The Fireplace is on the eastern side of Duncombe Bay on Norfolk's north coast and takes its name from distinct rock formations. Oceanatik describes shore-entry diving to 20 m with visibility of 10–30 m, vibrant coral and abundant marine life, and notes that the water around the rock structures is calmer than directly along them. It rates the site for experienced divers.

The formations presumably resemble a fireplace or hearth – a common kind of name on Norfolk's volcanic coast, where erosion carves arches, chimneys and alcoves into the basalt. Rock formations that reach the surface create surge and turbulence close in, which is why the calmer water is around rather than on them, and why the site is rated for experienced divers.

The surrounding reef has coral cover and the fish typical of the north coast. Oceanatik does not list species, but Norfolk's reef fauna includes butterflyfish, wrasse, parrotfish, anemonefish, sweep, groper, morwong, rock cod, moray eels and emperors, with kingfish and trevally around structures and turtles regularly seen.

The north coast is in the lee of the prevailing south-east trades, so the Fireplace is often diveable when the south coast is rough, but it closes in northerly swell. Oceanatik lists it as a shore entry, although reaching the eastern side of Duncombe Bay on foot with gear is not straightforward and a boat from Cascade Pier is the practical option. The exact position is not published; the coordinates here are approximate. It suits Advanced divers who are comfortable near surging rock.

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. Norfolk has no harbour: Norfolk Island Diving's open boat is lowered by crane from Kingston Pier (south coast) or Cascade Pier (north-east coast), whichever is in the lee of the day's wind, and divers board from the pier steps once it is in the water.

North-coast sites are normally reached from Cascade Pier (end of Cascade Road, about 10 minutes' drive from Burnt Pine): the boat runs north-west along the cliffs to the Duncombe Bay area below the Captain Cook Monument, roughly 15–25 minutes. The coast here is within or beside Norfolk Island National Park.

Norfolk's north coast, from Duncombe Bay west to Anson Bay, is in the lee of the prevailing south-east trade winds, so it is the most reliable part of the island for much of the year. It is exposed to northerly and north-westerly winds and swell, more common in summer, which break on the cliffs and pinnacles and cause strong surge. Anything over about 1.5 m of northerly swell closes the boat sites; the beaches need a flat day.

Visibility is typically 15–45 m and often best in winter. There is no stinger season.

Descend near the rock formations but stay in the calmer water around them rather than on them. Circle the formations at 12–20 m, checking crevices for fish, and return to the boat or exit point with ample reserve.

Norfolk Island Diving (local instructor James and divemaster Mitch Graham) – small open boat craned in at Kingston or Cascade Pier depending on wind; runs part-time, mostly weekends, so book ahead by email (norfolkislanddiving@gmail.com).