The three sites
The Steps is the standout Kurnell dive and one of the most reliable places to find weedy sea dragons, on the sand at 12 to 15 metres. A long, steep staircase down the cliff is the price of entry.
The Leap is a drift dive from a rock shelf at the foot of a narrow track. You drop to around 22 metres among bommies, then drift and exit at The Steps.
The Monument is a very easy, relaxed dive inside the bay, with one of the easiest entries around and a wall with overhangs. On an outgoing tide it can be done as a drift around Sutherland Point towards The Steps.
Conditions
The Steps faces the tidal flow in and out of Botany Bay, so the current can be strong: dive it at slack water. The Monument is inside the bay, sheltered from the waves, though the visibility can be lower there. Each site guide has the details.
Dive it with us
Sydney shore dives
Guided shore dives in the Eastern Suburbs, Kurnell and at Shelly Beach, Manly.
See the tripWhere it is
Nearby sites
- Shore dive · La Perouse Bare IslandBare Island juts out from the mainland at La Perouse and is reached on foot along a long wooden walkway. Several dives are possible around the island, so it rewards repeat visits.20 m
- Shore dive · Shellharbour Bushrangers BayOne of the South Coast’s most popular shore dives, at Bass Point Reserve near Shellharbour, about 90 minutes south of Sydney. Easy access, sheltered water and grey nurse sharks make the drive worth it.18 m
- Shore dive · Watsons Bay Camp CoveAn easy shore dive from the beach at Watsons Bay, inside Sydney Harbour. A shallow wall with swim-throughs and overhangs makes it a relaxed dive for any certified diver.19 m
- Shore dive · Clovelly Gordon’s BayA calm, sheltered bay just north of Coogee, protected by an offshore reef. Easy entry and an underwater nature trail make it a favourite for new divers and night dives.14 m
