Small Wall - Curaçao Southeast

Trade Me Reef often gets overlooked, sitting right by the cardinal marker, but it’s a solid spot, especially if the weather’s a bit choppy elsewhere. We usually drop anchor in the sheltered inlet, around six metres, then it's a short underwater swim northwest to the main action. The reef itself slopes down to about 11 metres, with a sandy patch connecting it to a rock outcrop. Keep an eye out for the big snapper lurking in the shadows and plenty of octopus dens scattered across the sand. While the visibility averages around eight metres, it’s a good choice for newer divers or those looking for a relaxed dive with interesting macro life.

Location
Curaçao Southeast, Curaçao, Caribbean
Coordinates
12.062900, -68.859500
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Spanish Water Inner Bay Park

Best Time to Dive in Curaçao Southeast

The warmest water temperatures in Curaçao Southeast occur in October, averaging 29.7°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 26.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.0°C
  • February: 26.6°C
  • March: 26.8°C
  • April: 27.0°C
  • May: 27.6°C
  • June: 28.0°C
  • July: 28.2°C
  • August: 29.0°C
  • September: 29.5°C
  • October: 29.7°C
  • November: 29.0°C
  • December: 28.1°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Curaçao Southeast

Nearest Dive Centres to Small Wall

Marine Life in Curaçao Southeast

Home to 322 recorded species including 259 reef fish, 24 hard corals, 7 other, 6 crabs & lobsters, 5 seagrass & algae, 5 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Small Wall

Based on average water temperature of 28.0°C, currents 22 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 Small Wall in Bonaire?
The Small Wall dive site, located in Curaçao, offers a maximum depth of 20 meters. While the typical depth range isn't explicitly stated, divers can explore the beautiful reef formations up to this depth. Please note that the site is in Curaçao, not Bonaire.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Small Wall?
Divers at Small Wall can expect to encounter a vibrant reef ecosystem featuring lots of purple sea fans and large hard coral formations. Marine life regularly sighted includes majestic green and hawksbill turtles, colorful queen angelfish, porcupine fish, moray eels, bar jacks, and barracudas.
How difficult is the Small Wall dive site, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
The Small Wall dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it boasts a full overgrown coral reef, the entry from shore is noted as not easy, which might pose a challenge for beginner divers. Therefore, it is generally more suitable for divers with some experience.
What is the best time of year to dive at Small Wall for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data for Small Wall does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on diving in the region, you might consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific dive certifications required to dive at Small Wall?
The available information for the Small Wall dive site does not specify any particular dive certifications required. Typically, an Open Water Diver certification is sufficient for intermediate sites, but it's always best to confirm with local dive operators.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the Small Wall dive site?
Divers at Small Wall can generally expect excellent visibility, averaging 24 meters. Information regarding typical current conditions at this specific site is not provided in the available data.