Shark Reef - Grenada - Southwest Coast

Timna’s Towers, a quick boat ride from Treasure Island, is one of those places that just keeps giving. It’s a standout for a reason. We love dropping in on an incoming tide when the fusiliers are absolutely everywhere, so thick you can barely see the reef beyond them. It's a real spectacle, a swirling, shimmering wall of fish that parts as you glide through. The site itself is a collection of distinct coral heads, rising from around 16m to just 5m below the surface. Mostly hard corals here, but you'll find some lovely patches of soft corals and big gorgonian fans too. We often spot coral trout tucked away, and the harlequin sweetlips are a common sight, their patterns really popping against the coral. Keep an eye out for the odd jack or Spanish mackerel cruising the deeper sections. It’s a surprisingly dynamic spot for a relatively shallow dive. Our pick for an afternoon drift, if the currents are playing nice. You’ll leave feeling energised. This site is perfect for newer divers, but even experienced eyes will find plenty to hold their attention. It’s a great example of what Taveuni’s nearshore reefs can offer.

Location
Southwest Coast, Grenada, Caribbean
Coordinates
11.983100, -61.784400
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 Shark Reef - 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 Shark Reef - 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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Shark Reef in Grenada?
The typical depth range for diving at Shark Reef in Grenada is from 10 meters (30 feet) to 17 meters (50 feet). The maximum depth you can reach at this site is 18 meters, making it a fantastic shallow reef dive.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Shark Reef, Grenada?
Divers visiting Shark Reef can expect to encounter a vibrant shallow reef ecosystem. The site is particularly known for its many small nurse sharks, including baby nurse sharks, often found in the numerous nooks and crannies. Additionally, you might spot lobsters, king crabs, and a wide variety of other marine life typical of a healthy shallow reef.
How challenging is the diving at Shark Reef, Grenada, and is it suitable for Open Water divers?
Diving at Shark Reef is rated as intermediate in difficulty. While it is a shallow reef, strong currents up to 4 knots can occur, making it potentially challenging. Therefore, it is generally more suitable for divers with some experience beyond entry-level Open Water certification, especially when currents are present.
When is the best time of year to dive Shark Reef in Grenada for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify a "best time of year" for diving Shark Reef in Grenada. However, dive operators aim to avoid times when strong 4-knot currents are present to ensure optimal and safer diving conditions. For general information on when to dive in the region, please consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive Shark Reef in Grenada?
Given that Shark Reef is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site, it is recommended that divers have experience beyond a basic Open Water certification. While not explicitly stated as a requirement, the potential for strong 4-knot currents suggests that advanced training or significant experience in current diving would be beneficial for a comfortable and safe experience.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at Shark Reef, Grenada?
Shark Reef, being in the Atlantic, can experience strong currents, sometimes reaching up to 4 knots. Dive operators typically try to schedule dives to avoid these stronger current periods. The average visibility at the site is excellent, typically around 17 meters (55 feet), offering clear views of the reef and its inhabitants.