Dale McDowell Reef AR-445 - Buoy
Protected Area
Bald Head Island State Natural Area
Why dive here
With 42+ marine species recorded in the area - including sea turtles - Dale McDowell Reef AR-445 - Buoy offers some of North Carolina's richest reef diving. Water ranges 12-28°C, warmest July, August, September.
The Dale McDowell Reef AR-445 is a typical North Carolina artificial reef, consisting of various materials dropped to create habitat. You'll find concrete culverts and discarded tires, attracting smaller reef fish like sheepshead and snapper. It’s generally a shallower dive, making it a good spot for newer divers or those looking for an easy second tank. Expect moderate visibility and currents depending on the day.
Typical Dale McDowell Reef AR-445 - Buoy Dive Profile
Illustrative profile based on site depth and type. Actual dive profiles vary - always follow your dive computer and training.
Safety Notes
Always perform a 3-minute safety stop at 5m before surfacing.
Nearest Dive Centres to Dale McDowell Reef AR-445 - Buoy
Dive shops near Dale McDowell Reef AR-445 - Buoy
View all dive centres in North CarolinaReviews for Dale McDowell Reef AR-445 - Buoy
Conditions
Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Dale McDowell Reef AR-445 - Buoy
Dale McDowell Reef AR-445 - Buoy Ocean Conditions
Monthly averages for Dale McDowell Reef AR-445 - Buoy, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (34.6, -76.6) (0km away)
October Averages
Sea Temperature
23°C
73°F · Range: 19.9–26.4°C
Air Temperature
20°C
67°F
Wind Speed
1.8 m/s
3.5 knots
Atmospheric Pressure
1016.7 hPa
Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data
Plan & book
Ways to dive North Carolina, from day trips to liveaboards.
Day trips & courses
via GetYourGuideGuided dives, courses and snorkel trips with instant booking.
Find dive trips in North CarolinaPlaces to stay
via Booking.comHotels and dive resorts near North Carolina.
Search stays in North CarolinaDive 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 Dale McDowell Reef AR-445 - Buoy
Prices from Booking.com. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.