Dunn Reef

Best months: Aug–Oct

Protected Area

Musquodoboit Harbour

Why dive here

With 77+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue sharks, dwarf minke whales, humpback whales, ocean sunfish (mola mola) and jellyfish lake - Dunn Reef offers some of Nova Scotia's richest reef diving. Water ranges 1-17°C, warmest August, September, October.

Best timeAug–Oct

WetsuitA 7mm wetsuit with a hood

Marine lifeBlue Sharks, Dwarf Minke Whales, Humpback Whales, Ocean Sunfish (Mola Mola) and Jellyfish Lake · 77+ species recorded

Water1-17°C · warmest August, September, October

CharacterReef dive · max 5-20m

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

Dunn Reef, off the coast of Nova Scotia, offers a solid day out for temperate water divers. You'll find a lively mix of species here, from the surprisingly colourful lumpsuckers tucked into rocky crevices to the familiar scuttling of common shore crabs. Keep an eye out for winter skates gliding across the bottom and the distinct shapes of Forbes sea stars clinging to the rocks. It’s a good spot for divers keen to explore the unique ecosystems of Canada’s Atlantic, especially those who appreciate the smaller, more resilient creatures thriving in cooler waters.

Typical Dunn Reef 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 15°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.

Today06:2217:3911h 17m daylightGolden hour 16:59

Nearest Dive Centres to Dunn Reef

Dive shops near Dunn Reef

Torpedo Rays Scuba Adventures

36km away

Web

Courses

East Coast Scuba and Watersports

41km away

Phone

View all dive centres in Nova Scotia

Reviews for Dunn Reef

Conditions

Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Dunn Reef

Dunn Reef Ocean Conditions

Monthly averages for Dunn Reef, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (44.6, -63.5) (0km away)