Crystal Pool is a rock pool and shallow rocky reef in Point Ross Reserve on Norfolk Island's south-west coast. Oceanatik describes it as 'one of the best dives on Norfolk' despite a maximum depth of only 6 m, with rock formations, a few corals and a large variety of marine life, all covered in algae. Norfolk's tourism body calls it a stunning location that requires local guidance for safe access and is tide-dependent.

The name reflects the water clarity: Oceanatik gives visibility of 15–45 m, and in a small, sheltered pool that means the whole structure is visible at once. The rock formations and boulders create hiding places, and the fish life is dense for such a small area. Oceanatik does not list species, but Norfolk's shallow reefs support wrasses, cardinalfish, marblefish, morays, damsels and a mix of subtropical reef fish, several of them endemic to the region.

The catch is the exposure. Oceanatik warns that the site is subject to large swells because of its location, and waves can wash over the rock shelf and into the pool. That, together with the walk-in over rocks and the tide dependence, is why local guidance is recommended. Divers carrying scuba gear over the rocks need to be sure-footed.

It suits snorkellers and divers of any certification level on the right day, but conditions rather than skill are the limiting factor. The coordinates given are approximate for Point Ross.

Norfolk Island is about 1,450 km east of Brisbane; flights run from Sydney and Brisbane (about 2.5 h; check the current carrier). A hire car is essential. Crystal Pool is in Point Ross Reserve on the south-west coast, reached by road from Burnt Pine towards Point Ross and a short walk across the reserve and down onto the rocks.

The route down is over rock and the entry depends on tide and swell, so the tourism body recommends going with local guidance – ask at the Visitor Information Centre in Burnt Pine. Carry gear in; there are no facilities.

Crystal Pool is on the exposed south-west coast and, as Oceanatik warns, is subject to large swells. It is suitable only on calm days with little or no southerly or westerly swell, and access is tide-dependent – ask locally for the right tide. Waves washing over the rock shelf make it dangerous.

Visibility is 15–40 m when calm. Winter south-easterlies and westerly swells often rule it out.

With local guidance, enter the pool at the recommended tide and snorkel or dive among the rock formations to about 6 m. Keep an eye on the swell and exit well before conditions change.

No operator needed but local guidance recommended; Norfolk Island Diving can guide shore dives; ask at the Visitor Information Centre for conditions.