Black Forest - Grenada - Southwest Coast

Black Forest holds a special place on the southwest coast, mainly because it consistently delivers on the details. We love dropping onto the slope here, watching it unfold from about 12 metres down to the maximum depth of 20 metres. The name really comes alive with those dense thickets of black gorgonians, stretching out like a submerged forest. What truly sets it apart, though, are the elephant ear sponges. They start to appear lower down, huge orange folds that add a surprising splash of colour against the darker gorgonians. Keep your eyes peeled for the smaller stuff: we’ve seen Black Cyphomas crawling over the gorgonian branches, and there's usually a good population of shrimps, crabs, and eels tucked into every crevice. Lobsters often peek out from larger holes, and the occasional porcupinefish might drift past. Visibility averages a comfortable 17 metres, making it an excellent spot for photographers looking to capture the intricate details on the reef. It’s a site that rewards a slow pace and a keen eye, perfect for anyone who enjoys exploring the nooks and crannies of a healthy reef.

Location
Southwest Coast, Grenada, Caribbean
Coordinates
12.016400, -61.787600
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Grand Anse

Best Time to Dive in Southwest Coast

The warmest water temperatures in Southwest Coast occur in January, averaging 27.4°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.4°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.4°C (air: 25.9°C)
  • February: 27.4°C (air: 26.0°C)
  • March: 27.4°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • April: 27.4°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • May: 27.4°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • June: 27.4°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • July: 27.4°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • August: 27.4°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • September: 27.4°C (air: 28.3°C)
  • October: 27.4°C (air: 28.0°C)
  • November: 27.4°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • December: 27.4°C (air: 26.5°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Southwest Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to Black Forest - Grenada

Marine Life in Southwest Coast

Home to 267 recorded species including 231 reef fish, 13 hard corals, 10 whales & dolphins, 3 seagrass & algae, 2 jellyfish, 2 sea snails & nudibranchs.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Black Forest - Grenada

Based on average water temperature of 27.4°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 27°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