Meet the site
The Kingscote Tyre Reef is one of South Australia's early artificial fishing reefs, listed in the Scuba Divers Federation of SA's artificial reef inventory as 'Kingscote (Tyre module) Artificial Reef', with coordinates published in the state's Marine Scalefish Fishery user guide. Like other tyre reefs built in SA, it consists of groupings of old tyres, cleaned of oil and contaminants, placed on the sand to create habitat and attract fish.
Little diver-specific information exists. Tyre reefs of this era were designed for anglers rather than divers, and the structures are low and relatively small. Over the decades they tend to become covered in sponges, ascidians and algae and attract schools of fish such as old wives, leatherjackets, snapper and whiting, along with crabs and octopus in the crevices. Visibility in Nepean Bay is usually moderate, and the bay is sheltered from the prevailing swell, so the reef is diveable on most days when you have a boat.
There is some debate across Australia about tyre reefs – some have broken up or failed to colonise – so its current condition is unknown. Divers who visit should record what they find and share it with the SDFSA or local dive shop. The site suits curious boat divers looking for something different near Kingscote and anyone interested in artificial reef history; it is unlikely to be a highlight of a Kangaroo Island trip compared with the jetty, the north-coast reefs or the wrecks. Carry a reel for the search pattern and a surface marker, as anglers fish the site.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Kingscote Tyre Reef is recorded as Artificial Reef in Kangaroo Island. The listed access is boat. 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.
- Other water users
- Ask about vessel activity, exclusion areas and the agreed surface arrangements.
- Lines and obstructions
- Discuss any known entanglement concerns and the suitability of the planned area.
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 Kingscote Tyre Reef 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 Kingscote Tyre Reef 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
Likely: old wives, leatherjackets, snapper, whiting, sponges, ascidians, crabs, octopus (condition unverified)
Location
A tyre-module artificial fishing reef in Nepean Bay off Kingscote, listed in SA's artificial reef inventory (approx. 35.685°S 137.671°E).
Facilities nearby
Kingscote boat ramp, parking and toilets.
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
sdfsa.netbonzle.comRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.