Dive in Great Barrier Reef

Ribbon Reefs: Pixie Gardens

A macro photographer's delight, Pixie Gardens is located to the south west of ribbon reef #10. It's a combination of large and small bommies, set away from the main reef. A descent down the reef usually starts from the permanent moorings located at a dept of 8m.

The main attractions of Pixie Gardens are the resident leafy scorpion fish. These only grow to about 10cm and are true masters of disguise. Their camouflage is so good, you could be looking right at one and still not notice them. Their compressed bodies can range from white through pink and reds to green.

The best spot to catch a glimpse of one of these illusive creatures is the smaller bommie located behind the bigger bommie that you will encounter when heading north along the wall starting from the bottom of the mooring line. Up to 3 leafy scorpion fish can be found on the bommie at 1 time.

Not a very deep dive site, Pixie Gardens' best bommies are located at 15m or shallower. The bommies all have many nooks and crannies well worth investigating for the treasures of marine critters they harbour.

There are also a few gullies and canyons leading from the sandy floor up into the main reef, and these are worth exploring for the marine life to be found in them.

Pixie Gardens Reef Basics: Coal bommies
Depth: 5 - 20m
Visibility: 15 - 20m
Currents: None - gentle
Surface conditions: Usually calm
Water temperature: 25 - 30°C
Experience level: Beginner
Number of dive sites: 1
Diving season: All year round
Distance: 170km north east of Port Douglas
Access: Australia liveaboards

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