CORAL STRAND
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.
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
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.
Reviews for CORAL STRAND
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)
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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