www.qld.gov.au · Official
Queensland guidance on grey nurse shark protection and diver interactions.
Nurse Rock
Twin-rock Sunshine Coast reef with swim-throughs and winter sharks.
Scuba DivingBoatIntermediate14m - 22m
Pinnacle
Local operator required
Most divers visit Nurse Rock on local reef charters departing from The Wharf at Mooloolaba.
Short-run boat dive off Mooloolaba with boulders, narrow tunnels, and outer-reef exposure, usually planned around sea state and diver comfort with overhead features.
About Nurse Rock
Nurse Rock is a Sunshine Coast outer-reef site formed by two large rock stacks split by a fish-filled canyon, with a pair of tight swim-throughs at the base adding the site's signature feature. It is dived for rocky structure, resident cod, wobbegongs, eels, rays, and the seasonal arrival of grey nurse sharks in winter, making it one of Mooloolaba's more memorable local reef options.
Safety & Access
Site Conditions
Overhead environmentDangerous wildlife
Safety Notes
Includes tight swim-through tunnels; ensure appropriate training and comfort with overhead environments. Grey nurse sharks may be encountered in winter.
Access Restrictions
Access is by charter boat from Mooloolaba and the site is only dived when sea conditions are suitable for the outer local reefs.
Legal Notes
Grey nurse sharks are protected in Queensland waters, so divers should follow briefings carefully, avoid harassing wildlife, and respect all local marine-life rules.
Where Is Nurse Rock?
Featured Operators
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Local Intel For Nurse Rock
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
Two tight swim-through tunnels at the base of the rocks create an overhead-style passage.
Freediving
Freedivers with boat support can enjoy the rock split and upper structure in calm conditions, but the site's main appeal is still scuba exploration of the deeper boulders and tunnels.
Snorkeling
Nurse Rock is not a typical casual snorkel site because it is reached by boat and the main features sit below the surface around a more exposed outer reef.
Wildlife at Nurse Rock
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Research Estimate At Nurse Rock
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
Avg. Visibility11m
Access4/5 · Simple entry
Aquatic Life4/5 · Great variety
Facilities3/5 · Basic facilities
