Pilena Reef - Iron Bottom Sound

Seekombuis is a convenient shore entry that works well for those just starting out or looking for an easy dip. We usually surface swim about 150 metres to the main area, which helps conserve air, especially with the maximum depth of 6m. The southern side has a small kelp outcrop where you might spot some nudibranchs, maybe even an octopus tucked away. Visibility averages around 4m, so it’s a site for close inspection rather than big vistas. Think rock fish, cuttlefish, and various sea stars. It’s a pretty calm spot, good for honing buoyancy or testing new gear.

Location
Iron Bottom Sound, Solomon Islands, Central & South Pacific
Coordinates
-7.619900, 158.791000
Type
reef

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 Pilena 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 Pilena 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 diving depth at Pilena Reef?
At Pilena Reef, divers typically explore depths ranging from 4 meters down to 20 meters. The maximum depth recorded at this site is 22 meters, offering a good range for intermediate divers.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Pilena Reef?
Divers at Pilena Reef will be captivated by large golden coral structures that coat the reef wall. The site is also renowned for an abundance of nudibranchs, and a large array of other marine species thrives within the coral in the first fifteen meters of depth.
How challenging is diving at Pilena Reef for different skill levels?
Pilena Reef is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. While generally protected, it can be exposed to large swells during high winds, and light currents may occur, requiring divers to have some experience in varying conditions.
What is the best time of year to dive Pilena Reef for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at Pilena Reef. For general information on seasonal diving, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Pilena Reef?
While specific certification requirements are not detailed in the provided data, given that Pilena Reef is an intermediate difficulty site, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent is generally recommended. This ensures divers are comfortable with potential light currents and depths up to 22 meters.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at Pilena Reef?
At Pilena Reef, divers can expect light currents, though the site is relatively protected underneath. However, it is exposed to large swells if high winds occur. Average visibility at the reef is typically around 15 meters.