Buffet - Coiba National Park

Enterprise is exactly what we look for when we dive Cocos, a site that just feels wild. You’ll drop onto a massive bommie sitting right on the edge of a deep drop-off, a proper ocean interface. We love to get there on an incoming tide. That upwelling really gets the food chain fired up. We’re talking grey reef sharks cruising past, often a dozen at a time, and big dogtooth tuna launching themselves into schools of fusiliers. That deep blue wall holds promise. For those comfortable with a bit of exposure, slipping down to 26m reveals a small cave, more an overhang really, but it’s cool to poke your head in and see what's lurking in the shadows. Keep an eye out for those big groupers often hanging around the bommie at the end of the dive. This site is for experienced divers who appreciate raw energy and big pelagics.

Location
Coiba National Park, Panama, Central America
Coordinates
7.685300, -81.611000
Type
cave

Marine Protected Area: Coiba

Nearby Dive Sites in Coiba National Park

Nearest Dive Centres to Buffet

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 maximum depth for diving at the Buffet dive site in Coiba National Park?
The maximum depth for diving at the Buffet dive site in Coiba National Park is 19 meters. Divers typically descend along the buoy line to about 12 meters, from where the reef begins and extends deeper. This site offers an exciting exploration within its specified depth limits.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at the Buffet dive site?
At the Buffet dive site, divers are almost guaranteed to encounter a rich variety of marine life. You can expect to see numerous sharks, many moray eels, and impressive shoals of barracudas. Various types of jack are also commonly sighted among the rock formations, making for a vibrant underwater experience. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
Is the Buffet dive site considered difficult for scuba divers, or is it suitable for beginners?
The Buffet dive site is classified as having an intermediate difficulty level. This means it is not typically suitable for beginner divers, but rather for those with some prior diving experience. Divers should be comfortable with the conditions and depth range encountered here.
When is the best time of year to dive the Buffet site for optimal marine life encounters, such as whale sharks or manta rays?
The provided data for the Buffet dive site does not specify the best time of year for optimal marine life encounters, nor does it mention sightings of whale sharks or manta rays. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in Panama, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at Buffet in Coiba National Park?
The provided data for the Buffet dive site does not explicitly state recommended or required scuba diving certifications. However, given its intermediate difficulty and classification as a cave dive, advanced certifications or specialized training would likely be necessary. It's always best to check with a local dive operator for specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Buffet dive site?
At the Buffet dive site, divers can expect an average visibility of 15 meters. The provided data does not specify the typical current conditions for this particular dive site. Divers should always check local conditions with their dive operator before entering the water.