This dive site, Lighthouse Bommie, is a magnificent coral pinnacle located off Lady Elliot Island, at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef. It's renowned for its vibrant and healthy coral formations that rise from the seabed, creating an intricate underwater landscape. Navigation is straightforward, circling the bommie to explore its diverse inhabitants and coral gardens. While there isn't a specific historical event tied to the bommie's name, its proximity to the island's lighthouse serves as a natural beacon for divers seeking an unforgettable experience.
The bommie is an ecological hotspot, teeming with an incredible variety of marine life. Divers can expect graceful encounters with green and loggerhead sea turtles, often found resting or feeding on the reef. Majestic manta rays are frequent visitors, gliding effortlessly through the water. The site is also home to vast schools of dazzling and colorful fish, including various species of reef fish, fusiliers, and parrotfish, all contributing to the 'kaleidoscope of marine life' for which the site is famous. The spectacular corals themselves host a multitude of smaller creatures, making it a rich environment for biodiversity.
The best time to visit Lighthouse Bommie for manta rays is typically during the cooler months, from May to October, though the site offers excellent diving year-round due to its protected location and consistent marine activity. The relatively shallow depths of 18 meters maximum and an average of 9 meters make it perfect for extended bottom times, ideal for photographers and those who wish to leisurely explore. Both scuba divers and freedivers will appreciate the vibrant reef and abundant animal encounters, while snorkelers can enjoy the shallower parts of the bommie's crown.
