

Best for intermediate divers, 5-35m, boat entry, mild current.
Palm Slope is a versatile boat dive located 800 metres off Baby Beach and Colorado Point, Aruba. This site features a mix of reef, drift, and wreck topography ranging from 5 to 35 metres in depth. Divers encounter mild currents and visibility between 10 and 30 metres. Water temperatures typically range from 26 to 28 degrees Celsius, though a thermocline can cause sudden temperature drops at depth. Due to consistent boat traffic, the use of a surface marker buoy is essential for all ascents. The site is suitable for intermediate divers who should avoid contact with sharp coral in shallower areas.
12.46878, -69.98538
Deploy your SMB before ascending, as boat traffic in this area is consistent and crews may not spot divers without a visible marker. Be cautious of the thermocline at depth, which can surprise less experienced open water divers with a sudden temperature shift.
Access info coming soon
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Depth
5-35m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
26-28°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
50 min
Species recorded around this area include Great Barracuda, French Angelfish, Queen Angelfish, Flying Gurnard, Spotted Scorpionfish, Brazilian Reef Octopus, Indian Lionfish, Chain Moray, Green Moray, Spotted Moray, Blue Tang, Smooth Trunkfish, Stoplight Parrotfish, and various wrasses.
No, this site is rated for intermediate divers. It requires solid buoyancy control and awareness of depth, thermoclines, and boat traffic.
The site ranges from 5 to 35 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.
Palm Slope is a boat dive located 800 metres from shore; a boat charter is required to access the site.
This site is designated for diving and requires boat access, making it unsuitable for casual snorkelling.
Diving at Palm Slope in Santa Cruz requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Palm Slope in Santa Cruz. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Palm Slope in Santa Cruz. Water temperatures range from 26°C to 28°C.
Palm Slope in Santa Cruz typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Palm Slope in Santa Cruz typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.