

Best for beginner divers, 6-18m, shore entry, moderate current.
Challaborough Bay is a shore-accessible site in South Devon featuring a reef and kelp forest. The seabed drops from 6 to 18 metres, with an average depth of 5 metres in shallower sections. Visibility typically ranges between 5 and 15 metres. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of moderate currents, rip currents, and a shore break, making mid-tide entries the most manageable. Water temperatures fluctuate between 10C and 17C, requiring appropriate thermal protection. Facilities including parking, toilets, showers, a cafe, and a dive shop are available on site. Night diving is permitted for experienced divers. Species recorded around this area include wrasses, various crabs, sea stars, and nudibranchs.
50.28720, -3.90020
Time your entry carefully around the tidal state, as the shore break and rip currents are the main hazards and are most manageable on a calmer, mid-tide window. A dive shop is on site, so local staff can give you a current briefing before you get in.
Access from the beach which has a gradual gradient and nearby parking, with entry via steps or a slipway.
Recorded at this site
Depth
6-18m
Visibility
5-15m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
10-17°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
40 min
Species recorded around this area include wrasses, compass jellyfish, skates, orange-clubbed nudibranchs, squat lobsters, sea slugs, sea stars, crabs, brittle stars, rock crabs, bluebottles, tompot blennies, spiny spider crabs, and sea hares.
Yes, the site is considered suitable for beginners, though divers must be mindful of the shore break and rip currents during entry.
The depth ranges from 6 to 18 metres, with an average depth of 5 metres in the shallower areas.
Challaborough Bay is a shore entry site, though boat charters are also available in the area.
Yes, the site is suitable for both diving and snorkelling activities.
The primary hazards include boat traffic, rip currents, strong currents, and a shore break. Protective footwear is recommended to avoid injury from sharp rocks when entering from the shore.
Diving at Challaborough Bay in Plymouth requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Challaborough Bay in Plymouth. Water temperatures range from 10°C to 17°C.
Expect moderate currents at Challaborough Bay in Plymouth. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Challaborough Bay in Plymouth typically ranges from 5 metres to 15 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.