16 of the best places for scuba diving in the world in 2024
Here are 16 of the world’s most remarkable scuba diving destinations for 2024, each offering unique experiences, rich marine life, and captivating underwater landscapes
We'll be plungin' into crystal-clear waters, greetin' vibrant coral reefs, and comin' face-to-face with some of the most incredible creatures on the seven seas.
1. Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Raja Ampat is a group of islands in the Raja Ampat Regency, West Papua, Indonesia. The four main islands are Misool, Waigeo, Batanta, and Salawati.
Raja Ampat is part of the Coral Triangle, the world's center of marine biodiversity. The islands are home to a wide variety of stunning coral reefs, walls, and pinnacle fish, and invertebrates.
The archipelago has been a popular scuba diving place since the early 1990s. ome of the most popular dive sites include Cape Kri, Wayag Lagoon, and Manta Ridge.
In 2019, an estimated 15,000 divers visited Raja Ampat to explore its underwater kaleidoscope, home to weird and wonderful critters like pygmy seahorses, wobbly-headed ghost shrimp, and even walking sharks!
Raja Ampat is special because of its remoteness, pristine environment, and abundance of marine life. The area is also home to a unique culture and way of life.
How to dive here? There are a number of dive operators in Raja Ampat, offering everything from day trips to liveaboard safaris.
How to get here? The nearest airport to Raja Ampat is Sorong (SOE) on the island of Waigeo. There are also flights to Kaimana (KNG) on the island of Salawati. From Sorong or Kaimana, you can take a boat to your dive destination.
The best time to dive is between May and October, when the seas are calm and the sun shines bright. To get here, fly to Sorong, Indonesia, and then hop on a boat to your island paradise.
2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland, Australia.
The location is made up of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 2,300 km (1,400 mi) over an area of approximately 344,400 square km (133,000 sq mi).
The Great Barrier reef is the world's biggest single structure made by living organisms. This reef structure is composed of and built by billions of tiny organisms, known as coral polyps.
It supports a wide diversity of life and was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981. CNN labelled it one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
Scuba diving history/sites: The Great Barrier Reef has been a popular scuba diving destination for over 100 years, visited by millions of divers each year. The area is known for its colorful coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life.
Some of the most popular dive sites include Cod Hole, Manta Ray Bommie, and the wreck of the SS Yongala.
The Great Barrier Reef is a must-dive for any diver. The reef is home to an incredible variety of marine life, and it is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The reef is also an important ecosystem, providing habitat for a wide variety of marine life.
How to dive here: There are a number of dive operators along the Great Barrier Reef, offering everything from day trips to liveaboard safaris.
How to get here: The nearest airport to the Great Barrier Reef is Cairns (CNS), on the east coast of Australia. There are also flights to Townsville (TSV) and Mackay (MKY). From Cairns, Townsville, or Mackay, you can take a boat to your dive destination.
3. Maldives
Think picture-perfect islands with powder-soft beaches and water so clear you could see a mermaid's comb from a mile away. That's the Maldives! But beneath the surface lies another world, just as stunning.
Divers, over 100,000 of them each year, come to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, swim alongside majestic manta rays, and get up close with gentle whale sharks.
You might even spot a shy octopus camouflaged against the rocks.
The best time to dive is between December and April, when the skies are sunny and the seas are calm. To get there, fly to Malé, the capital island, and then hop on a seaplane or boat to your island resort.
4. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
An archipelago of volcanic islands straddling the equator in the Pacific Ocean, Galapagos is best known for its unique wildlife as observed by Charles Darwin. But beneath the waves, an equally captivating world awaits divers.
Why Dive here?
Dive alongside marine iguanas, witness playful sea lions frolicking near volcanic vents, and marvel at sharks cruising among colorful coral reefs.
Penguins in the Tropics: Encounter the playful Galapagos penguins, the only penguin species found north of the equator, swimming alongside you in crystal-clear waters. It's a surreal and unforgettable experience.
Explore underwater lava tubes and caverns teeming with fish, discover vibrant coral gardens populated by shy nudibranchs and colorful angelfish, and drift along walls teeming with marine life.
The Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Marine Reserve, with strict regulations safeguarding its unique biodiversity. Scuba Diving or Snorkeling here supports these crucial conservation efforts.
Liveaboard safaris and land-based diving options are available around the Galapagos Islands. Choose your diving style and explore the underwater wonders of this evolutionary wonderland.
