Three Pools

Also known as: 3 Pools

Three Pools lies about 300 m south of Moray Garden, and its entry and exit run through three natural sandy pools in the reef plate, 3 to 4 m deep and joined by coral saddles, which are easiest to pass at high tide. Outside the third and largest pool a young Napoleon wrasse is often waiting, and a sandy alley lined with brain, pipe and salad corals leads to a coral garden of massive pore corals and scattered small pinnacles at about 15 to 20 m. A resident turtle patrols the area, and Picasso triggerfish, morays, rays, giant pufferfish, barracuda and squid are regular sightings, while crocodilefish, scorpionfish, stonefish, sea moths and octopus hide on the sandy patches. The final part of the dive stays shallow among coral blocks that glow red in the sunlight, and the shallow profile makes it a good choice for a second or third dive. It suits all levels and can be extended north to Moray Garden by divers who are good on air.