Meet the site
The Boulders is exactly what its name promises: a field of huge boulders midway along the eastern, ocean-facing side of Bowen Island. McFadyen describes the site as having plenty of nooks and crannies for fish to hide in, created by the jumble of massive rocks, with depths from about 12 m to 24 m.
The gaps and overhangs between the boulders shelter blue groper, leatherjackets, wobbegongs and schooling fish, and the rock surfaces carry sponges and encrusting growth typical of the Jervis Bay entrance. Because the site faces the open sea, visibility can be excellent when clear oceanic water is pushed against the island, and pelagic visitors such as kingfish occasionally pass by. The boulder landscape encourages slow, meandering exploration rather than a fixed route.
McFadyen rates it suitable for both beginners and experienced divers: the depth range is moderate and the site is easy to navigate by keeping the island on one side. Its exposure is the main limitation – the eastern face of Bowen Island takes easterly and south-easterly swell directly, so it is dived on calm days or in westerly weather. It is less documented than the corners of the island, so detail here is drawn from a brief description plus the general character of Bowen Island reefs; confidence is moderate. The waters are within Booderee National Park and a sanctuary zone, and landing on Bowen Island is not permitted. It is often paired with the more sheltered North Bowen Island or The Nursery as a second dive, allowing divers to compare the ocean face with the protected inner corner of the island in a single 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.
The Boulders (Bowen Island) is recorded as Reef in Jervis Bay. 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.
- Water movement
- Ask how swell and local exposure affect the proposed entry, exit and route.
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 The Boulders (Bowen Island) 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 The Boulders (Bowen Island) 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
Blue groper, leatherjackets, wobbegongs, yellowtail, silver sweep, kingfish (occasional), sponges
Location
Huge boulders with nooks and crannies midway along the eastern (ocean) side of Bowen Island, 12–24 m.
Facilities nearby
Departure from Huskisson (Dive Jervis Bay shop, air/nitrox, cafés) or Murrays Beach ramp in Booderee National Park (toilets, parking; park entry pass required).
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
michaelmcfadyenscuba.infoRecord updated 27 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.