Where is the Best Place to Dive in the Caribbean?

Written by a Professional Scuba Instructor

When it comes to choosing the best place to dive in the Caribbean, the options are endless. As professional scuba instructors with decades of experience across the Caribbean and Pacific, we have a deep understanding of the nuances that make each destination unique and exceptional.

Top Diving Destinations in the Caribbean

Each of the following locations has a special charm and something to offer, making it a worthy choice for any passionate diver:

Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. From the beautiful North Wall in Grand Cayman to the picturesque Elbow Beach in Little Cayman, divers can explore a myriad of coral reefs and shipwrecks.

Bonaire

Bonaire is a scuba diver’s paradise with unlimited shore diving and extremely calm conditions. The presence of a diverse array of marine species, including sea turtles, tropical fish, and even whale sharks (during specific seasons), makes Bonaire a must-visit destination.

Belize

Belize offers world-class diving, highlighted by the famous Blue Hole, an iconic dive site that draws divers from around the globe. The vibrant reef systems and extensive coral formations provide a breathtaking underwater experience.

Dominica

Dominica has been ranked as one of the top Five diving sites worldwide. The island boasts a unique split personality, with the Atlantic on one side and the Caribbean Sea on the other. This diversity ensures a rich and varied diving experience.

Saba

Saba, a small Caribbean island, is home to one of the oldest marine parks in the world. Divers can explore steep walls, bommies, and underground caves, with excellent visibility and a flourishing ecosystem filled with colorful corals and marine life.

Personal Insights and Recommendations

Based on our extensive experience, we find that the best places to dive in the Caribbean include Bonaire, Cozumel, and Dominica. Each destination has its unique appeal, and you can’t go wrong with any of them. However, to give you a more personalized recommendation, here are our picks:

Cozumel: This Mexican destination offers outstanding diving opportunities, especially during the annual whale shark migration. Cozumel is known for its clear waters and diverse marine life, making it a top choice for divers.

Dominica: Dominica stands out as a must-visit diving destination with a well-preserved marine ecosystem. The reefs are free from coral bleaching, ensuring a vibrant and healthy underwater landscape. The crystal-clear waters and varied dive sites make it a prime location for those seeking unparalleled diving experiences.

Bonaire: If you value convenience and accessibility, Bonaire is an excellent choice. The availability of shore diving and the calm conditions make it a perfect destination for both beginners and experienced divers. Besides, Bonaire offers world-class windsurfing, making it an all-around adventure destination.

Additional Recommendations

While the above destinations are among our favorites, it's worth noting that other Caribbean islands can offer exceptional diving experiences. For instance:

Bahamas: Known for its awe-inspiring shark and ray diving experiences, the Bahamas provide an exciting and unique underwater adventure. The surrounding waters are home to a diverse array of marine life, making it a must-visit destination for shark enthusiasts and divers looking for a memorable experience.

Costa Rica (Cozumel and Caribbean Coast including Mahahual and Chinchorro Bank): The upcoming move to Cozumel and the Caribbean coast from Ecuador highlights the outstanding diving opportunities in these regions. Mahahual and Chinchorro Bank, in particular, are known for their vast and thriving coral reefs, providing an excellent backdrop for diving enthusiasts.

Club Med on Columbus Isle: For those seeking a more luxurious diving experience, Club Med on Columbus Isle offers excellent facilities and a relaxed atmosphere. The island provides a perfect blend of underwater adventures and leisure activities, making it a recommended choice for divers and non-divers alike.

Dominica: Dominica has been highly rated as one of the best diving sites, with reefs that are not experiencing bleaching, unlike other areas in the Caribbean. The rich marine biodiversity and stunning underwater landscapes make Dominica a top choice for passionate divers and nature enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best place to dive in the Caribbean depends on your personal preferences and the type of diving experience you seek. Whether you are an experienced diver or a beginner, the Caribbean offers countless opportunities to explore its rich marine life and vibrant underwater worlds. So, take your pick from the list above, and embark on a memorable diving journey.

Safe diving!

Colette and Philip