Overview:

Cades Reef is one of the most popular reefs in Antigua-and-Barbuda. It is located near the south of Pinney’s Beach and is made up of a stunning array of creamy coral, vibrant marine life, and crystal-clear water. Here, divers can find an impressive array of sponges, crevices, canyons, and reef-life that make the diving experience spectacular. On the reef’s varied terrain, you might spot colorful fish, crabs, and lobster, and may get lucky enough to get a glimpse of the larger sea creatures such as tuna, sharks, and turtles. Cades Reef is the perfect place to go snorkeling during the day, or on a night dive with your dive buddy! It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Antigua-and-Barbuda
Prominent Features:

1. Varied Marine Life: Cades Reef in Antigua-and-Barbuda is home to an abundant variety of marine life, including species such as parrotfish, barracuda, and turtles. 2. Visibility: The clarity of the water is excellent, allowing divers to easily observe the beauty and diversity of the reef's inhabitants. 3. Sponges and Corals: A variety of sponges and corals are visible on the reef, providing a vivid spectrum of colors. 4. Depth: The reef is deep enough for both skilled and novice divers, with depths varying from 15 meters (49 feet) along the western reef to up to 30 meters (98 feet) in the north. 5. Structures: There are several distinctive rock structures "fingers" and "spires" beneath the surface, making it an interesting and intricate dive site. 6. History: The reef has been a popular dive spot since the 1950s and has long been the go-to spot for visitors looking to experience marine life in Antigua-and-Barbuda. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Antigua-and-Barbuda.

History:

Cades Reef, located off the coast of Antigua and Barbuda, is a protected reef system that is home to an amazing array of marine life. It is believed to have been discovered by the Spanish explorer Alonso de Sotomayor in 1520 and according to historical accounts, it was an important source of food and supplies for islanders, fishermen and sailors alike. It was also reportedly home to a village of sorts within the shallower coves. In 1967, Cades Reef was designated a natural monument and henceforth protected by the national government of Antigua and Barbuda. The reef was further recognised in 2000 when it was declared an Important Bird Area, being home to many species of sea birds and shorebirds. It is also an important spawning and feeding site for a variety of commercially important fish species. The government of Antigua and Barbuda also enacted legislation in 2009 making it the first nation in the Caribbean to create a marine reserve specifically for the protection and conservation of Cades Reef. This legislation established regulations for recreational activities, fishing practices and other activities taking place within the boundaries of the reserve. Today, Cades Reef remains an important part of Antigua and Barbuda's vibrant marine and coastal environment. Its protected ecosystem serves as a crucial habitat that supports numerous species of hard and soft corals, aquatic plants, sea turtles, mammals, birds and numerous other marine lifestyles. It offers visitors the opportunity for both ecotourism and recreational activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking and fishing. Visit one of the famous monuments of Antigua-and-Barbuda with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Cades Reef is the largest coral reef in the Lesser Antilles. It consists of four separate reefs, located off the coast of the islands of Antigua and Barbuda. 2. Cades Reef is home to over 225 coral species and over 600 species of fish including parrot fish, angelfish, wrasses, groupers, snappers, and grunts. 3. The average water temperature averages between 26-29ºC, which is perfect for diving and snorkeling. 4. It is also known for its shipwrecks, which occurred here due to turbulent weather and dangerous reef structures. 5. The reef is part of the Antiguan National Park and is protected as a marine reserve. 6. Cades Reef is a popular destination for surfers, divers, snorkelers, and recreational boaters, who come to enjoy its warm waters and abundant wildlife. One of the historical monuments of Antigua-and-Barbuda, it tells the story of a bygone era