The Zoo
Protected Area
Folkstone
Why dive here
With 376+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda, dolphins, humpback whales, octopuses and orcas - The Zoo offers some of West Coast's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 27-30°C, warmest August, September, October.
The Zoo holds a special spot on the West Coast, a shallower fringing reef that genuinely delivers on its name. We love its gentle slopes, reaching a maximum of 20m, meaning longer bottom times and a chance to really soak it all in. This isn't about dramatic drop-offs; it's about the sheer numbers of fish, particularly the smaller, shyer residents you might miss elsewhere. Our favourite moments here often involve scanning the sand patches for Mottled Jawfish peering from their burrows or catching sight of a shy Barred Cardinalfish tucked into a crevice. Look closely, and you’ll find Deltoid Rock Shells clinging to the substrate and Puffcheek Blennies wiggling on the coral. Schools of juvenile Atlantic Thread Herring or Redear Herring often shimmer overhead, and if you’re lucky, a Cero or Atlantic Spanish Mackerel might dart through the fringes of the reef. The visibility averages a decent 18m, making it a joy for photographers who appreciate the macro life and a perfect chill-out dive for anyone wanting a relaxed exploration. It’s also often less crowded than other spots, making for a peaceful dive.
Safety Notes
Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.
Nearest Dive Centres to The Zoo
Dive shops near The Zoo
BarbadoScuba
Reefers & Wreckers
Hightide Watersports
Salt & Sea Scuba
Reviews for The Zoo
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for The Zoo
The Zoo Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for The Zoo, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (13.26, -59.65) (2km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
30°C
86°F · Range: 28.9–31.2°C
Air Temperature
28°C
82°F
Wind Speed
5.94 m/s
11.5 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1012.2 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
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