This dive site, Mermaid Reef, is a popular shore dive located off Sunset House in Grand Cayman. Its main attraction is an iconic mermaid statue, which serves as an easy navigation point. Divers typically enter through the sea pool, swim directly out the cut, and follow the sandy area to reach the statue. This site exemplifies the shallow reef environments characteristic of this part of the island, offering a relaxed and accessible dive experience. The presence of the statue makes it a memorable and easily identifiable location.
The reef features coral fingers running perpendicular to the shore, providing habitats for a variety of Caribbean reef fish such as parrotfish, angelfish, and snapper. Keep an eye out for smaller marine life like crabs, shrimps, and nudibranchs among the corals. Juvenile fish are also common in the shallower areas, and you might spot occasional green sea turtles or stingrays gliding over the sandy patches.
Mermaid Reef is an excellent year-round dive, with the Cayman Islands generally offering warm waters and high visibility. It is particularly suitable for new divers due to its shallow depths and straightforward navigation. Freedivers will also find the site appealing for its clear waters and accessible statue. The site is perfect for underwater photography, especially macro subjects among the corals and wide-angle shots of the mermaid statue with divers.
