Central America is a very narrow isthmus of southern North America extending from Mexico to Panama.
The appeal of Ambergris Caye as the main diving destination in Belize is that it lies close to the world’s largest blue hole and the Belize Barrier Reef System, a 186-mile (300km) portion of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. While the Blue Hole should only be dived by those with an advanced certification due to its depth, the Belize Barrier Reef is perfect for...
Gorgeous Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker are right offshore, only a quick boat ride away. Some of the most astounding dives in the Caribbean can be accomplished from Belize City, with its easy access to the Belize Barrier Reef. You’ll also be able to reach the Blue Hole and Shark Ray Alley within a day trip.Closer to the city itself, you’ll find plenty of canyons...
Puntarenas can refer to both the city of Puntarenas and the province of Puntarenas. For the purpose of this article, we will discuss the scuba diving throughout the province of Puntarenas which ranges from the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula along the Pacific Coast to the border with Panama. Don’t expect to find pristine coral reefs here. Diving in the Pacific...
With a central location and good facilities, most of the diving in Guanacaste is centered in Playas del Coco. The diving in this part of the Pacific Ocean is excellent, but don’t expect to see pristine corals or excellent visibility. The underwater landscape is defined by volcanic formations such as arches, caverns and tunnels. There are also a few wrecks scattered...
Unlike the Pacific side of Costa Rica, Limón still lacks a proper diving infrastructure. What does this mean for you? A dive shop may be difficult to locate, but you are sure to be diving in uncrowded and pristine waters. Plus you have the chance to explore new areas if you choose to do so. Much of the province is protected by national parks. To the north, you will...
There is plenty of variety to be had diving the Bay Islands and it also suits all levels of divers. Most dive operators are located either on Roatán or Útila with a couple on Guanaja. The best times to dive are over February to early October and you can expect balmy weather and water temperature of 81-88°F (27-31°C). Visibility averages at 66ft (20m) unless there is...
With over 400 islands, the outer cayes and atolls of Belize are known around the world for their biodiverse coral reef and the Blue Hole. These offshore islands offer a huge variety of dive sites and environments from coral reefs to shallow caves. The water is warm and visibility is generally excellent. Some areas feature heavy currents but this can be avoided by...
Most divers visiting Belize head straight to the Cayes and Atolls, but smart divers also make time for Placencia. In this part of southern Belize, you’ll have access to a little-visited piece of the barrier reef. The inner half is the perfect place to get certified and for beginner divers to fine-tune their skills. You’ll find excellent visibility, no current and...
Surrounded on three sides by water, the Baja Peninsula offers astounding dives filled with pelagic species. The Sea of Cortez is the main focal point of Baja California, but this region is also known as the setting off point for Socorro Island. You’ll also find liveaboards destined for Guadalupe from the Baja Peninsula. At this far-off island, cage diving is king.The...
Most famous for its proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef, Caye Caulker is a great base for divers wishing to explore a different section of the reef every day. Diving here is by boat, specifically small to mid-size speedboats. As the coral reefs are just a mile away, journeys can be quite short. Barely a handful of dive shops operate here. Each offers trips to the...