Getting There: Fly into Baltra Island Airport (BLT) or San Cristobal Island Airport (SCY) in Galapagos. From there, connect to your chosen dive destination by boat or land transportation.
5. French Polynesia
Scattered like jewels across the vast South Pacific, the islands of French Polynesia, including Bora Bora, Tahiti, and Moorea, beckon divers with their turquoise waters and underwater secrets.
Why Dive at the French Polynesia?
Scuba dive into crystalline lagoons adorned with vibrant coral gardens.
Encounter playful stingrays and gentle giants like manta rays, and explore dramatic underwater canyons teeming with life.
Discover tiger sharks in Fakarava's Tuamotu Archipelago, drift through Tiputa Pass in Bora Bora with sharks and rays swirling around you.
Explore coral canyons teeming with fish in Tahiti's Tetiaroa atoll.
French Polynesia offers a blend of luxurious resorts and laid-back island vibes. Divers of all levels can find their perfect underwater adventure.
Beyond the Blue: Hike volcanic peaks, soak in the Polynesian culture, and witness spectacular sunsets painting the sky in vibrant hues.
How to dive here: Numerous dive centers and resorts offer day trips and liveaboard safaris throughout French Polynesia.
Getting There: Fly into Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti and connect to your chosen island destination via domestic flights or ferries.
The best time to dive is between November and April, when the skies are sunny and the seas are calm. To get there, fly to Tahiti, the main island, and then hop on a flight or boat to your chosen atoll.
6. Pemba Island/Zanzibar, Tanzania
Pemba Island, nestled off the coast of Zanzibar in the Indian Ocean, is an off-the-beaten-path paradise for divers seeking untouched beauty and thrilling underwater adventures. Pemba is becoming Africa’s leading dive location in the recent future.
With over 5,000 divers exploring its depths each year, Diving on the Pemba Island offers a unique blend of pristine coral reefs, diverse marine life, and a relaxed, authentic African vibe.
Why Dive on Pemba Island?
Untouched Pristine Reefs: Unlike its bustling neighbour Zanzibar, Pemba's reefs are largely undiscovered, boasting vibrant coral gardens teeming with colourful fish, playful dolphins, and even the occasional whale shark.
Thrilling Diversity: Experience a kaleidoscope of underwater landscapes, from shallow coral gardens teeming with life to dramatic drop-offs and exhilarating drift dives.
Whale Sharks on pemba Island: Keep your eyes peeled for gentle giants like whale sharks and manta rays gracefully gliding through the crystal-clear waters.
Hidden Gems: Discover hidden coves and secret dive sites teeming with unique marine life, offering a sense of exploration and adventure.
Relaxed Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the laid-back Tanzanian culture, where friendly locals and uncrowded beaches provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The Experience
Marine Life Extravaganza: Encounter a dazzling array of fish, from vibrant butterflyfish and clownfish to majestic groupers and moray eels.
Macro Magic: Explore vibrant coral nooks and crannies, where shy octopus, flamboyant cuttlefish, and bizarre nudibranchs await discovery.
Pelagic Encounters: Keep your eyes peeled for graceful manta rays soaring through the blue, playful dolphins dancing alongside your fins, and even the occasional whale shark passing by.
Thrilling Drift Dives: Let the current whisk you past vibrant coral walls, encountering a kaleidoscope of marine life along the way.
Unforgettable Underwater Landscapes: Dive into dramatic drop-offs, explore intricate swim-throughs, and marvel at underwater pinnacles teeming with life.
Discover more fun things to do on Pemba island, Zanzibar.
How to Dive on Pemba Island
Pemba Island is home to several reputable dive centers offering a variety of diving experiences, from beginner-friendly dives to advanced drift dives and technical explorations.
Book a Dive with Swahili Divers, the safest and the oldest dive center in East Africa with 0 incidents in the last 7 years.
PADI Dive Courses are readily available, allowing you to hone your skills or embark on your diving journey for the first time.
Best Time to Visit Zanzibar/Pemba
The best time to dive in Pemba Island is between October and March, when the seas are calm, the visibility is excellent, and the weather is pleasant.
December to February offers the warmest water temperatures, perfect for enjoying the underwater world without a chill.
Getting There:
Fly into Zanzibar International Airport and then take a short flight or ferry ride to Pemba Island. From there, your chosen dive center can arrange transfers to your accommodation and get you ready for your underwater adventures.
