Big Eyes Lair - Bay of Islands

Devil’s Grotto North is one of our favourite dive sites when we’re in Grand Cayman, especially if you’re looking for something a bit different from the standard reef drift. We love the dramatic topography here, a real maze of huge coral heads sculpted with swim-throughs and chimneys. Sunlight shafts pierce the gloom, illuminating the schools of silversides that often pack the grottoes so densely you can barely see through them. It’s an immersive experience, feeling the cooler water as you duck under an archway, then emerging into the brighter open water again. Keep an eye out for the smaller critters tucked into crevices – we’ve often spotted roughhead blennies and the shy brotula here. Tarpon lurk in the shadows, unperturbed by divers. While it’s often touted for beginners, we think experienced divers will appreciate the intricate layout and the chance for some fantastic light play photography. Maximum depth is around 15 metres, so you get plenty of bottom time to explore. We’d suggest going in the morning before it gets too busy.

Location
Bay of Islands, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-35.181800, 174.316200
Type
cave

Marine Protected Area: Oke Bay

Nearby Dive Sites in Bay of Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Big Eyes Lair

Marine Life in Bay of Islands

Home to 172 recorded species including 100 reef fish, 22 sharks & rays, 11 whales & dolphins, 10 other, 6 crabs & lobsters, 4 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Big Eyes Lair, especially within the swim-through?
The typical depth range for diving at Big Eyes Lair centers around its main feature, an impressive swim-through. Divers will find the entrance to this natural tunnel at 24m, with the exit opening at 18m at its northern end. The overall maximum depth for the site is 22m, providing a varied dive profile within the Bay of Islands.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to encounter at Big Eyes Lair?
Divers at Big Eyes Lair will primarily explore an impressive 35m natural tunnel swim-through, opening into kelpy boulders at its northern end. Within this unique underwater feature, you can expect to encounter Big Eye fish, along with Scorpionfish, Bastard Cod, Moray Eels, and crayfish. Other reef fish like Maomao and Demoiselle are also commonly seen, making it a vibrant spot for marine life observation.
How challenging is the Big Eyes Lair dive site, particularly considering the swim-through, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Big Eyes Lair is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site, primarily due to its significant 35m natural tunnel swim-through. Given its overhead environment and "cave" type classification, it is generally not suitable for beginner divers. Divers should possess adequate experience and comfort with confined spaces to safely navigate this unique feature.
What is the best time of year or specific conditions recommended for diving Big Eyes Lair to ensure good visibility and a pleasant experience?
While Big Eyes Lair offers an average visibility of 15m, the provided data does not specify the best time of year or particular conditions recommended for diving. For general information on optimal diving conditions in the New Zealand region, you may consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications or special training are required or highly recommended to safely dive Big Eyes Lair, given its overhead environment?
To safely dive Big Eyes Lair, which is classified as an intermediate dive site and features a 35m natural tunnel swim-through, special training for overhead environments is highly recommended. Although it's a swim-through, its "cave" type classification implies the need for comfort and proficiency in confined spaces. Divers should possess experience beyond entry-level certifications to navigate this unique site safely.
What are the typical current conditions and exposure levels at Big Eyes Lair, and how do they impact the dive?
The provided data for Big Eyes Lair does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions or exposure levels. Therefore, we cannot detail how these factors might impact the dive experience at this particular site. Divers are advised to consult local dive operators for the most up-to-date conditions.