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Pointe Malendure is a shallow coastal reef point in the Cousteau Reserve.
Pointe Malendure is a shallow coastal reef point in the Cousteau Reserve.
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Pointe Malendure is the shallow coastal point on the Malendure side of the Cousteau Reserve, a relaxed reef dive that works well for first checks and easy guided outings. The route runs over scattered rock heads and sand with gorgonians, sponges, and plenty of tropical fish, and it can be extended as a gentle drift toward nearby sites when the sea is settled. It is best treated as a beginner-friendly shore dive with busy beach logistics rather than a remote adventure. Turtles, angelfish, morays, and other reef species are realistic here when conditions are calm.
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
0m - 18m
Depth Note
Shallow coastal point over sand with scattered rock heads; some route variants continue as a drift toward nearby reserve sites.
Best Season
December to April
Typical Conditions
Sheltered leeward water usually stays calm near shore, with better clarity after settled weather; the point can feel busier and more open farther out.
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Safety Notes
This site can be dived as a drift; plan for current management and appropriate pickup/exit logistics.
Access Restrictions
Parking can fill early in high season and local buses are infrequent, so plan an early arrival.
Legal Notes
Reserve rules apply: no fishing or collecting, no touching corals or marine life, and use fixed moorings rather than anchoring.
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
A good beginner scuba site with shallow rock heads, enough relief for a relaxed reef circuit, and optional drift style on the right day.
Freediving
Only sensible for experienced breath-hold divers in very calm water; this is primarily a scuba and snorkel site.
Snorkeling
The shore-side shallows and reserve edge can work well for calm-water snorkeling, especially when the beach is not choppy.
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.
Last Updated
Research Sources
Spot page with current and visibility review signals.
Beach-based club, boats, and reserve diving logistics.
Coastal-site depth, beginner access, and gorgonian/sponge coverage.
Reserve access, sheltered conditions, rules, visibility, and wildlife.
Shore-dive footage and marine life notes for Pointe Malendure.
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