Meet the site
Pot Holes is one of the snorkel sites named in the Lord Howe Island pocket guide, which lists bluefish and coral there.
The name suggests holes in the lagoon reef similar to Erscott's Hole and Comet's Hole – sand-floored pools ringed by coral that concentrate fish. The Lord Howe Island bluefish, a striking blue-grey reef fish characteristic of the island and nearby reefs, is common at those sites, and Spacifica lists it first at Erscott's Hole. If Pot Holes is similar, snorkellers can expect coral walls with bluefish, doubleheader wrasse and other lagoon species.
The lagoon is protected by the barrier reef and is snorkelled in almost all weather; strong westerlies make it choppy. Most lagoon holes are near the barrier reef and are best reached by snorkel boat, though kayaks can be used on calm days. Mid to high tide is best, with more water over the coral.
Ask at the visitor centre or the Lagoon Road boatsheds for directions and current conditions. The usual rules apply: wear footwear when wading, keep off the coral, respect sanctuary zones and remember that the sites are unpatrolled. Snorkel operators on Lagoon Road run daily lagoon trips and are the best people to ask, as they know the local names for every reef and hole in the lagoon.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Pot Holes 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.
- Current and timing
- Ask how the operator assesses the current window for the actual route. Historical tide notes are not a departure instruction.
- Other water users
- Ask about vessel activity, exclusion areas and the agreed surface arrangements.
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 Pot Holes 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 Pot Holes 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
Lord Howe Island bluefish, coral
Location
A snorkel site listed in the Lord Howe Island pocket guide for bluefish and coral; location not published.
Facilities nearby
Boatsheds on Lagoon Road with gear, kayak and SUP hire; toilets and cafes near Lagoon Beach.
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
lordhoweisland.infospacificatravel.comRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.