Kid Reef - Iron Bottom Sound

Mini Wall is one of those sites we always recommend to newer divers in Komodo, and frankly, anyone who appreciates taking it slow. Don't expect screaming currents or huge pelagics here; this is a spot for settling in and letting the details emerge. The wall itself isn't massive, dropping to about 30 metres, but it’s absolutely smothered in a stunning variety of corals – we've seen everything from delicate thin birdsnest to big, chunky brain corals and vibrant starflowers. We love Mini Wall for its relaxed pace and excellent macro life. Keep your eyes peeled for hairy squat lobsters tucked into crannies, a surprising number of nudibranchs, and those cool chocolate chip sea stars clinging to the reef. Turtles often cruise by, and you’ll usually spot some sleepy groupers or a well-camouflaged scorpionfish. Visibility averages a comfortable 16 metres, making it easy to focus on the smaller wonders without feeling rushed. It's a genuinely lovely, easy dive, perfect for photographers or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to Komodo's incredible reefs.

Location
Iron Bottom Sound, Solomon Islands, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-7.582800, 158.766900
Type
wall
Maximum Depth
5-15m

Marine Protected Area: Kia

Best Time to Dive in Iron Bottom Sound

The warmest water temperatures in Iron Bottom Sound occur in January, averaging 30.5°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 30.5°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 30.5°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • February: 30.5°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • March: 30.5°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • April: 30.5°C (air: 26.8°C)
  • May: 30.5°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • June: 30.5°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • July: 30.5°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • August: 30.5°C (air: 26.3°C)
  • September: 30.5°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • October: 30.5°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • November: 30.5°C (air: 26.7°C)
  • December: 30.5°C (air: 26.9°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Iron Bottom Sound

Nearest Dive Centres to Kid Reef

Marine Life in Iron Bottom Sound

Home to 415 recorded species including 320 reef fish, 29 hard corals, 18 sea snails & nudibranchs, 16 sea cucumbers, 7 seagrass & algae, 5 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Kid Reef

Based on average water temperature of 30.5°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 30°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 for diving at Kid Reef (Perdido Key Reef)?
The maximum depth for diving at Kid Reef is 17 meters. It is also noted that the max depth at Kid Reef is 16 meters, making it a great spot for learning and assessing buoyancy before heading out to deeper dives.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at Kid Reef (Perdido Key Reef)?
Divers at Kid Reef can expect to encounter a variety of marine life. The rocky reef is home to many nudibranchs and unique corals that resemble marshmallows. Additionally, keep an eye out for stingrays in the sandy bottom areas.
How difficult is diving at Kid Reef (Perdido Key Reef), and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at Kid Reef is classified as intermediate difficulty. However, it is explicitly noted as a great site for learning and assessing buoyancy, making it suitable for divers looking to refine their skills before attempting more challenging dives.
What are the best times of year or conditions to dive at Kid Reef (Perdido Key Reef)?
The provided data does not specify the best times of year to dive at Kid Reef. However, divers should be aware that the site experiences bi-directional currents influenced by tidal movements. For general information on when to dive in the Solomon Islands, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at Kid Reef (Perdido Key Reef)?
The data provided does not specify particular scuba diving certifications required for Kid Reef. Given its intermediate difficulty and suitability for buoyancy practice, an Open Water Diver certification is generally a good starting point, though further training might enhance the experience. Always check with local dive operators for their specific requirements.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions like at Kid Reef (Perdido Key Reef)?
Kid Reef typically experiences bi-directional currents, which are influenced by tidal movements. Divers can generally expect an average visibility of 11 meters at this site.