Southern Head Reef

Best months: Aug–Oct

Protected Area

Machias Seal Island Migratory Bird Sanctuary

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 - Southern Head 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

StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

Southern Head Reef offers a look at Nova Scotia’s cooler water corals. While not the tropical explosion of color some expect, it’s a site for those keen to explore unique Atlantic ecosystems. You’ll find a surprising amount of invertebrate life clinging to the reef structure. It's a good spot for divers looking for something a bit different in Canadian waters.

Safety Notes

Cold water this month (avg 15°C). Drysuit or thick wetsuit (7mm+) recommended.

Today06:3717:5411h 17m daylightGolden hour 17:15

Reviews for Southern Head Reef

Conditions

Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Southern Head Reef

Southern Head Reef Ocean Conditions

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