Double Cove Marine Reserve - Kaikōura

Isla Frijoles is one of our favourite spots in Coiba, primarily because it delivers on both the small stuff and the big picture. We often do it as a drift, letting the current carry us around the island's rocky base. The reef drops to a sandy bottom around 21 metres, where we've spent many dives scanning for a passing shark, often a white-tip reef shark cruising past. Look closer, though, and you'll find plenty to hold your attention. We’ve spotted everything from the intricate patterns of a masked moray peering from a crevice to the unusual shape of a dusky flounder blending into the sand. We love how the schools of snapper and jack swirl in the blue, sometimes so thick the light dims for a second. Our tip? After you've watched the larger fish, spend some time exploring the corals for scorpionfish or a well-camouflaged frogfish. Visibility averages about 15 metres, which is decent enough to appreciate the scale of the fish groupings. Isla Frijoles is a solid dive for those who enjoy a gentle drift and appreciate both pelagic encounters and finding hidden reef critters.

Location
Kaikōura, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-41.233700, 174.015300
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Te Mahia

Best Time to Dive in Kaikōura

The warmest water temperatures in Kaikōura occur in February, averaging 18.4°C. The coolest conditions are in September at 13.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 18.1°C
  • February: 18.4°C
  • March: 18.1°C
  • April: 17.0°C
  • May: 15.8°C
  • June: 14.6°C
  • July: 13.9°C
  • August: 13.5°C
  • September: 13.3°C
  • October: 13.7°C
  • November: 15.1°C
  • December: 16.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Kaikōura

Nearest Dive Centres to Double Cove Marine Reserve

Marine Life in Kaikōura

Home to 37 recorded species including 16 reef fish, 8 sharks & rays, 4 other, 2 sea urchins, 2 hard corals, 2 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Double Cove Marine Reserve

Based on average water temperature of 15.7°C, currents 18 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (5-7mm) - recommended for 16°C water
  • Hood & Gloves (3-5mm) - helps retain warmth
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at Double Cove Marine Reserve?
At Double Cove Marine Reserve, divers can expect typical depths ranging from 9 to 18 meters. The maximum depth recorded at this site is 14 meters, making it suitable for various experience levels.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at Double Cove Marine Reserve?
Divers at Double Cove Marine Reserve will encounter a vibrant array of aquatic life. You can expect to see species such as Blue Cod, Leather Jackets, Carpet Sharks, Stargazers, and Stingrays. The Blue Cod are particularly friendly and often approach divers closely, offering a unique interaction. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at Double Cove Marine Reserve, and is it suitable for beginners?
While Double Cove Marine Reserve is generally classified as an intermediate dive site, it is highly suitable for beginners and training. Its sheltered conditions make it an ideal and safe environment for those new to diving.
What are the best times of year or conditions to dive at Double Cove Marine Reserve for optimal visibility and experience?
The average visibility at Double Cove Marine Reserve is typically 6 meters. Specific information regarding the best times of year or optimal conditions for enhanced visibility and experience is not available in our current data. For general guidance on dive conditions, you can visit our when to dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at Double Cove Marine Reserve?
Our current data for Double Cove Marine Reserve does not specify any unique diving certifications required for this site. However, as with all diving, a recognized open water certification is generally recommended to ensure diver safety and proficiency.
What are the typical current and water conditions like at Double Cove Marine Reserve?
Double Cove Marine Reserve is noted for being quite sheltered, which contributes to its suitability for beginners and training. Specific details regarding typical current strength or water temperatures are not provided in our available data for this site.