Hi there BT's,

I have just remembered that I promised to post a review of the easiest entry points for those concerned about rocks etc on entry and exit. The previous thread has good advice, http://www.oldbonairetalk.com/newsgroup/messages/30/104264.html?1059976714

But I will add to this.I was analysing the entry points based on whether an older person(my mum)with arthritis would be able to access the area, so that is the perspective I am writing from.

Firstly, as mentioned, the steps at resorts are good. Buddy's, Sand dollar, Captain don's, Divi Flamingo (steps or shallow sand),Plaza, and Lions dive are all good.
The entry at North Belnem is just a shallow sloping sandy bottom with no rocks - really easy. Next door at batchelors beach has steps down- then a walk over big rocks- which is OK- then the entry is sloping sand.
Larry's lair has just sand, as does Salt pier.
The southern sites were sloping sand- pink beach, margate bay, Atlantis and Vista blue. These sites are easy as you park on right by the sand and don't have to walk across the bone-like coral at all.
Although the parking and beaches are rocky ( you have to walk a little way over pebble-like coral), there are patches of sand at the entry points between rocky outcrops at the invisibles, Aquaruis, alice in wonderland and the Hilma Hooker, but you have to make sure you enter at the exact right spot- just spend some time looking around. And of course you have to exit at the correct spot- otherwise you have to clamber over some jagged rocks.
I personally found the sites north of town to have less sandy entries points- although there were some. The main problem I had in the north was the wave action was quite brisk when I was there, so exits were a little more uncomfortable being pushed onto the rocks. I would avoid these if at all unsure.

I hope this helps for anyone who is concerned about entry points- it is wise to be cautious if you are a diver not used to shore entries, have a physical limitation or maybe do not want to risk injury! That being said, most of the sites are easy enough and you can see from the waters edge how big the entry channel is.

happy diving

Jacqueline

Great tips, Jacqueline. Thanks for taking the time to list these for us. Carole

Thanks for the tips Jacqueline, really good advice. We are hoping to do a lot of shore diving and although I don't mind a bit of a challenge I would prefer to take the easier route!