As winter begins to loosen its grip on the Cornish coast, spring brings a noticeable change both above and below the surface at Porthkerris.
Located on the eastern side of the The Lizard, the bay starts to come alive with clearer days, calmer seas and increasing marine activity, making it one of the most exciting times of year to get back into the water.
Spring diving in Cornwall can be wonderfully varied. Conditions often improve rapidly through March, April and May, with longer daylight hours and more settled weather patterns replacing the winter storms. Sea temperatures are still cool, typically ranging between 9°C and 12°C, but visibility can be excellent after periods of calm weather. Early season dives frequently offer some of the clearest water of the year around the reefs and gullies of Drawna Rock, the famous shore dive directly accessible from Porthkerris beach.
One of the biggest rewards of spring diving is the return of marine life activity after the quieter winter months. Kelp forests begin to recover and grow, creating shelter for juvenile fish and crustaceans. Divers can expect to see wrasse becoming more active, along with cuttlefish returning closer to shore to breed. Spider crabs begin gathering in larger numbers across the seabed, while anemones, soft corals and sponges add colour to the underwater landscape.
The reefs around Porthkerris and nearby The Manacles are also well known for their rich marine biodiversity. The area supports a wide variety of species thanks to its rocky reef systems, underwater gullies and nutrient-rich Atlantic waters.
Above the surface, spring on the Lizard Peninsula is equally impressive. The coastline begins to brighten with wildflowers and fresh green landscapes, while seabirds become increasingly active along the cliffs. Calm mornings on the bay can be particularly special, with occasional sightings of seals, dolphins and even basking sharks later in the season.
For shore divers, spring is often considered one of the best times to visit Porthkerris. The site is generally quieter than during the peak summer months, allowing divers to enjoy relaxed access to the water and peaceful underwater conditions. Whether you are returning for your first dive of the season, completing training dives or simply exploring Cornwall’s coastline underwater, spring offers a perfect balance of improving weather, active marine life and excellent visibility.
At Porthkerris Divers, the start of spring always marks the beginning of another exciting diving season on the Lizard coast.
