Dive Site: Pina Reef

About Pina Reef

Pina Reef, locally referred to as Pina Banko, is a popular dive site situated off the Turkish city of Kaş. Specifically, it lies on the northwest side of Heybeli Ada island, a short 15-minute boat journey from Kaş harbor. The site is characterized by significant rock formations and a diverse topography, including a shallow sandy plain to the northeast of the island. Depths at Pina Reef typically reach around 25 meters, offering opportunities for a variety of marine encounters. The rocky areas are home to creatures like groupers and pufferfish, while the shallower sandy flats host different species. Visibility here is generally excellent, often ranging between 20 to 30 meters, with an average of 25 meters, providing clear views of the underwater environment. Marine life sightings frequently include green sea turtles, groupers, and various types of pufferfish. The site's diverse habitat, from rocky slopes to sandy bottoms, supports a healthy ecosystem that makes each dive engaging. While currents can sometimes be strong, the site is generally suitable for all levels of divers. Diving at Pina Reef is typically conducted via boat from one of the many dive schools in Kaş. Divers can explore the reef's varied features, enjoying a rich underwater experience that highlights the natural beauty of the Kaş region. The combination of easy access, clear water, and abundant marine life makes Pina Reef a favorite among local and visiting divers.

Dive site facts: Pina Reef

Depth

Up to 25 m

Current

Sometimes strong

Visibility

20–30 m

Entry

Boat

Level

All levels

Dive type

Reef, marine life

Region / port

Kaş, Antalya

Coordinates

36.5350° N, 29.0979° E

Conditions & Currents

While often calm, currents at Pina Reef can sometimes be strong, particularly on the western side of Heybeli Ada island. Divers should be prepared for varying conditions, and dive operators will assess the currents to determine the best approach for entry and exit. Visibility typically ranges from 20 to 30 meters, averaging around 25 meters, offering consistently clear viewing. Water temperatures are pleasant throughout much of the diving season, although thermoclines may occur at deeper depths outside of peak summer months. Entry to the site is exclusively via boat, and careful planning with your dive guide is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all diver levels.

Marine life & sighting chances

Grouper

common

Pufferfish

common

Turtle

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Access to Pina Reef is always by boat, typically a 15-minute ride from Kaş harbor. Divers descend onto the rocky reef on the northwest side of Heybeli Ada island, with depths reaching approximately 25 meters. The dive usually progresses along the rock formations, observing the resident groupers and pufferfish. To the northeast of the island, a shallow sandy plain offers a different habitat to explore. The dive typically involves a gradual ascent along the reef or towards the boat, allowing for observations in varying depth bands. Your guide will indicate the turn point based on air consumption and the planned dive time, ensuring a comfortable return. The safety stop is usually performed in the shallower sections of the reef or along the boat's line, providing an opportunity to spot additional marine life before surfacing.

Underwater photography

Pina Reef offers clear visibility, making it suitable for both wide-angle and macro photography. For capturing the general topography of the rocky reef and any passing turtles, a wide-angle lens is recommended. If focusing on the resident groupers, pufferfish, or smaller reef inhabitants, a macro lens will be beneficial. External strobes can help bring out the vibrant colors of the Mediterranean marine life, especially at deeper points. Good buoyancy control is always essential to avoid disturbing the sandy bottom or damaging the reef formations, ensuring clear shots and preserving the environment.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Heybeli Ada Reef

  Pina Reef is located on the northwest side of Heybeli Ada island.

• Amphora Corner

  Another site in the Kovan islands area, known for ancient artifacts.

• Oasis reef

  A rock formation rising from a sandy bottom, also in the Kovan islands area.

• Anchor Reef

  Known for numerous anchors and diverse marine life, accessible from Kaş.

Getting there & logistics

Diving at Pina Reef typically originates from Kaş, a town in Antalya province, Turkey. The nearest major airport is Antalya Airport (AYT), from which travelers can reach Kaş by bus or private transfer. Dive trips to Pina Reef are exclusively day boat excursions, with the site being approximately 15 minutes by boat from Kaş harbor. Most local dive centers in Kaş offer daily trips. There are no specific permits or park fees mentioned for diving this site. A typical dive itinerary usually includes two dives per day, often combining Pina Reef with another nearby site in the Kaş area.

Safety & environment

For diving at Pina Reef, emergency medical facilities and recompression chambers would be located in larger urban centers like Antalya. In case of a diving emergency, evacuation procedures would involve initial stabilization by the dive boat crew, transport back to Kaş harbor, and then onward land transport to a medical facility. Dive insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation is strongly recommended for all divers. While Pina Reef is generally considered suitable for all levels, divers should be aware that currents can sometimes be strong, particularly on the western side of Heybeli Ada island. Always follow your dive guide's instructions, maintain proper buoyancy, and adhere to planned dive profiles.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Pina Reef FAQ

Liveaboards diving Pina Reef

These liveaboards may visit Pina Reef on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Okyanus JD

Turkey

12 guests24 m

$157/day