Thunder Cliff Cave

Thundercliff Cave consists of two caves and is located on Christmas Island. This is one of the best dive sites in Christmas Island. The second cave has a big open chamber that serves as an entrance. That one is noted for a hanging shroud formation and is filled of stalagmites and stalactites. After removing your diving gear, you can explore this cave on land. Thundercliff Cave's entrance is underwater, so you must first descend six meters to a corrugated sandy bottom, then swim into the gloom through an almost Gothic archway. Once inside Thundercliff Cave, there is a big air pocket where you can surface.

Thundercliff Cave is open to diving all year, but the monsoon season runs from December to April. The usual water temperature is between 24 and 28 degrees Celsius (75 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit). Divers can explore a tunnel leading to a cathedral cave by diving during high tide.

At the bottom of Thundercliff Cave lies a colorful reef with a variety of species, including butterflyfish, velvet surgeonfish, and angelfish. Grouper, snapper, and barracudas are among the larger species found at this dive site. The enormous limestone cavern has a stunning collection of stalactites that dangle from the ceiling like Gaudi-style chandeliers. This nearly surreal scene also features a smaller tunnel that leads to a second huge room, where you can take a breather.

Best for: Beginner-level divers with cave certification.