La Puntica no + - Santa Marta & Tayrona

The Needles, just south of Malgas Island, is a site we keep coming back to, especially when the visibility plays along. It’s a series of rock pinnacles pushing up from the seabed, maxing out at about 13m, making it a fantastic shallow exploration. We typically drop in on the northern side, near the western corner, and let the current (if there is one) dictate our drift. What makes it special for us is that dense kelp forest hugging the rocks. It’s moody, a bit eerie, but incredibly beautiful when sunlight shafts through the fronds. You’ll find puffadder shy sharks tucked into the crevices, their patterns almost disappearing against the mottled rock. Crayfish peek out from under ledges, and we’ve spent many a dive just watching them. For fish, expect to see stompneus and kolsterte schooling through the kelp. Visibility here averages about 4m, but on a good day, it can stretch to double that, and that’s when the Needles really shines. It's a site that rewards patient exploration, perfect for divers who love the details of temperate reefs and aren't put off by a little surge.

Location
Santa Marta & Tayrona, Colombia, South America
Coordinates
9.800000, -75.741600
Type
pinnacle

Marine Protected Area: Los Corales del Rosario y de San Bernardo

Nearby Dive Sites in Santa Marta & Tayrona

Nearest Dive Centres to La Puntica no +

Marine Life in Santa Marta & Tayrona

Home to 533 recorded species including 416 reef fish, 38 hard corals, 17 sharks & rays, 13 other, 9 crabs & lobsters, 7 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at La Puntica no +?
The maximum diving depth at La Puntica no + is 15 meters. This site is known for its beautiful coral structures that lead to deeper waters, offering an exciting experience within recreational dive limits.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at La Puntica no +?
Divers at La Puntica no + can expect a vibrant display of marine life, including soldierfish, surgeonfish, angel, queen angel, lionfish, butterflyfish, moray eels, snappers, and groupers. The site is a pinnacle at the tip of a coral reef, featuring beautiful coral structures that create a stunning landscape connecting with Mangle Island. You'll also encounter a full range of reef minnows among these captivating underwater features.
How challenging is the La Puntica no + dive site for different experience levels?
The La Puntica no + dive site is rated as intermediate in difficulty. This makes it a great option for divers who have some experience beyond their initial certification and are comfortable with various underwater conditions. It offers a rewarding experience for those looking to explore a beautiful coral pinnacle.
What is the best time of year or season to dive at La Puntica no + for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or season to dive at La Puntica no + for optimal conditions. However, the site consistently offers an average visibility of 15 meters. For general information on diving seasons in Colombia, please refer to our When to Dive guide.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at La Puntica no +?
The provided data does not specify any particular diving certifications required for La Puntica no +. Given its intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 15 meters, an Open Water Diver certification is generally sufficient for sites within these parameters. Always check with local dive operators in Santa Marta & Tayrona for their specific requirements.
What are the typical currents and underwater conditions like at La Puntica no +?
At La Puntica no +, divers can typically expect excellent underwater visibility, averaging 15 meters. The site is located at the tip of a coral reef, forming beautiful structures. While specific current information is not provided, its "intermediate" difficulty rating suggests conditions that may occasionally include mild currents.