Best Time to Dive in Tarkarli & Malvan (2026 Season Guide)

Best Time to Dive in Tarkarli & Malvan (2026 Season Guide)

The sea here changes a lot through the year. Pick the right month and you get calm water and lots of fish. Pick the wrong one and the boats may not even go out. Here is what we see on the water, month by month.

Main Season: October to April

October to April is the best time to dive in Tarkarli and Malvan. This is when we run most of our dives.

Water Conditions

• You can see up to 15 meters underwater.
• The sea is calm, with small waves.
• The water is 24°C to 28°C.
• The weather is steady and the sky is mostly clear.

Marine Life

• There are lots of fish, like angelfish, butterflyfish and parrotfish.
• The corals show their best colors.
• You have a better chance of seeing rays and sea turtles.
• Fish are busy feeding, so there is more to watch.

Monsoon: June to September

We do not recommend diving in the monsoon. Here is why:

• You can often see less than 3 meters.
• The sea is rough and currents are strong.
• Heavy rain makes the water cloudy.
• It is not safe for divers.

Summer: April to May

This is the in-between time. Conditions can go either way:

• You can see about 5 to 8 meters.
• The water is warmer, 28°C to 30°C.
• The sea gets rough some days as the monsoon gets closer.
• There are fewer divers, so the sites are quieter.

Month by Month

October and November

• Visibility is 12 to 15 meters.
• The water is 24 to 26°C.
• The main season starts.
• Good for beginners, because the sea is calm.

December and January

• These are our best months.
• You can often see 15 meters or more.
• The water is 24 to 25°C.
• It is holiday season, so book early.

February and March

• Conditions stay very good.
• The water warms up to 26 to 28°C.
• Clear water makes it a good time for photos.
• A good time for experienced divers.

Weather Tips

Wind

• From October to April, winds come from the northeast. They keep the sea calm.
• From April to September, winds come from the southwest. They make the sea rough.
• Mornings are usually calmer than afternoons.

Tides

• High tide makes it easier to reach the dive sites.
• At low tide, boats may not reach some spots.
• Spring tides give the best diving.

Planning Your Trip

Booking Tips

• In the main season, book 2 to 4 weeks ahead.
• Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
• Morning dives (8 AM to 12 PM) usually have the best conditions.
• Check the weather forecast before you confirm.

What to Pack

• A thin 3mm wetsuit for the winter months.
• A rash guard for summer.
• Sunscreen. Reef-safe is best.
• An underwater camera, if you have one. The water is clear enough for good shots.

Local Tips

Tarkarli

• Classroom is calm and shallow, so most first dives happen there.
• Godzilla Point and Malkuni Rock are for advanced divers on calm days.
• We pick the site each morning after checking the sea.

Malvan

• The area around Sindhudurg Fort is a special place to dive.
• The coral gardens look their best in the main season.
• The historic sites are worth a visit any time of year.

Staying Safe

Seasonal Safety Tips

• Check the weather before every dive.
• Listen to your instructor about the day's conditions.
• Use the right gear for the water temperature.
• Drink plenty of water, more so in summer.

Be Prepared

• Save local emergency numbers in your phone.
• Know what the weather does in each season.
• Follow the safety rules your dive team gives you.

Our Advice

Come between October and April. The water is clear, the fish are out, and the sea is calm.

If you are new to diving, start with Discover Scuba Diving. If you are certified, book our Fun Dives.

Contact us and we will help you pick a date.