Dive Site: Split Coral Head

About Split Coral Head

Split Coral Head is a notable dive site located in Eleuthera, Bahamas, celebrated for its impressive coral formations and the distinctive split in a massive coral head from which it derives its name. This site offers divers a visual spectacle, particularly on sunny days when the light illuminates the crystal-clear Bahamian waters and unique topography. The site is characterized by large, complex coral structures that are home to a variety of reef inhabitants. One central feature is a substantial coral head with a prominent split or channel running through it, large enough for divers to swim through. This geological feature, combined with the surrounding vibrant coral gardens, creates an engaging underwater landscape. Marine life sightings at Split Coral Head frequently include various shark species, great barracuda, and schools of jacks. Groupers, such as tiger grouper and Nassau grouper, are also commonly observed taking refuge within the formations. The site is part of the Eleuthera diving experience, which is known for its walls, healthy reef systems, and diverse species. Diving here typically involves exploring the impressive coral formations, navigating through the signature split, and observing the resident marine fauna. With excellent visibility often exceeding 30 meters (100 feet), divers can fully appreciate the scale and beauty of this unique Bahamian site, often as part of a liveaboard itinerary exploring both the Exumas and Eleuthera.

Dive site facts: Split Coral Head

Depth

14–17 m

Typical dive

14 m, 60+ min

Current

Mild

Visibility

30+ m

Water temperature

24–29°C (75–84°F)

Entry

Liveaboard tender

Level

Open Water Diver

Dive type

Reef, topography, pelagics

Region / port

Eleuthera, Bahamas

Coordinates

25.1000° N, 76.3300° W

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Split Coral Head are generally manageable, although the broader Eleuthera region can experience drift dives. The site's protected location among coral structures likely minimizes direct exposure to strong flows, contributing to its suitability for various diver levels. Visibility at Split Coral Head is consistently excellent, often reaching 30 meters (100 feet) or more, providing clear views of the extensive coral formations and marine life. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, but can vary slightly depending on the season, ranging from 24-29°C (75-84°F). Divers should always monitor local conditions, as even in stable environments, unexpected changes can occur.

Marine life & sighting chances

Reef Shark

Year-round · common

Great Barracuda

common

Jack

common

Tiger Grouper

common

Nassau Grouper

common

French Angelfish

occasional

Sea Cucumber

occasional

Flamingo Tongue Snail

occasional

Atlantic Spadefish

occasional

Conch

occasional

Arrowhead Crab

rare

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Split Coral Head typically begin with a descent to the top of the main coral structure, often around 14 meters (46 feet) in depth. Divers then navigate towards the prominent split in the giant coral head, which is wide enough to swim through and offers dramatic views upwards towards the surface. The maximum depth reached during an average dive is about 17 meters (56 feet), keeping it well within recreational limits. The route commonly involves exploring the perimeters of the large coral formations, observing resident fish like groupers and barracuda, and watching for cruising reef sharks. Divers often spend over an hour exploring this site due to its intricate topography and vibrant marine life. The safety stop is conducted as usual, often near the shallower sections of the coral head, allowing for a gradual ascent and final observation of the reef.

Underwater photography

Split Coral Head is an exceptional location for wide-angle photography, especially when capturing the grandeur of the coral formations and the signature split. A fisheye lens is ideal for emphasizing the scale of the structure and the clear, sunlit water. Given the excellent visibility and bright Bahamian sunshine, photographers will find ample natural light, though strobes are recommended to bring out the true colors of the coral and fish. The frequent presence of reef sharks, barracuda, and schools of jacks offers great opportunities for capturing marine megafauna against the stunning reef backdrop. When framing shots, remember to incorporate the deep blue background characteristic of Eleuthera's walls to enhance depth. Maintaining excellent buoyancy is crucial to avoid contact with the fragile corals and to compose stable shots.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Monolith Wall

  Monolith Wall is found within the dramatic Exuma Cays, offering divers a captivating exploration of an underwater abyss.

• Premo Wall

  Premo Wall is a prominent dive site situated off the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, recognized for its dramatic underwater topography.

• Jakes Hole

  Jakes Hole is a notable dive site located in the southern end of Eleuthera, an island within the Bahamas archipelago.

• Cobia Cage

  The Cobia Cage off Eleuthera in the Bahamas presents a truly unique underwater landscape.

• Krakens Lair

  Krakens Lair is a notable dive site situated among the Eleuthera Cays in the Bahamas, recognized for its distinct underwater topography and…

• Crab Wall

  Crab Wall is a prominent deep wall dive site in the Bahamas, specifically mentioned as part of the Exuma Cays itinerary for liveaboards.

Getting there & logistics

Split Coral Head is typically accessed via liveaboard trips that depart from Nassau, Bahamas. These week-long itineraries often combine diving in the Exumas and Eleuthera, returning to Nassau. Major international airports like Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau provide convenient access for travelers from the US, Canada, and Europe. Liveaboards are the preferred method for exploring remote sites like Split Coral Head, as many of Eleuthera's best dive locations are beyond the range of day boats. No specific permits beyond standard dive certifications are typically required for diving this site, though liveaboard fees cover all diving logistics.

Safety & environment

While diving Split Coral Head, general dive safety protocols apply. The nearest recompression chamber would typically be in Nassau, which is also a common port for liveaboards in the region. Divers should always carry appropriate dive insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation. Site-specific hazards are minimal due to generally mild currents and excellent visibility, but divers should always remain aware of their surroundings, particularly when swimming through the coral split to avoid bumping against the rock. Respecting marine life, especially sharks and barracuda, by maintaining a respectful distance and avoiding sudden movements, ensures a safe encounter. Adhering to depth and bottom time limits, as briefed by the dive guide, is crucial for a safe and enjoyable dive.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Split Coral Head FAQ

Liveaboards diving Split Coral Head

These liveaboards may visit Split Coral Head on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Blue Marlin

Bahamas

26 guests42 m

$318/day

Bahamas Aggressor II

Bahamas

20 guests33.5 m

$328/day

All Star Aqua Cat

Bahamas

30 guests31.09 m

$312/day

All Star Cat Ppalu

Bahamas

12 guests20 m

$237/day

All Star Blackbeards Morning Star

Bahamas

24 guests19.81 m

$156/day