Meet the site
Stephens Hole appears in two operator lists: Islander Cruises names 'Stephen's Hole' among its southern sanctuary zone snorkel sites, and Pinetrees Lodge lists 'Stephensons Hole' among the boat-access snorkel sites.
The name places it in the same family as Erscott's Hole and Comet's Hole – sand-floored pools in the lagoon ringed by coral – and those neighbours give an idea of what to expect. Holes like these concentrate fish, and the southern sanctuary zone is described by Islander Cruises as having the greatest diversity of coral and fish in the lagoon. Typical species at nearby holes include Lord Howe Island bluefish, doubleheader wrasse, McCulloch's anemonefish, three-striped butterflyfish, spangled emperor, catfish and damsels, with turtles and rays passing through.
The lagoon is protected by the barrier reef and is suitable for snorkelling in almost all weather, and a guided boat is the practical way to reach the holes near the reef. It suits snorkellers of all abilities, and divers could explore it if the depth allows.
As a sanctuary zone, fishing and collecting are prohibited, and boats use moorings rather than anchoring. Keep off the coral and avoid stirring the sand, which reduces visibility for everyone. Confirm the location and depth with the operator before planning a visit. Kayaking out independently is possible in calm weather, but the holes lie close to the barrier reef, where the water can be rough and currents run through the passages, so a guided boat is safer and far easier. It is best combined with Erscott's Hole or Comet's Hole on the same trip.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Stephens Hole 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 Stephens Hole 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 Stephens Hole 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
Likely as for nearby lagoon holes: bluefish, doubleheader wrasse, McCulloch's anemonefish, butterflyfish, turtles
Location
A lagoon hole in the southern sanctuary zone visited by snorkel boats.
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
islandercruises.com.aupinetrees.com.auRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.