Gordon's Bay

Gordon's Bay is one of Sydney's most beloved and accessible shore dive sites, nestled in a sheltered cove between Clovelly and Coogee in the city's eastern suburbs. With a maximum depth of 15 meters, this beginner-friendly site features an established underwater nature trail that makes it the perfect place to discover Sydney's temperate marine world. The Gordon's Bay Underwater Nature Trail was one of the first of its kind in Australia, with a chain guide laid along the seabed to help divers navigate through the bay's key habitats. Following the trail takes divers over sandy bottom, through boulder fields, and along reef edges, providing a structured tour of the site's diverse environments. The rocky reef at Gordon's Bay supports a vibrant ecosystem typical of the Sydney coastline. Sponge gardens in warm oranges, deep purples, and electric yellows cover the rock faces, creating a colorful backdrop for the abundant marine life. Blue groper - large, inquisitive, and impossibly blue - are resident at the bay and often approach divers like underwater golden retrievers. Wobbegong sharks drape themselves across ledges, while cuttlefish hover near the reef with their mesmerizing color displays. The bay's sheltered position creates calm conditions even when the open coast is rough, making it a reliable diving option throughout the year. Entry is via a concrete boat ramp, and the gentle depth profile allows divers to ease into the water comfortably. The underwater trail provides navigation confidence for newer divers who might otherwise feel uncertain about direction. Visibility in the bay averages 5 to 10 meters, though exceptional days can bring 15 meters of clarity. Water temperatures range from 16 degrees in winter to 23 degrees in summer. The sheltered aspect means the bay warms up slightly faster than more exposed sites. Located within walking distance of Coogee Beach and its cafes, Gordon's Bay combines excellent diving with the lifestyle appeal of Sydney's iconic coastal walk. It is the perfect introduction to temperate diving for visitors and locals alike.