Diving in South Australia is packed with marine life. Jetties with thriving ecosystems are home to an assortment of critters and vibrant coral. The iconic leafy sea dragon is the main draw card of South Australia (and it's marine emblem).
Be sure to look closely on the seabed for camouflaged tasselled anglerfish and beautiful pyjama squid dancing around.
Port Jackson sharks, red rock lobster, blue ringed octopus and the weedy sea dragon are also permanent residents.
The seasonal upwelling system in South Australia plays an important role in the lifecycle of juvenile bluefin tuna which you'll often see munching on pilchard. Colonies of sea lions, little penguins and abundant blue whales and sharks are supported by these nutrient-rich waters: a treat for anyone diving in South Australia.
Temperate waters make diving in South Australia pleasant year-round. During the summer months of November-May, water temperature reaches 77°F (24°C) dipping to about 55°F (11°C) in winter.
In summer you can enjoy relaxed diving on warm, calm days; in winter the waters are crystal clear. When diving in South Australia a 7mm or semidry wetsuit will keep you comfortable in all seasons so you can spend more time underwater.
Every year between May and August, thousands of Australian giant cuttlefish aggregate in Whyalla, located on South Australia's upper Eyre Peninsula coastline for their annual ritual of mating and spawning. Divers from all over the world make the pilgrimage to see this shimmering natural wonder. This is South Australia diving at its best.
South Australia is a state in the southern central part of Australia. Adelaide, its bustling capital city, is where you'll want to be for easy access to the best diving in South Australia.
The city is easily accessed by air from many major cities. Flights from Europe connect via Hong Kong, Dubai or Kuala Lumpur. US travelers fly into New Zealand's Auckland Airport and connect to Adelaide from there. If you're traveling from within Australia, domestic flights to Adelaide from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane take 1-2h.
Alternatively, you can hire a car in Melbourne and take an eight hour road trip to Adelaide (for the most stunning scenery make sure you drive along the Great Ocean Road). A road trip rom Sydney to Adelaide is also possible but the drive is slightly longer at 14h.
Once in Adelaide, you can drive along the coast to Port Lincoln to take a day boat to the Neptune Islands: Great White central. July-October are the best months to witness these magnificent creatures.
This page wouldn't be possible without contributions from the following PADI members: Andrew Jenkins (PADI pro), Ron van der Marel (PADI pro), Whyalla Dive Shop, Adelaide Scuba. Disclaimer
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