Barracuda Shoals - Long Island

Barracuda Shoals is one of those sites we always suggest early in a trip, especially if you're getting your sea legs back. At just 10 metres, it's a relaxed dive, but don't mistake shallow for uninteresting. We've often found large schools of barracuda hanging just under the boat, using it for shade, before they peel off into the blue. On the reef itself, look for nurse sharks napping on the sandy patches, and big schools of goatfish and snapper moving together. It's a great spot for an easy-going dive with plenty of resident fish life.

Location
Long Island, Bahamas, Caribbean
Coordinates
23.610000, -75.879800
Maximum Depth
10m
Difficulty
Beginner

Marine Protected Area: Jewfish Cay Marine Reserve

Best Time to Dive in Long Island

The warmest water temperatures in Long Island occur in September, averaging 30.1°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 25.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 25.1°C
  • February: 25.3°C
  • March: 25.5°C
  • April: 26.9°C
  • May: 28.1°C
  • June: 29.2°C
  • July: 29.9°C
  • August: 30.0°C
  • September: 30.1°C
  • October: 29.1°C
  • November: 27.5°C
  • December: 26.0°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Long Island

Marine Life in Long Island

Home to 366 recorded species including 321 reef fish, 15 hard corals, 7 whales & dolphins, 6 sea snails & nudibranchs, 5 sharks & rays, 4 other.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Barracuda Shoals

Based on average water temperature of 27.7°C, currents 12 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • 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 depth range for diving at Barracuda Shoals?
The typical depth for diving at Barracuda Shoals is quite shallow, around 35 ft (10m). This makes it an excellent site for divers looking for a relaxed experience and is ideal for early dives in a cruise.
What kind of marine life and coral can I expect to see when diving Barracuda Shoals?
At Barracuda Shoals, you can expect to encounter a vibrant array of marine life. Large schools of barracuda are a common sight, often swirling beneath the boat, alongside schools of goatfish and snappers. Keep an eye out for goliath grouper, lionfish, turtles, triggerfish, queen angelfish, and nurse sharks resting on the sandy patches. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at Barracuda Shoals, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Barracuda Shoals is rated as Beginner difficulty, making it highly suitable for new divers. The site's shallow depth of 35 ft (10m) and minimal currents contribute to a very comfortable and accessible diving experience.
What is the best time of year or day to dive at Barracuda Shoals?
While the data suggests Barracuda Shoals is a great dive site for early in a cruise, specific best times of year are not provided. However, you can observe nurse sharks resting on sandy patches during the day, which offers a unique daytime viewing opportunity. For general guidance on optimal diving conditions, you might consult our when to dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Barracuda Shoals?
Given that Barracuda Shoals is rated as a Beginner dive site, an Open Water Diver certification is typically sufficient. Its shallow depth of 35 ft (10m) and minimal currents make it accessible for those with entry-level certifications.
What are the typical current and water conditions like at Barracuda Shoals?
The typical current conditions at Barracuda Shoals are minimal, making for a very relaxed and enjoyable dive. This contributes to its suitability for beginner divers and those seeking a calm underwater experience.