This dive site, Flat Rock - Turtle Cave, is located on the northern side of Flat Rock, a renowned diving location off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The site is characterized by a small cave at a depth of 10 meters and a vibrant reef system that slopes down. While no specific historical events are mentioned for Turtle Cave itself, Flat Rock is a well-established dive destination known for its diverse marine life. Divers can experience drift diving around the edges of Flat Rock, allowing for exploration of a significant area and encounters with large pelagic species.
The marine biodiversity at Turtle Cave is exceptional, making it a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts. Divers are frequently treated to sightings of large pelagic life, including impressive grey nurse sharks, graceful eagle rays, and powerful whaler sharks. During migration season, humpback whales are a major highlight. Resident green turtles, groupers, and barracuda are common, alongside immense schools of both tropical and sub-tropical fish. The site also offers delights for macro enthusiasts, with various nudibranch species found amongst the reef's rich invertebrate life and corals.
The best time to visit Flat Rock - Turtle Cave is often during the cooler months (May to November) to witness the annual humpback whale migration. Grey nurse sharks are frequently present year-round, with aggregations in specific seasons. Due to its "all levels" suitability, both beginners and experienced divers can enjoy this site. Freedivers will find the shallow cave and reef top (average 10m) highly rewarding, though the deeper reef to 21m offers more scope for experienced breath-hold divers. Drifting conditions require good buoyancy control.
