Thumb Rock
Protected Area
Bunduff Lough and Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore SAC
Why dive here
With 169+ marine species recorded in the area - including dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and octopuses - Thumb Rock offers some of West Coast's richest pinnacle diving. Water ranges 8-17°C, warmest July, August, September.
Thumb Rock, tucked away on Ireland's west coast, offers a straightforward dive among rocky crevices and kelp beds. It's a solid choice for a calm day when you're looking for a relaxed exploration rather than a thrill. Expect to spot plenty of crabs, lobsters, and blennies peeking out from under the rocks. This site is ideal for less experienced divers or those looking for a chilled-out second dive.
Typical Thumb Rock Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Cold water this month (avg 14°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.
Reviews for Thumb Rock
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Thumb Rock
Thumb Rock Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Thumb Rock, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (53.32, -9.66) (22km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
14°C
56°F · Range: 11.7–15.4°C
Air Temperature
12°C
54°F
Wind Speed
8.2 m/s
15.9 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1007.4 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
Plan & book
Ways to dive West Coast, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in West CoastPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near West Coast.
Search stays in West CoastDive insurance
Most travel insurance excludes or limits scuba. Check what you need before you go.
Dive insurance explainedPartner links: we may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you. How we make money
Where to Stay near Thumb Rock
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
