Marino Rocks is one of the Scuba Divers Federation's listed Adelaide metro shore and jetty dives, on the rocky stretch of coast between Kingston Park and Hallett Cove. Unlike the sandy beaches further north, this part of the coast is cut into low cliffs and rock platforms of ancient folded rock, which continue underwater as boulders, ledges and gutters before giving way to sand and seagrass. No detailed published dive guide for Marino Rocks was found, so this description is based on the Federation's listing and the known geography.

Divers can expect a shallow reef dive in 3-8 m with brown algae and kelp on the rock tops, sponges and ascidians in shaded crevices, and typical gulf reef fish – old wives, magpie perch, zebrafish, wrasse, leatherjackets and blue devils – along with crabs and nudibranchs. The nearby Marino Conservation Park protects the coastal cliffs above. The appeal is having a rocky shore dive within the suburbs, a quiet alternative to the busier Port Noarlunga.

The drawback is exposure: like the whole metro coast, Marino faces west and is only diveable in calm conditions, and entry over rock needs more care than a beach or jetty. This site suits experienced shore divers comfortable with rock entries, and snorkellers on flat days. Divers are encouraged to scout the entry at low tide, and to share observations with the Federation so the local record can be expanded.

Snorkelling the edge first on a flat day is a sensible way to find the best entry and see whether the reef justifies carrying tanks down the path.

Drive south from Adelaide on Brighton Road to Marino (about 25 minutes). Street parking is available off the Esplanade/Jervois Terrace area near Marino Rocks and the Marino Rocks railway station. Paths and steps lead down the low cliff to the rock platform; entry is over rock, so pick a spot where you can enter and exit without climbing, and plan the exit before getting in.

Carry gear down in stages – the walk is short but steep.

Exposed west-facing rocky coast: any westerly or south-westerly swell makes rock entries and exits dangerous and stirs up the water. Dive only on flat days after easterly winds, ideally mornings before the summer sea breeze. Tides are small, but low tide exposes more rock and can make exits awkward.

Rain brings runoff and reduced visibility.

Enter from the rock platform at a sheltered gap, follow the reef edge along the shore at 3-7 m, turn at half gas and return to the same exit point.

No regular operator; listed by SDFSA as a metro shore dive.