2m
    South Coast, Ireland
    Hook Head SAC

    CORAL STRAND

    Good diving all year

    Protected Area

    Hook Head SAC

    Why dive here

    With 185+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - CORAL STRAND offers some of South Coast's richest wreck diving. Water ranges 9-15°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeYear-round
    WetsuitA drysuit
    Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Dolphins, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales and Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) · 185+ species recorded
    Water9-15°C · warmest July, August, September
    CharacterWreck dive · max 2m
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    Coral Strand isn't about depth or big pelagics. This site, just 2 metres deep, is a fascinating look at how a wreck becomes a home, even in such shallow water. We love it for its accessibility and the sheer density of life clinging to every surface of the old fishing vessel. It’s an excellent site for a leisurely snorkel or a very shallow dive, perfect for photographers wanting to spend time with macro subjects or for newer divers getting comfortable around an artificial reef. You’ll weave around sections of rusted hull, now covered in soft corals and anemones that sway gently with the tide. Look closely and you'll spot blennies peering from crevices, small crabs scuttling amongst the growth, and butterfish darting in and out of the shadows. The light here, even on an overcast day, filters down beautifully, illuminating the colours. We suggest timing your visit for high tide to get the best visibility over the wreck, as low tide can kick up a bit more sediment. It’s a quiet, reflective spot, surprisingly engaging despite its shallowness.

    Typical CORAL STRAND Dive Profile

    Safety Stop0m2m max~60 min estimated bottom time

    Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.

    Safety Notes

    Wreck site - avoid penetration without wreck diving certification. Watch for sharp metal and entanglement hazards.

    Cold water this month (avg 14°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.

    Today06:4617:4410h 59m daylightGolden hour 16:58

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for CORAL STRAND

    CORAL STRAND Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for CORAL STRAND, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (51.71, -8.38) (9km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    14°C

    57°F · Range: 12.3–14.8°C

    Air Temperature

    12°C

    54°F

    Wind Speed

    7.84 m/s

    15.2 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1008.6 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

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