Bajo Piñon - Coiba National Park

Bajo Piñon, just off Isla Afuerita, is our pick for a macro feast in Coiba. A lone rock pokes above the surface, marking the spot, and it’s a good idea to scout that out before you drop in. We generally kick off in the shallows, maybe 5-7 metres, where the coral clings to the rock, before following it down to its base at 20 metres. Here, the current can pick up, so keep an eye on your dive guide. We love this site for its smaller residents. Peer into the crevices and you’ll find plenty of Greater Soapfish, their bodies mottled, blending in perfectly. Look for Redhead Gobies darting between the coral branches, and we’ve spotted tiny Codlets tucked away too. While the big stuff like white tip reef sharks and turtles sometimes cruise by, our favourite finds here are the Baja California Ceriths clinging to the rocks, and the colourful Cortez Angelfish. Visibility averages around 17 metres, which is usually plenty to appreciate the intricate details of the reef. It's a great spot for photographers, especially if you’re into the smaller subjects, and it suits divers comfortable with a gentle drift.

Location
Coiba National Park, Panama, Central America
Coordinates
7.703500, -81.640300
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Coiba

Nearby Dive Sites in Coiba National Park

Nearest Dive Centres to Bajo Piñon

Marine Life in Coiba National Park

Home to 355 recorded species including 317 reef fish, 13 sharks & rays, 7 whales & dolphins, 6 other, 5 hard corals, 2 crabs & lobsters.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Bajo Piñon?
The dive site at Bajo Piñon offers a varied depth profile, starting in shallow areas and progressing to deeper, more challenging bottoms. Divers can explore depths up to a maximum of 20 meters. This makes it suitable for divers looking for both shallower reef exploration and deeper challenges.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at Bajo Piñon?
At Bajo Piñon, divers can anticipate encountering a vibrant array of marine life. Expect to see majestic turtles, graceful white tip reef sharks, and a diverse collection of reef fish. Additionally, the site is noted for its excellent macro life, particularly on the top of the reef, making it a fantastic spot for underwater photography.
How difficult is diving at Bajo Piñon, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at Bajo Piñon is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it starts in shallow areas, it progresses to a more deep and challenging bottom, suggesting it might not be ideal for absolute beginners. Divers with some experience will find it a rewarding adventure.
When is the best time of year to dive at Bajo Piñon for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Bajo Piñon for optimal conditions. For general information on diving seasons in Panama, you may want to consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Bajo Piñon?
The provided data does not explicitly state the specific scuba diving certifications required for Bajo Piñon. However, as it is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive site with challenging bottom areas, divers should possess a certification level appropriate for such conditions. We recommend consulting with your chosen dive operator in Coiba National Park for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at Bajo Piñon?
At Bajo Piñon, divers can expect an average visibility of 17 meters, offering clear views of the vibrant reef and marine life. The provided data does not specify typical current conditions for this dive site.