Celestes

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 - Celestes offers some of Cocos (Keeling) Islands's richest reef 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

CharacterReef dive

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

Celestes is one of our go-to spots when the current picks up elsewhere. It’s tucked away on the eastern side, and while it might not always have the big pelagic action of some other Cocos sites, it delivers a really enjoyable dive every time. The hard coral here, especially the Starflower and Pavona, forms these sprawling landscapes, and we love drifting over them. Keep an eye out for the Trumpet fish blending in, or the peppered squirrelfish darting into crevices. We’ve had incredible luck spotting the High Hat Triplefin here too, little bursts of colour on the reef. Visibility usually holds at around 35m, which is just glorious. You’ll often find schools of Indian triggers and pyramid butterflyfish shimmering against the blue. It’s a site that rewards a slower pace, letting you really appreciate the smaller things – the Fat-handed snapping shrimp, the Blue Green Chromis flitting about. If you’re into macro life or just want a relaxing, beautiful dive without fighting a ripping current, Celestes is our pick, particularly in the summer months. It’s a genuinely pretty dive, ideal for anyone who enjoys a peaceful drift over healthy reef.