Meet the site
The Cod Hole is a compact but distinctive site off Port Macquarie built around two bommies connected by a natural rock arch, the two peaks rising to about ten and six metres respectively from a base around eighteen metres — a manageable depth range that keeps the site accessible while still offering genuine topographic interest in the arch connecting the two formations. Despite the name, this is more a macro and photography site than a big-fish destination, its main drawcard being the dense covering of soft corals and sponges across both bommies, which in turn supports an excellent range of nudibranchs for divers willing to look closely. Wobbegongs are a reliable resident here, typically found resting in the open on the bommie tops or tucked into the arch itself, and the connecting swim-through gives divers a satisfying sense of structure and route within what is otherwise a fairly compact site that can be thoroughly explored within a single tank. Because of its manageable depth and interesting but non-technical topography, the Cod Hole is a popular choice for Scuba Haven's regular Port Macquarie boat schedule, often paired with Bird Rock or a similar nearby site to make up a two-dive day. It is a good representative example of the kind of solid, moderate-depth reef diving available close to Port Macquarie without needing the longer run out to Cod Grounds or the Camden Haven pinnacle cluster. It is a good example of how a small, unassuming site can still deliver a genuinely satisfying dive when the topography and resident life line up this well.
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 Cod Hole (Port Macquarie) is recorded as Pinnacle/Bommie in Port Macquarie & Camden Haven. 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.
- 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 The Cod Hole (Port Macquarie) suitable for my certification?
The record lists 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 Cod Hole (Port Macquarie) 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
Wobbegong sharks, soft corals, sponges, nudibranchs, general reef fish
Location
Two bommies off Port Macquarie connected by a natural arch, at around 18 m, popular for macro photography with wobbegongs, soft corals and sponges.
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
mudgeediveandtravel.comRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.