Along the south coast of Tobago are three dives sites. From east to west, they are Cove Reef, Flying Reef and Stingray Alley. Coral reefs in this area are gently sloping and exposed to high currents. These are the haunts of large schools of reef fish including grunts and chub.
SOUTHSIDE REEFS, TOBAGO
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Iguana Bay is located north of Charlotteville and can only be accessed by boat. Although there are coral communities, there is little structure, likely because of the exposed wave environment. It is home to some colonies of the incredible rare Acropora cervicornis.
Landslide reef runs along the eastern margin of Man-O-War Bay from Pirates Bay out towards Breakfast Bay. This is a shallow fringing reef dominated by hard and soft corals growing along submerged rocks. It is home to rare branching Elkhorn coral.
Mt Irvine Bay is a popular spot for surfing and diving in southwest Tobago. Mt Irvine reef, also known as the Flying Dutchman, extends out to the eastern headland. This fringing reef transitions from soft coral to hard coral as you move out from the bay. The back end of Mt Irvine reef is Mt Irvine Wall, which has a few swim throughs and overhangs where schools of fish hang out.
Sanga Rock is located in north Charlotteville. The sheltered side of Sanga Rock is home to a unique coral reef dominant in boulder and brain corals. Divers swim around Sanga Rock and explore the walls that are encrusted with the beautiful non-native sun cup corals that resemble bunches of yellow flowers.
Located off Speyside, Goat Island features a house nestled between two giant rocks. Coral reefs wrap right around the island. The most famous reef is called Angel Reef, which lies along the western bay; it is dominant in hard corals and is one of the more biodiverse reefs on the island. Japanese Gardens on the south side of the island is well-known for its colourful sponge communities.
Little Tobago is the larger island located in Speyside Bay. This island is home to marvels both above and below the water including one of the largest brain corals in the Western Hemisphere. Coral reefs encircle Little Tobago. The island is an important nesting site for marine birds, including the Red-billed Tropic Bird.