Lighthouse Bay - Poor Knights Islands

Nyumba Ya Casa, ‘House of Turtles’ in Swahili, pretty much delivers on its name. We’ve seen more green turtles here than almost anywhere else in Zanzibar, often just hanging out on the coral, seemingly unbothered by divers. This site is a pinnacle rising from the seabed, and it’s absolutely smothered in soft sponges. The colours really pop against the blue, especially when the light hits them just right. We love Nyumba Ya Casa for its chill vibe and the reliable turtle encounters. The max depth of 17m makes it a relaxed dive, perfect for photographers or anyone who just wants to take their time. Look closely among the sponges for moray eels peering out, and we’ve spotted stonefish here too, so keep an eye on your buoyancy. Visibility generally hovers around 12-15m, which is good enough to appreciate the scale of the pinnacle and the sponges. It’s a great spot for a morning dive, before any potential afternoon chop picks up.

Location
Poor Knights Islands, New Zealand, Australasia
Coordinates
-35.612700, 174.542900
Type
pinnacle

Marine Protected Area: Tutukaka

Best Time to Dive in Poor Knights Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Poor Knights Islands occur in February, averaging 21.9°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 15.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 21.4°C
  • February: 21.9°C
  • March: 21.7°C
  • April: 20.6°C
  • May: 19.1°C
  • June: 17.6°C
  • July: 16.5°C
  • August: 15.8°C
  • September: 15.9°C
  • October: 16.6°C
  • November: 18.2°C
  • December: 19.8°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Poor Knights Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Lighthouse Bay

Marine Life in Poor Knights Islands

Home to 84 recorded species including 53 reef fish, 11 sharks & rays, 4 whales & dolphins, 4 other, 3 crabs & lobsters, 2 sea urchins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Lighthouse Bay

Based on average water temperature of 18.8°C, currents 12 cm/s.

  • Wetsuit (3-5mm) - comfortable for 19°C water
  • 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 Lighthouse Bay in Exmouth?
The provided data for Lighthouse Bay is specific to the Poor Knights Islands, New Zealand, not Exmouth. At this New Zealand location, the typical diving depth reaches a maximum of 12 meters, making it a relatively shallow site.
What marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Lighthouse Bay?
Divers at Lighthouse Bay can expect to encounter regular coastal fish species amidst the shallow rocky and kelpy environment. While specific coral types are not detailed, the site is regenerating, and a 2023 survey noted a lack of crayfish, leading to a local closure of shellfish harvesting. For more general information on marine life, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at Lighthouse Bay, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Lighthouse Bay is rated as intermediate difficulty. This suggests it is suitable for divers who have some experience beyond entry-level certification. Its maximum depth of 12 meters and average visibility of 7 meters contribute to its intermediate classification, making it a good site for progressing skills.
When is the best time of year to dive Lighthouse Bay for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive Lighthouse Bay for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you may wish to consult our When to Dive resource.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Lighthouse Bay?
The provided data does not specify any particular scuba diving certifications required to dive at Lighthouse Bay. Divers should always ensure they have the appropriate certification for an intermediate dive site and consult with local dive operators for specific requirements.
What are the typical currents and visibility conditions like for diving in Lighthouse Bay?
Lighthouse Bay typically offers an average visibility of 7 meters. The provided data does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions at this dive site. Divers should always consult local dive operators for real-time conditions before planning their dive.