Caits Reef

Best months: Jul–Nov

Why dive here

With 231+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda, blacktip reef sharks, blue sharks, grey reef sharks and manta rays - Caits Reef offers some of Cocos (Keeling) Islands's richest drift diving. Water ranges 27-29°C, warmest January, February, March.

Best timeJul–Nov

WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit

Marine lifeBarracuda, Blacktip Reef Sharks, Blue Sharks, Grey Reef Sharks and Manta Rays · 231+ species recorded

Water27-29°C · warmest January, February, March

CharacterDrift dive

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

Caits Reef is our absolute favourite spot for easing into Cocos diving, especially if you're new to the island's unique rhythms or even just getting your fins wet as an Open Water student. We love that gentle sandy bottom, a perfect reassurance as you fin out. Keep your eyes peeled for those blacktip reef sharks, often gliding past with a quiet confidence that's infectious. It's a shallow dive, maxing out around 7 metres, making it incredibly relaxed. Visibility usually hovers around 10 metres, which feels ample when you're exploring the branching staghorn corals or spotting a curious common octopus tucked into a crevice. You’ll see plenty of Blue Surgeonfish darting around, and if you’re lucky, a big Bumphead Parrotfish might cruise by, completely unfazed by your presence. We always suggest taking your time here; it's not about big pelagics, but about the intricate details and the sheer joy of easy, unhurried exploration.