

Best for beginner divers, 2-18m, shore entry, mild current.
Martini Cove, also known as The Aquarium, is a sheltered reef site in San Carlos Bay suitable for both diving and snorkelling. Divers and snorkellers access the site via shore entry, though it is also reachable by kayak or boat. The site features depths ranging from 2 to 18 metres, with an average of 7 metres. Visibility typically spans 10 to 20 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate between 18C and 29C, with chilly thermoclines possible at depth. Hazards include boat traffic, surge, and the presence of stonefish. Species recorded around this area include California sea lions, king angelfish, Panamic green moray, triggerfish, groupers, pufferfish, round stingrays, scorpionfish, wrasses, rock cod, whiptail stingrays, arrow crabs, and porcupinefish.
27.94180, -111.04450
Best lighting for photography is during midday, and wide-angle lenses are recommended for reef shots.
Boat, kayak or hike to Martini Cove.
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Depth
Up to 18m
Visibility
10-20m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
18-29°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Species recorded around this area include California sea lions, king angelfish, Panamic green moray, triggerfish, groupers, pufferfish, round stingrays, scorpionfish, wrasses, rock cod, whiptail stingrays, arrow crabs, and porcupinefish.
Yes, Martini Cove is rated as suitable for beginner divers and snorkellers.
The depth ranges from 2 to 18 metres, with an average depth of 7 metres.
The site is accessible via shore entry, though it can also be reached by kayak or boat.
Yes, this site is highly rated for snorkelling with a 5/5 rating.
Diving at Martini Cove (The Aquarium) in San Carlos requires the following certifications: Intermediate. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Martini Cove (The Aquarium) in San Carlos. Water temperatures range from 18°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit Martini Cove (The Aquarium) in San Carlos are May, June, July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Divers at Martini Cove (The Aquarium) in San Carlos should be aware of stonefish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Martini Cove (The Aquarium) in San Carlos typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Martini Cove (The Aquarium) in San Carlos typically ranges from 10 metres to 20 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.