Le Canon - Cousteau Reserve

Norah Head, specifically Cabbage Tree Bay, is a standout for us, especially if you’re looking for a relaxing shore dive close to Sydney. Don't let the "beginner" label fool you; this spot consistently delivers. We love the easy entry from the boat ramp, a real bonus when you’re lugging gear. Drop in and follow the wall, which gently slopes down to a sandy bottom at around six metres. It’s a great depth for soaking up the scenery without feeling rushed. Keep your eyes peeled amongst the kelp and rocks for resident octopus peering out from crevices, and we’ve often seen banjo sharks resting on the sand, sometimes even a stout southern eagle ray gliding past. Nudibranchs are plentiful here, and the Aegean tube worms add a splash of colour against the grey rock. Visibility averages six metres, which, for a shore dive, feels perfectly adequate – it keeps things intimate. We’d suggest heading out during a high tide for the easiest entry and exit, and watch for schools of little fish darting around the kelp fronds. It's an excellent spot for photographers wanting to practice macro work or simply for those days you just want an easy, rewarding splash.

Location
Cousteau Reserve, Guadeloupe, Caribbean
Coordinates
16.443700, -61.541100
Type
wall

Marine Protected Area: Pointe De L\'Anse Bertrand

Best Time to Dive in Cousteau Reserve

The warmest water temperatures in Cousteau Reserve occur in January, averaging 27.5°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 27.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.5°C (air: 24.9°C)
  • February: 27.5°C (air: 24.8°C)
  • March: 27.5°C (air: 25.2°C)
  • April: 27.5°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • May: 27.5°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • June: 27.5°C (air: 27.8°C)
  • July: 27.5°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • August: 27.5°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • September: 27.5°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • October: 27.5°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • November: 27.5°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • December: 27.5°C (air: 25.3°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Cousteau Reserve

Nearest Dive Centres to Le Canon

Marine Life in Cousteau Reserve

Home to 345 recorded species including 259 reef fish, 27 hard corals, 16 whales & dolphins, 12 other, 6 seagrass & algae, 5 sea urchins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Le Canon

Based on average water temperature of 27.5°C.

  • 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