Meet the site
Kilcarnup is a remote shore site north of Prevelly on the Margaret River coast. Marinelife.org.au describes a 6 m, heavily limestone reef with a variety of fish and marine life: inshore, blue devilfish, old wives, scalyfin and wrasse; further offshore, morwong, groper and buffalo bream. Access requires a 4WD and a steep 50 m walking track to the water. It has some protection from westerly weather, visibility improves after calm conditions, and it is good for a snorkel or night dive.
The limestone reef provides ledges and holes for fish, and the relative shelter makes it one of the more diveable spots on this stretch of coast. The remoteness means few visitors, and the fish are unpressured.
It suits experienced, self-sufficient shore divers and snorkellers with a 4WD, and it is one of the few Margaret River sites described as suitable for night diving. Carrying scuba gear down and up the steep track is the main challenge; many visitors snorkel instead.
Published detail is limited, so the position and depths are indicative. Check 4WD track conditions and national park access rules before visiting.
The Capes coast between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin faces the Indian Ocean and is famous for its surf, which is exactly what makes diving here so condition-dependent. Long-period south-westerly groundswell can arrive on calm, sunny days, and the regional ocean-safety guide advises observing a site in different conditions before diving it, never diving alone and flying a flag near boat ramps. Go with a local if possible.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Kilcarnup is recorded as Shore/Rock Platform in Margaret River & Augusta. The listed access is shore. Confirm the actual meeting point, route and permission to visit; a map pin does not establish any of these.
Topics flagged by the stored research
These are questions prompted by the existing notes, not a verified or complete hazard assessment.
- Water movement
- Ask how swell and local exposure affect the proposed entry, exit and route.
Historical access notes exist for this record, but have not been independently verified for current use. Request current directions from the operator or site manager rather than following an old entry description.
Questions, answered
Is Kilcarnup suitable for my certification?
The record lists Open Water. That does not establish suitability for every route or day. Share your training, recent experience and equipment needs with the operator and ask about the specific proposed dive.
Can I book Kilcarnup through YouDive?
YouDive is an independent research directory. Contact an operator directly to confirm whether it currently runs the trip, the inclusions and the booking terms.
What you might see
Western blue devil, old wife, scalyfin, western king wrasse, morwong, western blue groper, buffalo bream
Location
Heavily limestone reef in about 6 m at Kilcarnup, north of the Margaret River mouth, reached by 4WD and a steep 50 m track.
Facilities nearby
None - remote national park site.
Before you make plans
Conditions, access and operator schedules can change. This is a location guide, not a dive plan. Ask a local operator about current conditions and suitability for your training and experience.
Sources & further reading
marinelife.org.auRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.
