Emerald Forest
Why dive here
With 210+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda, dolphins, eagle rays, nurse sharks and sea turtles - Emerald Forest offers some of Utila's richest reef diving. Water ranges 27-30°C, warmest August, September, October.
Emerald Forest, over on Utila’s west side, is a popular spot for a reason. Drop in and you’re immediately greeted by the shallows, where we’ve often seen beginners getting comfortable among some really healthy elkhorn coral formations, starting at about 25 feet. It’s perfect for snorkelers too, with visibility generally excellent. If you’re pushing a bit deeper, the wall drops to around 70 feet, and that’s where you’ll find the usual cast of characters – parrotfish grazing, a few morays peeking out, and the occasional turtle passing by. It’s a solid, easy dive, not overly dramatic, but consistently enjoyable for a relaxed afternoon.
Reviews for Emerald Forest
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Emerald Forest
Emerald Forest Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Emerald Forest, sourced from Copernicus Marine satellite data
August Averages
Sea Temperature
29.66°C
85°F
Current Speed
19 cm/s
Direction: W (270°)
Chlorophyll-a
0.043 mg/m³
Very clear (oligotrophic)
Salinity
36.12 PSU
Data sources: Copernicus Marine Service (EU)
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