Malpelo Island, Colombia
    Old Providence Mc Bean Lagoon

    Palm Cay

    Best months: Jan–Apr

    Protected Area

    Old Providence Mc Bean Lagoon

    Why dive here

    With 71+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda and pufferfish - Palm Cay offers some of Malpelo Island's richest reef diving. Water ranges 28-30°C, warmest September, October, November.

    Best timeJan–Apr
    WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit
    Marine lifeBarracuda and Pufferfish · 71+ species recorded
    Water28-30°C · warmest September, October, November
    CharacterReef dive

    Palm Cay is one of those spots where you just know, as soon as you descend, you’re in for something special. We love how the reef just seems to explode with colour, particularly the Lowridge Cactus Coral and Great Star Coral, forming these incredible structures that feel ancient and alive all at once. It’s not about pelagics here, not primarily anyway. This site is for the diver who delights in the intricate details, the quiet observations. You’ll find yourself hovering, mesmerised by the sheer volume of smaller reef fish – Olive Chromis schooling so tightly they shimmer like a single organism, and Trunkfish darting about with their curious, almost comical movements. Keep an eye out for the Whitespotted Filefish, they’re masters of camouflage against the coral. The Spinyhead Blenny also makes for a good photo opportunity if you’re patient. We've found the best light is usually mid-morning, illuminating the corals without too much glare. It’s a site that rewards slow diving, allowing you to really soak in the rich tapestry of life playing out on the reef.

    Today06:1618:1011h 54m daylightGolden hour 17:42

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Palm Cay

    Palm Cay Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Palm Cay, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (12.4, -81.47) (108km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    30°C

    86°F · Range: 29.3–31.3°C

    Current Speed

    13.42 cm/s

    Direction: NE (63.4°)

    Chlorophyll-a

    0.094 mg/m³

    Very clear (oligotrophic)

    Salinity

    34.38 PSU

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)

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