reef

Log This Dive

Coral garden

Okay, let’s talk about Coral Garden. From the name, you might expect a gentle, pastel-coloured dream, and in many ways, you’d be right. We love this site for its sheer density of smaller reef fish and the way the light plays through the shallows. Drop in, and you’re immediately enveloped by the hum of a busy reef. You'll find yourself drifting over broad expanses of stony corals and corrugated coral, with patches of spine coral adding some texture. It’s not about big pelagics here, though a passing reef shark isn’t unheard of. This is a place for slowing down, for really looking. Our favourite moments at Coral Garden are spent watching the parrotfish go about their business, munching away, or spotting the tiny bicolor blennies popping out of their holes. Keep an eye out for the peppered squirrelfish and blackfin soldierfish tucked into the overhangs, their eyes reflecting your torch beam. The reef’s topography keeps things interesting, with little sandy patches where you might spot a Point-head maori or even a cleaner mimic wrasse getting to work. We’d suggest an early morning dive here, before too many boats arrive, when the light is soft and the fish seem a little less shy. It’s a perfect spot for photographers who enjoy macro and wide-angle reef scenes alike, and generally suits divers who appreciate the intricacies of a thriving house reef without demanding strong currents or deep exploration.