7. Sipadan Island, Malaysia
Sipadan Island is a small, tropical island off the coast of Sabah, Malaysia, rising majestically from the Celebes Sea.
A volcanic plug formed over 30 million years ago, Sipadan is surrounded by breathtaking coral reefs teeming with life. Lush rainforest blankets the interior, creating a diverse ecosystem both above and below the waves.
This pristine environment makes it a haven for over 1,300 species of fish, 400 species of coral, and countless invertebrates, including iconic giants like green turtles, leopard sharks, and manta rays.
Scuba diving history/ Dive sites
Sipadan gained international recognition in the 1980s and quickly became a world-renowned diving destination. Jacques Cousteau famously dubbed it "untouched by civilization," and its sheer abundance of marine life continues to captivate divers.
The surrounding reefs offer incredible biodiversity, with highlights like Barracuda Point, known for its swirling schools of barracuda, Coral Gardens, showcasing dazzling coral formations, and Turtle Cave, a unique swim-through teeming with green turtles.
HDue to its conservation efforts and limited access, Sipadan maintains a controlled visitor flow. Only a select number of resorts operate on the island, catering to around 120 divers per day.
This exclusivity ensures minimal environmental impact and preserves the pristine underwater world.
Why dive in Sipadan Island
Sipadan offers an unparalleled diving experience like few others. The combination of vibrant coral reefs, abundant pelagic life, and healthy fish populations creates an underwater spectacle unmatched in its diversity and concentration.
The limited diver numbers further enhance the feeling of being in a pristine underwater paradise.
Diving in Sipadan is only possible through licensed resorts on the island. These resorts offer guided dives alongside experienced instructors, ensuring safety and responsible exploration of the underwater world.
And make sure you’re old enough to scuba dive (which shouldn’t be a problem).
How to get here: The nearest airport to Sipadan is Tawau (TWU) in Sabah, Malaysia. From Tawau, you can take a boat transfer directly to your chosen resort on the island.
8. Palau, Micronesia
A stunning archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean, Palau boasts dramatic underwater landscapes and a staggering biodiversity.
Why Dive in Palau?
Here’s what makes Palau a top 10 dive site in the entire world.
World War II Wrecks: Dive through history by exploring iconic wrecks like the USS Oklahoma and the USS New York, remnants of World War II that offer haunting yet poignant underwater experiences.
Blue Corner Magic: Immerse yourself in the vibrant coral cathedral known as Blue Corner, where cleaning stations attract majestic manta rays, swirling schools of fish, and even sharks in a mesmerizing underwater ballet.
Micro Paradise: Beyond the big attractions, Palau is a haven for macro enthusiasts. Discover intricate coral formations teeming with shy critters, colorful nudibranchs, and playful pygmy seahorses.
Conservation Champion: Palau is a leader in marine conservation, with protected areas safeguarding its coral reefs and diverse marine life. Diving here supports responsible tourism and contributes to these crucial efforts.
How to dive in Palau
Numerous dive centers and liveaboard options are available in Palau, catering to all levels and interests. Choose your adventure and explore the underwater wonders of this Micronesian paradise.
Getting There: Fly into Koror International Airport (ROR) in Palau. From there, connect to your chosen dive destination by boat or seaplane.
9. The Maldives
A string of picture-perfect coral atolls scattered across the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is a diver's paradise synonymous with crystal-clear waters and luxurious underwater encounters.
Why dive on the Maldives?
Marine Marvels: Dive with majestic manta rays gliding effortlessly, encounter docile whale sharks, and explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish.
Discover hidden swim-throughs in pristine reefs and drift along channels teeming with life.
Resort Paradise: Choose from luxurious overwater bungalows or cozy beachside accommodations at world-renowned resorts.
Dive centers offer guided dives for all levels, making the Maldives ideal for beginners and experienced divers alike. Make sure you have your up to date scuba diving certifications regardless of your dive level.
Beyond the Reef: The Maldives offers more than just diving. Relax on pristine beaches, indulge in spa treatments, or explore the local culture in traditional fishing villages.
How to Dive in Maldives
Dive centers and resorts throughout the Maldives offer day trips and liveaboard safaris. Choose your island paradise and experience the underwater magic of the Maldives.
Getting There: Fly into Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé, the capital of the Maldives. From there, connect to your chosen island destination by seaplane or domestic flight.
