POINTE AUX FOUS - Cousteau Reserve

Shark Reef, just southeast of Toberua, feels less like a traditional reef and more like a submarine obstacle course. We love it for the sheer fun of navigating those dramatic rocky overhangs and squeezing through the giant coral archways. You're not just observing here, you’re actively exploring. Visibility averages around 5 meters, which isn't huge, but it creates this amazing sense of intimacy as you duck and weave. It’s perfect for divers who enjoy a bit of an adventure, who like poking into crevices rather than just drifting along a wall. Keep an eye out for those big, curious coral hinds peeking from the shadows, and we've often spotted a startled turtle or two high-tailing it out of an archway as we approach. We'd suggest getting here earlier in the day; the light filtering through the arches then is just beautiful, a real shifting mosaic on the sandy bottom.

Location
Cousteau Reserve, Guadeloupe, Caribbean
Coordinates
16.298900, -61.803100
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-20m

Marine Protected Area: Gros Morne - Grande Anse

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 POINTE AUX FOUS

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 POINTE AUX FOUS

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Pointe aux Fous?
Diving at Pointe aux Fous typically offers a depth range from 5m to 20m. The site itself starts at a comfortable 6m and extends to 17m at the edge of the herbarium, with a practical maximum depth for most dives being 15m. This allows for exploration across various depths and features.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Pointe aux Fous?
Divers at Pointe aux Fous can expect a vibrant underwater experience, navigating among several beautiful coral spots. The site is teeming with marine life, including many schools of fish, turtles, large barracudas, stingrays, and lobsters. Lucky divers might even encounter dolphins during their visit to this lively wildlife hotspot.
How challenging is the diving at Pointe aux Fous, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Pointe aux Fous is classified as intermediate difficulty. While it's a fantastic site, it might be more challenging for absolute beginners due to its characteristics. Divers with some experience will find it very rewarding.
What is the best time of year to dive at Pointe aux Fous for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Pointe aux Fous for optimal conditions or marine encounters. For general guidance on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Pointe aux Fous?
The provided information does not specify particular scuba diving certifications required or recommended for Pointe aux Fous. Given its intermediate difficulty, a minimum of Open Water Diver certification is generally recommended for such sites. It's always best to check with local dive operators for specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Pointe aux Fous dive site?
Divers at Pointe aux Fous can typically expect good visibility, averaging around 14m. The provided data does not specify the typical current conditions for this dive site. Therefore, it's advisable to inquire with local dive centers before your dive for the most current information.