Meet the site
Malabar is the name used for a run of protected reefs on the north coast of Lord Howe beneath Malabar Hill, stretching towards Fishy Point. Pro Dive's description of the area is of underwater plateaus and swim-throughs, archways, plate and table corals, and depths of 10–21 m, and it singles out Malabar itself for large anemones, anemonefish, extensive nudibranchs and Spanish dancers – calling it one of the best macro photography sites on the island. Howea Divers describes Malabar Reef as soft and hard coral gardens with modest drop-offs and sandy spots from 5 to 20 m, suitable for beginners.
The north coast is sheltered from the prevailing south-east trades, which makes Malabar one of Lord Howe's most dependable sites. The reef structure is volcanic rock with a strong coral cover, broken into plateaus with swim-throughs and arches cut through them. Plate and table corals spread across the tops, and the large anemones host McCulloch's anemonefish, a Lord Howe endemic.
For macro photographers the nudibranchs are the draw, and Spanish dancers – the big red nudibranch – are common enough to be a feature. Reef fish include butterflyfish, parrotfish and wrasse, and reef sharks and turtles visit. Several distinct sites along this coast are named separately by operators and in trip reports – Malabar West, Malabar Third Reef and Malabar Landslide – and are listed as their own entries here.
Because the maximum depth is only 21 m and the site is sheltered, it suits Open Water divers, refresher dives and courses, and it is a good first dive on the island. The combination of easy conditions and good macro makes it popular with photographers.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Malabar is recorded as Reef in Lord Howe Island. 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.
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.
- Water movement
- Ask how swell and local exposure affect the proposed entry, exit and route.
- Overhead environments
- Ask whether the plan stays entirely in open water. A wreck or cave listing is not permission or training to enter.
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 Malabar suitable for my certification?
The record lists Advanced 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 Malabar 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
McCulloch's anemonefish, large anemones, Spanish dancers, nudibranchs, plate and table corals, butterflyfish, parrotfish, wrasse, reef sharks, turtles
Location
A series of reefs along the north coast below Malabar Hill towards Fishy Point, with plateaus, swim-throughs and archways from 10 m to sand at 21 m.
Facilities nearby
Departure from the Lagoon Road boatsheds.
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
prodive.com.auhoweadivers.com.audiveplanit.comRecord updated 27 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.