Bare Island

Bare Island Fort

Bare Island was part of the traditional lands of the Gweagal and Kameygal Aboriginal peoples. On January 31, 1770, Captain Cook gained his first view of the Bare Island region, which he referred to in his journal as "a small bare island."

In 1885, British members of society were concerned that Russia would attack. To allay their fears, they constructed Bare Island Fort to defend Botany Bay (then known as 'Sydney's back door'). Since then, Kamay Botany Bay National Park's historic site of Bare Island Fort has had a fascinating history. The location was memorialized in the movie Mission Impossible 2 as the Virus Factory, which is wonderfully forgettable. Take this guided tour to learn the spectacular history of the small dbare island and the Bare Island Fort, which is generally stored by NSW National Park Services.

Scuba Diving At Bare Island

Bare Island is a great place to dive, with something for everyone. The island's east side generally has better visibility and is more suitable for beginner divers. The west side of the island may not have as good visibility, but it makes up for it with an abundance of aquatic life. No matter which side you dive to, you're sure to have a great time!

Entering Points When Diving Bare Island

 There are a few different ways to enter the water when scuba diving around Bare Island. The more experienced can attempt to circumnavigate the entire island or enter on the far side of the island, walking around the outer wall of the Bare Island fort to explore the deeper waters of the southwestern side.

 Beginners generally enter at the boat ramp on the island to the right of the wooden bridge.

The other popular entry point is on the La Perouse side. Just before the start of the wooden bridge is a pathway that leads off to the left, it's a rocky path, and you must be careful when walking along here.

Whatever method you choose, be sure to take caution and be aware of your surroundings. Make sure you are familiar with the area before diving in, and always heed the advice of experienced divers.

The Bare Island Dives

Unless a big southeasterly (southerly) wave is running, the Eastern side of Bare Island is generally dived. Because Bare Island is so adaptable, it makes for an excellent scuba diving location; if one side of the small island itself is too dangerous, the opposite side will almost always be accessible. The night at Bare Island diving here is fantastic on the eastern side.

 The island's eastern side is usually more visible since it is closer to the open ocean. On this side of the island, navigation isn't too difficult because the reef generally runs north-south. You swim in a southerly direction until you come to a few little overhangs, at which point you'll want a flashlight.

 If you're looking to dive on the island's western side, you can hug the main reef. This rocky wall gradually turns around the island's western side and is home to hundreds of Port Jackson sharks in winter. Following it around will get you to depths of about 18 meters.

Bare Island Dive Site

The Marine Life of Botany Bay

Botany Bay is home to a wide variety of marine life, including the Sea Dragons, Port Jackson Shark, Red Indian Fish and Blue Groper.

Sea Dragons are a type of seahorse that can be found in the shallow waters of Botany Bay. These creatures are well-camouflaged and can be very difficult to spot. If you're lucky enough to see one, you'll be treated to a sight that is truly unique.

The Port Jackson Shark is a common inhabitant of the waters around Botany Bay. These sharks are relatively small, reaching a maximum length of about 1.5 meters.

The Red Indian fish can is at ease in the sponge gardens encircling Bare Island. It blends in well and is sometimes hard to detect in the sponge gardens, but it is easy to spot if you have been looking for it.

The Eastern Blue Groper is a type of fish that is found in the deeper waters of Botany Bay. These fish are very beautiful and can reach lengths of up to 1 meter. They are not considered to be dangerous to humans but should still be avoided if possible.

These are just a few of the many different types of marine life that can be found in Botany Bay. So, whether you're an experienced diver or a beginner, there's sure to be something for you to see and enjoy!

The Best Time To Dive Bare Island

The best time to dive at La Perouse is when there is a north swell and incoming tide, as the ocean is flat and the visibility is clearer. The water is also clearer at this time because the runoff into Botany Bay minimized by the incoming tide. However, it can be dangerous to dive Bare Island when there is a southerly swell greater than 1.2m.

Bare Island Snorkelling

For those who are not experienced divers, snorkelling at Bare Island is a great alternative. The waters around the island are relatively shallow and calm, making it perfect for snorkellers to explore the underwater world. You can see a variety of marine life here, including blue gropers, sea urchins, and even small octopuses.

If you're planning on snorkelling at Bare Island, make sure to bring your own equipment or rent it from a nearby dive shop. It's important to always have someone watching over you while you're in the water and never stray too far from the shore.

What Divers Say About Scuba Diving Bare Island