10. The Socorro Islands, Mexico
A volcanic archipelago situated off the Pacific coast of Mexico, the Socorro Islands are a magnet for divers seeking thrilling encounters with pelagic megafauna.
Why Dive on the Socorro Islands?
Shark Showcase: Witness schools of hammerhead sharks patrolling the depths, encounter majestic tiger sharks and oceanic whitetips, and be awestruck by the sheer size and grace of whale sharks during their winter migration.
Marine Oasis: Beyond the sharks, the Socorro Islands offer a vibrant underwater world. Explore kelp forests teeming with fish, discover fascinating underwater lava formations, and encounter playful dolphins.
Remote Adventure: Reaching the Socorro Islands requires dedication, due to their remote location and limited dive options. Liveaboard trips are the primary way to dive here, offering an immersive and adventurous experience.
Conservation Commitment: The islands are part of the Revillagigedo National Park, ensuring their protection and sustainable management. Diving here supports conservation efforts and helps preserve this unique ecosystem.
How to Dive on the Socorro Islands
Liveaboard trips depart from Cabo San Lucas or La Paz in Mexico. Be prepared for long journeys, challenging currents, and deep dives.
Getting There: Fly into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) or La Paz International Airport (LAP) in Mexico. From there, connect to your chosen liveaboard operator.
11. Cocos Island, Costa Rica
Another remote volcanic gem in the Pacific Ocean, Cocos Island sits 350km off the Costa Rican coast, shrouded in mystique and marine marvels.
Why Dive on Cocos Island?
Nature's Powerhouse: Lush rainforests cloak the island, while its underwater domain pulsates with life. Witness schools of hammerhead sharks patrolling the depths, encounter playful dolphins, and marvel at giant manta rays.
Diving Paradise: Explore underwater canyons teeming with fish, drift alongside majestic whale sharks, and dive through dramatic seamounts carpeted with colorful corals. Manuelita Garden and Shark Rock are legendary dive sites renowned for their biodiverse encounters.
Limited Access: Cocos Island's protected status limits visitor numbers, ensuring pristine conditions. Most diving happens via liveaboard boats, making it a true adventurer's paradise.
A Treasure Unearthed: Beyond diving, hike through dense rainforests, explore hidden waterfalls, and soak in the island's raw, untouched beauty.
How to dive in Cocos
Liveaboard trips are the primary way to reach and dive Cocos Island. Book well in advance due to limited permits and high demand.
Getting There: Fly into San Jose International Airport (SJO) in Costa Rica and connect to the town of Puntarenas. From there, board a liveaboard for the journey to Cocos Island.
12. Similan Islands, Thailand
An archipelago of nine granite islands nestled in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Thailand, the Similan Islands offer pristine coral reefs and exceptional visibility.
Why dive on the Similan Islands?
Granite Wonderland: Dive amid towering granite boulders adorned with vibrant coral gardens, swim through swim-throughs and underwater tunnels, and discover hidden coves brimming with life.
Gentle Giants: Encounter playful whale sharks that migrate through the waters during the months of November to May, adding a magical element to your dives.
Marine Biodiversity: From colorful fish and playful dolphins to majestic manta rays and shy sharks, the Similan Islands offer a kaleidoscope of marine life encounters.
National Park Paradise: The islands are part of the Mu Koh Similan National Park, ensuring their pristine condition and sustainable management. Diving here contributes to conservation efforts and protects this underwater gem.
How to dive on the Similand Islands
Dive centers and liveaboard options are available on Koh Tachai, the gateway to the Similan Islands. Choose day trips or multi-day liveaboard safaris to explore the underwater wonders of this archipelago.
Getting There: Fly into Phuket International Airport (HKT) in Thailand. From there, take a ferry or speedboat to Koh Tachai.
Going on a group dive this year? Here are 100 crazily funny scuba diving jokes to lighten up your dive. Enjoy!
13. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, Philippines
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in the middle of the Sulu Sea is a diver's nirvana.
I can barely pronounce the name too, but this marine paradise rises from the depths of the Sulu Sea in the Philippines, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a diver's dream come true.
Why Dive Tubbataha
Coral Kingdom: Vibrant hard corals, delicate soft corals, and towering coral walls create a breathtaking underwater cityscape.
Megafauna Magnet: Witness schools of hammerhead sharks, encounter majestic tiger sharks and oceanic whitetips, and be awestruck by the sheer abundance of fish life. Whales sharks and manta rays occasionally grace the waters, adding to the magic.
