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.
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.