Meet the site
Langton Island is one of the islands of the Sir Joseph Banks Group, and the Marine Life Society singles it out for its Australian sea lion colony, noting that the animals will regularly swim with divers in about 2 m. Australian sea lions are endangered and found only in South and Western Australia, with most of the population in South Australian colonies like those of the Sir Joseph Banks Group. They are highly social and curious in the water, and juveniles in particular approach divers and snorkellers closely, twisting, somersaulting and blowing bubbles. Diving in 2 m means excellent light and long bottom times, and snorkellers can share much of the experience. Unlike the commercial sea lion swims at Hopkins Island off Port Lincoln or Baird Bay on the west coast, there is no regular tour here, so encounters are for private boat owners and occasional charters. That means responsibility for good behaviour falls on the visitors: keep a respectful distance from haul-outs, never land, let the animals initiate contact, and leave if they show stress. Breeding islands are protected, and sea lion colonies attract white sharks. Langton Island suits snorkellers and relaxed divers who want an uncrowded sea lion encounter and have a boat. Combine it with Spilsby and Stickney islands. Summer and autumn, when young animals are active and the weather is more settled, are generally the best times to try.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Langton Island Sea Lions is recorded as Island in Eyre Peninsula. The listed access is boat (day trip). Confirm the actual meeting point, route and permission to visit; a map pin does not establish any of these.
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 Langton Island Sea Lions suitable for my certification?
The record lists Snorkel/Any. 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 Langton Island Sea Lions 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
Australian sea lions (endangered), seabirds, kelp and seagrass fauna
Location
Island in the Sir Joseph Banks Group with an Australian sea lion colony whose animals regularly swim with divers in about 2 m.
Facilities nearby
None; Tumby Bay services.
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 27 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.