CORAL STRAND - South Coast

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.

Location
South Coast, Ireland, Mediterranean & Europe
Coordinates
52.164833, -6.902667
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Hook Head SAC

Best Time to Dive in South Coast

The warmest water temperatures in South Coast occur in January, averaging 8.8°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 8.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 8.8°C (air: 7.0°C)
  • February: 8.8°C (air: 8.3°C)
  • March: 8.8°C (air: 8.1°C)
  • April: 8.8°C (air: 9.3°C)
  • May: 8.8°C (air: 11.8°C)
  • June: 8.8°C (air: 14.2°C)
  • July: 8.8°C (air: 15.6°C)
  • August: 8.8°C (air: 15.8°C)
  • September: 8.8°C (air: 14.6°C)
  • October: 8.8°C (air: 12.4°C)
  • November: 8.8°C (air: 9.9°C)
  • December: 8.8°C (air: 8.1°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in South Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to CORAL STRAND

Marine Life in South Coast

Home to 199 recorded species including 97 reef fish, 24 sharks & rays, 14 whales & dolphins, 14 other, 10 crabs & lobsters, 10 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for CORAL STRAND

Based on average water temperature of 8.8°C.

  • Drysuit - water at 9°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • 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