What makes 18 Palm a great site to dive is the nice sandy beach entry. No broken up coral or sharp rocks. Suit up on a bench, not the back or a truck, and when you get back there are 2 outside showers to rinse off. There are also 2 buoy markers at 10 and 20 feet. Underneath the 20 foot marker is a square PVC pipe to better mark the entry/exit.   We've stayed at the Plaza 5 times (going on 6 in July 2009) and to the island 6 times (going on 7 in July 2009). When staying at the Plaza we often found ourselves diving the site at least 3 times or more during our stay. Found frog fish, seahorses, octopus, Southern Sting Rays, Tarpon, various eels, large puffer-fish and other usual suspects.   During our stay and dives there it is very common to meet other divers from other resorts diving the site. Upon their return we often hear very positive reviews on the site. Not only condition of the reef and marine life but of the entry/exit be very easy.  (On the downside) If your not staying at The Plaza the only disadvantage is the distance from car parking lot to the beach itself. Have seen many divers park on the side of the Plaza where their employees park and go in that way which cuts down the distance some of hauling diving equipment.  Hope this helps, Neptune Nick

18 Palm is located at The Plaza Resort and is their 'house reef.'  The Plaza is located next to the airport and divers not staying at the resort are allowed to dive it.

18 Palm

We dove 18 palms June 2011.  We specifically were looking for the seahorse that lives on the reef.  The entry is incredibly easy, right off the resort.  The visibility was great with no current to speak of. The reef is slightly over-dived as it is the house reef but still there is lots of stag coral, juvenile drum and sponges.

M&M's Dive Log

@mm

1 dives