Swanage Pier
Protected Area
Studland Cliffs
Why dive here
With 176+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dolphins, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales and ocean sunfish (mola mola) - Swanage Pier offers some of Cornwall & Devon's richest reef diving. Water ranges 10-18°C, warmest July, August, September.
Swanage Pier is a proper UK pier dive, and we mean that in the best way. Dropping to a gentle 6 metres, it's perfect for beginners or anyone keen on a relaxed potter. You'll find the wooden pilings absolutely encrusted with plumose anemones, dead man's fingers, and colourful sponges, creating a surprisingly vibrant scene. Look closely amongst the structure for blennies peering from cracks, tiny crabs scuttling past, and often nudibranchs munching on the growth. It’s a low-key, accessible dive, brilliant for honing buoyancy or just enjoying some close-up macro life without battling current or depth.
Typical Swanage Pier Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Nearest Dive Centres to Swanage Pier
Dive shops near Swanage Pier
Divers Down
Mayim Mermaid Academy
Dorset Diving Services
TAL Scuba Ltd.
Dive Beyond Limited
Old Harbour Dive Centre
Reviews for Swanage Pier
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Swanage Pier
Swanage Pier Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Swanage Pier, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (50.44, -2.73) (3km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
17°C
62°F · Range: 15.1–17.5°C
Air Temperature
13°C
56°F
Wind Speed
8.14 m/s
15.8 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1011 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
Plan & book
Ways to dive Cornwall & Devon, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in Cornwall & DevonPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near Cornwall & Devon.
Search stays in Cornwall & DevonDive 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 Swanage Pier
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
