Meet the site
Marsh Shoal is a lightly documented reef off Coffs Harbour that Jetty Dive Centre lists among its occasional local sites, likely named after a local identity or feature in the same tradition as several other Coffs-area reefs (Black Rock, Bullocky Reef) whose names reflect local rather than official marine-park nomenclature. Depths run a moderate 12-25 m, putting it within reach of both confident Open Water divers and Advanced divers depending on which part of the shoal is dived. As with the other lesser-known local reefs in this area, marine life is typified by resident reef fish, occasional rays cruising the sand around the structure, and nudibranchs and other invertebrates in the reef's crevices, without the singular drawcards — grey nurse sharks, giant coral gardens — that define the marquee Solitary Islands sites. Its value lies mainly in providing another workable option for the operator on days when weather or diver preference calls for a shorter, closer-in trip rather than the full run out to the islands. Because Marsh Shoal is not a headline attraction, exact GPS coordinates, precise depth range and a detailed species list are not readily available in published sources, and the description here should be treated as indicative of the general character of Coffs Harbour's local reef grounds rather than a verified site report. Divers interested in this specific site should ask Jetty Dive Centre directly about its current use and condition, and should not expect the same density of grey nurse sharks or coral cover that draws most visitors to the marine park's better-known island moorings.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Marsh Shoal is recorded as Reef in Coffs Harbour & Solitary Islands. 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.
- Planned depth
- Confirm the intended route and training requirements; the recorded maximum is not a target.
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 Marsh Shoal 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 Marsh Shoal 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
Reef fish, rays, nudibranchs, sponges
Location
A reef off Coffs Harbour in 12-25 m, one of the lesser-known local dive grounds used occasionally when the Solitary Islands are unreachable.
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
jettydive.com.audivernet.comjettydive.com.auRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.