Fish RockFish Rock is a rocky island and submerged reef standing offshore from South West Rocks, set against the coastal landscape of New South Wales. The rock and its surrounding reef rise from deeper water and form a compact but complex dive site with ledges, overhangs and swim-throughs.
The feature sits close to the headlands and beaches protected by Arakoon National Park, and the area is known for coastal wildlife both above and below the surface. Visiting the rock is mainly an activity for divers and boat-based wildlife watchers rather than beachgoers, and most visits are organised through local dive operators operating from South West Rocks.
- Shark and pelagic encounters: Fish Rock is renowned among divers for regular encounters with larger fish and sharks around the caves and ledges, attracting underwater photographers.
- Underwater caverns and swim-throughs: The reef includes submerged caverns, tunnels and overhangs that make for dramatic diving topography and sheltered spots for marine life.
- Boat approach and headland views: Approaching from the water offers striking views of the rocky headlands and the coastline of Arakoon National Park.
- Coastal birdlife: Seabirds and coastal species can be spotted on the rock and nearby headlands, especially during calm weather.
Nearby Attractions to Fish Rock#
Best Time to Visit Fish Rock#
Sea and weather conditions change through the year; calmer and drier months generally make boat access and underwater visibility easier.
Weather & Climate near Fish Rock#
Fish Rock's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with warm summers (peaking in February) and cool winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 11°C to 26°C. Abundant rainfall (1481 mm/year), wettest in March.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Very Good | 20° - 26° | 23° | 153 mm | partly cloudy | 77% | 5.2 m/s | 2.8 extreme | 13.7h |
| February | Very Good | 20° - 26° | 23° | 159 mm | partly cloudy | 78% | 5.0 m/s | 2.5 extreme | 13.0h |
| March | Very Good | 19° - 26° | 22° | 196 mm | partly cloudy | 78% | 4.8 m/s | 1.9 very high | 12.1h |
| April | Very Good | 17° - 24° | 20° | 163 mm | partly cloudy | 75% | 3.7 m/s | 1.3 high | 11.2h |
| May | Good | 15° - 22° | 18° | 152 mm | some cloud | 73% | 4.0 m/s | 0.8 moderate | 10.5h |
| June | Good | 12° - 20° | 16° | 128 mm | partly cloudy | 74% | 4.0 m/s | 0.5 moderate | 10.1h |
| July | Very Good | 11° - 19° | 15° | 74 mm | some cloud | 72% | 4.0 m/s | 0.6 moderate | 10.3h |
| August | Excellent | 11° - 19° | 15° | 53 mm | mostly sunny | 69% | 4.2 m/s | 0.9 moderate | 10.9h |
| September | Excellent | 13° - 21° | 17° | 57 mm | mostly sunny | 70% | 4.9 m/s | 1.3 high | 11.8h |
| October | Excellent | 15° - 22° | 19° | 93 mm | some cloud | 72% | 5.2 m/s | 1.8 very high | 12.7h |
| November | Very Good | 17° - 24° | 20° | 125 mm | partly cloudy | 75% | 5.1 m/s | 2.3 extreme | 13.5h |
| December | Very Good | 19° - 25° | 22° | 128 mm | partly cloudy | 75% | 5.0 m/s | 2.6 extreme | 13.9h |
How to Get to Fish Rock#
The nearest settlement and launch point is South West Rocks in Arakoon; regional centres with services include Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour.
Fish Rock is reached by boat only; local dive operators and charter skippers run day trips and dive excursions from South West Rocks, and the last stretch is best covered by one of these organised trips or by hiring a licensed charter.
Tips for Visiting Fish Rock#
- Book dives with a reputable local operator who knows the currents and entry points around the rock.
- Wear a suitable wetsuit and carry dive insurance; conditions can be cool and variable offshore.
- Check sea and weather forecasts before booking a trip, as access depends on calm conditions.
- Respect marine park rules and guidance from operators to protect wildlife and ensure safety.
- If you are not diving, ask operators about boat-based wildlife viewing options rather than attempting your own water entry.