Julian Rocks is located about 3 km offshore from Byron Bay. The only way to access it is by boat tour. Several operators depart from Byron Bay, including Wild Byron and Sundive Byron Bay. :boat: Bookings are essential, especially during peak seasons.

Byron Bay is accessible by car, with major highways connecting it to Brisbane and Sydney. The nearest airports are Ballina Byron Gateway Airport (BNK) and Gold Coast Airport (OOL), both about an hour's drive away. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car is often recommended for flexibility. :car:

While you can see the rocky outcrops from the shore, the best experience is from the water. The iconic rock formation is visible from many beaches in Byron Bay, offering scenic views. :camerawithflash:

You don't buy tickets directly for Julian Rocks itself, as it's a marine reserve. Instead, you purchase a tour package from a dive or snorkel operator. Prices vary depending on the operator and the type of tour (snorkel or dive). :ticket:

For leopard sharks, visit during the summer months (December to May) when they gather in large numbers. Winter (June to August) is ideal for spotting humpback whales. :calendar:

Most tour operators have minimum age requirements for snorkeling and diving. For diving, it's typically 12 years old, and for snorkeling, it might be younger, often around 8 years old. Always check with your chosen operator. :child:

Tours typically include boat transport to the site, guided snorkeling or diving, and often gear rental. Some may also offer light refreshments. It's best to confirm inclusions with the operator when booking. :clipboard:

Julian Rocks is renowned for its incredible biodiversity. You can see leopard sharks, grey nurse sharks, manta rays, turtles, stingrays, and over 500 species of fish. Humpback whales are also spotted during winter. :fish_cake::turtle::whale:

Yes, it is generally very safe. Leopard sharks and grey nurse sharks are known to be docile and pose little threat to humans when respected. Tour guides ensure your safety and provide guidance on interacting with the marine life. :shield:

Water temperatures vary seasonally. Summers are warmer, typically around 22-26°C (72-79°F), making it ideal for leopard sharks. Winters can be cooler, around 18-22°C (64-72°F). Wetsuits are usually provided by tour operators. :droplet:

Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, swimwear, and a reusable water bottle. If you have your own snorkel mask, you might prefer to use it. :sunglasses::towel:

Yes, absolutely! Many visitors capture stunning underwater photos and videos. Ensure your camera is waterproof or in a waterproof case. Some tours may offer underwater camera rentals. :camerawithflash:

Julian Rocks is offshore, so there are no dining facilities there. However, Byron Bay offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and bars to enjoy before or after your marine adventure. :forkandknife:

Some tour operators may allow you to bring snacks and drinks, while others provide light refreshments. It's best to check with your specific tour provider beforehand. :water_bottle:

The underwater world offers incredible opportunities! Capture the diverse marine life, from colorful fish and corals to sharks and turtles. The dramatic rocky outcrops also make for stunning surface shots. :camerawithflash:

A waterproof camera or a waterproof housing for your smartphone or DSLR is essential. Action cameras like GoPros are very popular for their durability and ease of use underwater. :iphone::camerawithflash:

Get close to your subjects (without disturbing them!), use natural light as much as possible, and experiment with different angles. Patience is key to capturing those perfect moments. :bulb: