Near Shag Rock
Not documented as servicing this site, but close enough to be useful for fills, hire or advice.
Shag Rock Diving FAQs
How deep is Shag Rock?
Depths range from around 6 metres to roughly 22 metres, with a typical profile around 15 metres. Conditions and route selection change this considerably.
Is Shag Rock suitable for beginners?
Better suited to divers with some experience beyond entry level, particularly in the local conditions. Discuss your recent diving honestly with the operator rather than relying on certification alone.
How do you get to Shag Rock?
Boat access from North Stradbroke Island or Brisbane. Shallower and more sheltered than Flat Rock.
Is there current at Shag Rock?
Current is recorded as variable. Conditions vary daily and should be checked close to the day.
What will I see at Shag Rock?
Commonly reported marine life includes green turtles, wobbegongs, rays, schooling baitfish, leopard sharks in summer, grey nurse sharks occasionally. Sightings are never guaranteed.
When is the best time to dive Shag Rock?
Conditions vary through the year. Visibility is commonly 10–20 m. Check with local operators close to your dates.
Where is Shag Rock?
Shag Rock is in the North Stradbroke Island region of Queensland.
Last researched: September 2026. Dive businesses change frequently — confirm current services, prices and requirements directly with the operator before booking.