The Honeycombs (Canal Rocks)

Meet the site

The Honeycombs are a lesser-known part of the Canal Rocks area. Marinelife.org.au describes a limestone reef - a large outcrop cut into a series of ledges and caves - in about 6 m, reached by an energetic 400 m swim north-east along the shore from the Canal Rocks boat ramp. It advises watching for boats and displaying a dive flag, and notes stingrays aggregating near the ramps.

The name reflects the pitted, cave-riddled limestone, a contrast to the granite canals nearby. Ledges and caves in shallow water shelter wrasse, bream and old wives, and western rock lobster may be found in the cracks. The shallow depth gives long bottom times, but the swim in and out needs to be factored into gas and energy planning.

The site suits fit, experienced shore divers on flat days, or divers with a small boat. It is a pleasant alternative when the main Canal Rocks reefs are too exposed, although the swim itself is exposed to swell. Published detail is limited, so depths and position are indicative.

The stingrays near the boat ramp are a bonus at the start and end of the dive; watch them from a respectful distance and do not touch or feed them.

The Capes coast between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin faces the Indian Ocean and is famous for its surf, which is exactly what makes diving here so condition-dependent. Long-period south-westerly groundswell can arrive on calm, sunny days, and the regional ocean-safety guide advises observing a site in different conditions before diving it, never diving alone and flying a flag near boat ramps.

What you might see

Western king wrasse, buffalo bream, old wife, western rock lobster, stingrays near the ramp, sponges

Location

Large limestone outcrop with a series of ledges and caves in about 6 m, a 400 m swim north-east along the shore from the Canal Rocks boat ramp.

Facilities nearby

Canal Rocks car park, boat ramp and toilets.