Chill Freediving Vibes: 5 Beginner Spots in Aus That Aren’t Tourist Traps

Reece Messina
2025-05-04T11:05:35+10:00

New to freediving? Wanna vibe underwater without crowds or stress?
Let’s ditch the busy reefs and Insta-swarms — here are 5 beginner-friendly freediving spots in Australia where you can float, breathe, and explore in peace.

Whether you’re just learning how to hold your breath longer or want to snap a few underwater shots for the feed, these spots hit different — crystal-clear waters, epic marine life, and no chaos.

1. Jervis Bay, NSW

📍 South coast calm + white sand for days

This spot’s a dream. The water is stupid-clear, the beach is iconic, and you can literally walk into chill freediving zones. Perfect for breathwork practice and mellow duck dives.

Vibe: Relaxed bays, zero swell

Depth: 2–8m

Cool stuff to spot: Rays, dolphins, cuttlefish

Best time: Summer to early autumn

Pro tip: Hit Murrays Beach early morning — you’ll feel like you own the ocean.

2. Port Noarlunga Reef, SA

📍 Adelaide’s local legend with reef access from the jetty

No boat needed. Walk off the jetty, and you’re in a protected zone with loads of fish and color. If you're just getting comfy underwater, this is your training ground.

Vibe: Super accessible + safe

Depth: 1–5m

Marine glow-up: Zebra fish, octopus, sea stars

Best time: Spring and summer

Feels like a freediver’s playground.

3. Coral Bay, WA

📍 Lowkey Ningaloo vibes, minus the tourist rush

Coral Bay is magic. You can glide straight off the sand into warm, clear waters packed with coral and fish. And it's way more chill than Exmouth.

Vibe: Peaceful coral gardens

Depth: 2–10m

Spotted here: Reef sharks, turtles, huge clams

Best time: May to October

Like swimming through a real-life screensaver.

4. Julian Rocks, Byron Bay, NSW

📍 Byron’s underwater temple of chill

Just a short boat ride and boom — marine sanctuary heaven. You’ll spot everything from rays to wobbegongs, and the shallow sections are beginner-friendly if you’re feeling bold.

Vibe: Sanctuary + soft adventure

Depth: 5–10m

What’s down there: Turtles, rays, schools of fish

Best time: Summer (manta season 👀)

Float. Breathe. Flow.

5. Rottnest Island, WA

📍 Just off Perth, but feels like another world

Everyone talks about quokkas — but under the water? Next level. Rotto’s north side is full of hidden bays where you can float around solo or with your crew and explore reefy nooks.

Vibe: Chill summer island energy

Depth: 3–8m

Sea life flex: Crayfish, sea urchins, bait balls

Best time: December to March

Grab your gear, jump the ferry, and dive in.

First-Timer Tips That Actually Help:

Don’t dive solo. Always have a buddy (even if they’re just there for the photos 😅)

Chill breathing > deep breathing. Stay calm.

Use soft fins + low-volume masks for smooth dives

Don’t chase depth. Chase vibes.