Palm Cay
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.
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.
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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)
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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