Conservation Champion: The park is meticulously protected, ensuring the pristine condition of its reefs and diverse marine life. Diving here directly supports conservation efforts and contributes to the park's sustainability.
How to Dive on Tubbataha
Reaching Tubbataha requires dedication due to its remote location and strict visitor regulations. So make sure you have your scuba diving certification.
Liveaboard trips are the only way to dive here, offering an immersive and exclusive experience.
Liveaboard trips depart from Puerto Princesa in Palawan or Cebu City. Be prepared for long journeys, limited availability, and potentially challenging currents.
Fly into Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) or Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) in the Philippines. From there, connect to your chosen liveaboard operator.
The best time to dive is between March and June, when the seas are calm and the visibility is excellent. Be prepared for a limited-impact experience, as this fragile ecosystem is carefully protected.
14. The Red Sea, Egypt
Step into a living history book beneath the waves of the Red Sea!
Egypt may not be one of africa’s great islands, but divers, over 1 million each year, flock to this underwater museum to explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, swim alongside graceful sea turtles, and even come face-to-face with majestic dugongs.
But for many, the real draw is the wreck of the SS Thistlegorm, a WWII British cargo ship resting in its watery grave. Explore its decks, peer into its cargo holds, and imagine the stories it could tell.
The best time to dive is between May and October, when the waters are warm and clear.
To get there, fly to Sharm El Sheik or Hurghada, and then choose your diving adventure – from day trips to liveaboard boats, the Red Sea has something for everyone.
Add diving in one of Africa’s Islands to the top of your bucket list.
15. Malpelo Island, Colombia:
A rocky volcanic outcrop rising from the depths of the Colombian Pacific, Malpelo is a shark haven shrouded in an aura of mystery and scientific significance.
Why Dive at the Malpelo?
Shark Sanctuary: Malpelo is a magnet for divers seeking thrills. Witness schools of hammerhead sharks patrolling the depths, encounter silky sharks gracefully gliding by, and come face-to-face with the occasional oceanic whitetip shark.
Underwater Wonderland: Beyond the sharks, Malpelo offers a kaleidoscope of marine life. Dive through vibrant coral gardens teeming with fish, explore underwater caves and swim with playful dolphins.
Limited Access: Reaching Malpelo requires special permits and liveaboard trips due to its remote location and protected status. This exclusivity ensures pristine conditions and unforgettable encounters.
An Evolving Ecosystem: Malpelo is a vital research site, providing scientists with insights into marine biodiversity and shark behavior. Diving here contributes to conservation efforts and scientific research.
How to Dive in Malpelo
Liveaboard trips are the only way to dive Malpelo. Book well in advance and be prepared for challenging currents and deep dives.
Getting There: Fly into Cali International Airport (CLO) in Colombia and connect to Buenaventura by domestic flight. From Buenaventura, board a liveaboard for the journey to Malpelo.
16. The Azores, Portugal
Location: An archipelago of volcanic islands nestled in the mid-Atlantic Ocean, the Azores offer a unique blend of European charm and dramatic underwater landscapes.
Why Visit Azores?
Whale Wonderland: Witness spectacular whale encounters throughout the year, including blue whales, playful humpback whales, and curious sperm whales. The Azores are a whale watcher's paradise, with incredible sightings from both land and underwater.
Volcanic Delights: Explore underwater lava tubes and volcanic vents, dive around hydrothermal vents teeming with strange and fascinating creatures, and witness the sheer power and beauty of active volcanic landscapes beneath the waves.
Sustainable Destination: The Azores are committed to sustainable tourism and marine conservation. Diving here supports these efforts and ensures the archipelago's unique ecosystems remain protected.
How to Scuba dive in Portugal
Dive centers and liveaboard options are available around the main islands of Terceira, Pico, and Faial. Choose your adventure and explore the underwater wonders and volcanic majesty of the Azores.
Getting There: Fly into Lajes Air Base (LJP) on Terceira Island or João Paulo II Airport (PXO) on Pico Island. From there, connect to your chosen dive destination by boat or land transportation.
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Final thoughts
And there you have it, mateys! Our breathtaking tour of the top 16 scuba diving places in the world! From the vibrant coral reefs of Raja Ampat to the majestic whale sharks of Cocos Island, each stop promised an underwater adventure unlike any other.
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