Shoal Bay Reef

Type:

Scuba Diving

Entry:Unknown

Difficulty:Beginner

Tags:

Reef

About This Dive Spot

Shoal Bay Reef is a reef dive with varied relief, including a shallow section around 5 m that adds structure and places to explore. The average depth is about 18 m, making it approachable for Open Water divers while still interesting for more experienced divers. Visibility is typically 10–30 m, supporting clear views of reef life such as crayfish, eels, lobsters, and southern stingrays.

Planning details

Reported depth and seasonality.

Reported depth

5m - 18m

Depth note

Includes a shallow area around 5 m with an average depth of 18 m.

Typical conditions

Visibility is reported around 10–30 m.

Local intel

Community notes to help plan your visit.

Tailored notes for different activities.

Scuba

Average depth around 18 m, suitable for Open Water divers and more experienced divers.

Dive Spot Log Averages

Average conditions based on logged dives & visits

No community dive data has been logged here yet. Be the first to record a dive and seed the averages.

Dive Conditions Planner

Current snapshot, today hourly conditions, and seven-day planning data.

Current snapshot

Right now

--🌥️Variable

Weekly trends

Marine rhythm

Surface outlook

Unlock the full potential of DiveJourney.

Recent Logged Visits

No Dive Logs Yet

Be the first to log a dive at this spot and share your experience!

Spots Near Shoal Bay Reef

📍 2.4 km

Frenchman'S Reef

Not Set

Frenchman’s Reef lies off the western end of Anguilla and features coral heads and rock formations. The site has a flatter section around 10 m and then drops to about 25 m.

📍 2.9 km

Captain Turtle

Not Set

Captain Turtle is a dive site known for frequent sea turtle encounters and sightings of nurse sharks, including individuals resting on the bottom. The site spans shallow to moderate depths, offering a range that can work for newer divers as well as those with more experience.

📍 3.1 km

Beacon

Not Set

This reef dive features a varied underwater layout with a shallow plateau, trenches, and a steeper section with cliffs and small caves. The route starts around 7 m on a broad shelf and follows trenches out to a drop-off near 20 m. Along the reef and within the trenches, divers can look for a range of marine life, including small critters tucked into the terrain.

📍 4.7 km

Little Bay

Not Set

Little Bay is a shallow reef dive site off Anguilla’s northern coast. It sits around 6 m depth with warm water and minimal current. Divers can encounter colorful corals and a mix of reef fish, including grunts, barracuda, snappers, angelfish, trumpetfish, parrotfish, and blue tang, along with plentiful lobsters.

📍 5.3 km

Mv Commerce

⚓

The MV Commerce wreck is located at a depth of 45 meters and serves as an artificial reef. Divers can expect to see barracudas, hogfish, goatfish, spadefish, various types of rays, and large lobsters in the ship's structure. The ship's stern propeller is still intact, providing additional points of interest.

📍 9.0 km

Catheley H

Not Set

Catheley H is a partially intact cargo ship wreck in Crocus Bay near Sandy Island. The 33 m steel vessel was intentionally sunk in 1993 after a fire the year before. Sitting around 18 m, the wreck structure provides shelter for marine life such as fish, spiny lobsters, octopus, and rays.

Loading nearby spots...

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best entry point at Shoal Bay Reef?

Entry at Shoal Bay Reef is detailed in the spot description above. Look for specific landmarks, access paths, and any tide or condition requirements. Local divers often share updated entry tips in their dive logs.

What conditions are best for diving Shoal Bay Reef?

Optimal conditions at Shoal Bay Reef depend on several factors including tide, wind, and season. Check recent dive logs for current condition reports and patterns. Generally, calmer seas and high tide provide better visibility and easier entry.

What is the maximum depth and typical visibility at Shoal Bay Reef?

Depth and visibility information for Shoal Bay Reef can be found in the spot details and recent dive logs. Conditions can vary significantly based on weather, tide, and season. Always plan your dive according to current conditions and your certification level.

Are there any safety considerations or local etiquette at Shoal Bay Reef?

When diving Shoal Bay Reef, respect local regulations, marine life, and other water users. Be aware of any specific hazards like currents or boat traffic mentioned in the spot description. Follow Leave No Trace principles and local diving etiquette.