The ocean contains so many beautiful mysteries that scuba diving will give you a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience. In this article, we will explore some of the best places for scuba diving around the world.
If you are wondering which destination to choose from when planning your summer vacations, we have a list of 5 Best Places for Scuba Diving around the world that will give you the best experience of the underwater world-
1. GALAPAGOS ISLANDS, ECUADOR
Galapagos Islands has been rated as the top destination for scuba diving for decades. The area offers you an exceptional amount of biodiversity- for example, some endemic species like marine iguana which you will not encounter anywhere else.
Two sites stand out from all the areas- the first is close to Wolf and Darwin Islands where you can see scalloped hammerheads, silky sharks, mantas, and turtles. The second is Punta Vicente Roca, a cold-water dive area, where you will see the unique Mola Mola alongside seahorses, frogfishes, barracuda, and salemas.
However, the place is suitable for skilled scuba divers and those who have a tolerance for cold weather so this is something you will have to consider if you are trying it for the first time.
2. JARDINES DE LA REINA, CUBA
Home to the largest coral system in the world, Jardines De La Reina, or Gardens of the World is among the most famous Caribbean sites for scuba diving. You will encounter more than 50 species of coral and 200 species of sponge. Apart from this, you will also see sharks like a silky Caribbean reef, great hammerhead, lemon, nurse, and blacktip.
This is one of the few areas where you can closely watch the American saltwater crocodile. The diving season is open year-round and has warm water, good weather, and great visibility.
Jardines De La Reina also welcomes all levels of scuba divers.
3. Mainland Mexico
Apart from the food and tourist spots, Mexico has so much to offer you in scuba diving as well. If you visit the east coast then Yucatan Peninsula is the best place to visit. Home to the second largest coral reef, Yucatan has a rich variety of marine life that is hard to find anywhere else.
Cozumel is another diving spot that you can choose. Here you will find myriad corals and sponges along with a vibrant variety of fishes, turtles, and rays. If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, Yucatan’s famous freshwater sinkholes called the cenotes will give you a bizarre experience.
Both Yucatan and Cozumel are perfect year-round for a trip, however, tourist seasons are from November to April. The destination is perfect for all scuba divers but if you are looking for advanced adventures like cavern diving, it is a world-class spot for you.
4. RAJA AMPAT, INDONESIA
The heartland of the richest marine diversity in the world, Raja Ampat is regarded as one of the best scuba diving destinations. If you think Asia will be the better spot for you, this area located at the heart of the Indo-Pacific Coral Triangle will give you a vibrant experience.
If you do not have any issues going scuba diving with stronger currents, Raja Ampat will deliver you an ethereal experience with its rich marine diversity.
Divers will encounter medium to large-size fishes, mantas, and small and large sharks. Cape Kri in the Dampier Strait has the record for maximum fish species spotted at one dive. Boo Windows, Nudi Rock, and Whale Rock are the top areas for spotting soft corals.
5. ANILAO, PHILIPPINES
One of the best spots for underwater photography, Anilao is a good choice for those visiting the Philippines since it is located very close to Manila.
Divers will get to see a range of shrimp, crabs, nudibranchs, small squid, and cuttlefish. Anilao is also a suitable location for beginners since it is comparatively easier. So, if you have never tried scuba diving before, Anilao is the perfect option for you.
The peak tourist season is October to June however April and May are very crowded so you should avoid these months.
Conclusion-
So these were the top-rated scuba diving areas around the world. However, there are many more locations like Fiji, French Polynesia, the Red Sea, and the Socorro Islands in Mexico. Have you visited any of these spots? Hope you liked this list of best places for scuba diving around the world.
