Go Scuba Diving in Costa Rica in These 9 Breathtaking Sites

close uo of a tortoise and two scuba diver is at the back

Costa Rica, located in Central America, is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, providing ample opportunities for scuba diving in both bodies of water.

The country boasts an impressive array of marine life and unique underwater topography, such as volcanic formations, coral reefs, deep-sea trenches and rocky outcroppings, creating a diverse and vibrant environment for divers to explore.

There are several excellent spots along the Pacific coast, such as the Catalina Islands and the Gulf of Papagayo. The Isla del Coco is a remote island and protected marine reserve located about 300 miles off the country's Pacific coast, teeming with beautiful marine life.

In this article, we will explore some of the best places to scuba dive in Costa Rica. We will also list out important information about diving in Costa Rica and things you need to know before you hit the waters.

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9 Popular Scuba Diving Spots in Costa Rica

1. Gandoca Manzanillo Refuge, Limon Province

Gandoca Manzanillo Refuge is a protected national park home to diverse marine life, clear waters and underwater rock formations, making it an ideal spot for diving enthusiasts looking to explore the depths of the Caribbean Sea.

The national park emphasizes its commitment to marine conservation and includes 2 swamps. The refuge's authorities have implemented strict rules to ensure the preservation of the ecosystem. Divers are required to follow guidelines that include not touching coral reefs or disturbing marine life.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Shipwrecks, corals, eels, octopus, turtles, rock formations, manatees, crocodiles, dolphins, tropical fish, caimans, tarpons, parrotfish, angelfish, sea cucumbers, lobsters, spinges, urchins.
Depth: 5m - 15m
Costs: Individual dives - $75 - $235 & Courses - $125 - $750

2. Bat Islands, Guanacaste Province

The Bat Islands in Costa Rica will give you an unforgettable scuba diving experience like no other. Located on the northern Pacific coast, the Bat Islands are well-known for their abundant marine life - specifically bull sharks and rays. The area's most famous dive site is the Big Scare, since bull sharks up to 23 feet have been seen at this location. They inhabit these waters from May to November.

The Bat Islands are also unique because of their volcanic rock formations, which create underwater canyons, caves, and archways. Additionally, the strong currents in the area bring nutrient-rich waters, which attract a diversity of marine life. Diving here is more suited for advance-level divers.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Arches, caverns, tunnels, macro species, bull sharks, giant manta rays, devil rays, eagle rays, barracuda, snappers, turtles.
Depth: 6m - 35m
Costs: Individual dives - $75 - $235 & Courses - $125 - $750

3. Las Catalinas, Guanacaste Province

scuba diver taking a picture of tortoise

Las Catalinas is one of the best destinations for scuba diving enthusiasts in Costa Rica. The Catalina Island chain is an archipelago of rocky islets located in the northwestern province of Guanacaste. It boasts crystal clear waters, an incredible abundance of marine life, and stunning underwater landscapes. You can explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean here.

The islands are completely uninhabited, and their location, currents, and formation make them perfect locations for large quantities of marine life to gather. The Las Catalinas is a must-dive location because of its unique volcanic rock formations. The underwater formations create a maze of caverns, tunnels, and swim-throughs that are sure to leave you in awe.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Manta rays, volcanic rock formations, caverns, tunnels, swim-throughs, turtles, white tip reef sharks, moray eels, reef fishes, octopus, eagle rays, seahorses, stingrays, bullseye rays, bat rays, tiger sharks, humpback whales, orcas, devil rays.
Depth: 6m - 40m
Costs: Individual dives - $75 - $235 & Courses - $125 - $750

4. Tortuga, Guanacaste Province

Tortuga, located in the Guanacaste Province of Costa Rica, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the underwater world. The warm waters bring a colourful diversity of marine life that can be found there. The underwater landscape also features breathtaking coral formations, underwater caves, and volcanic rock formations.

Isla Tortuga also offers the opportunity to explore famous shipwrecks, like the Caroline Star, the Coronel Alfonso Monge and the Franklin Chang Diaz. These wrecks provide a unique and diverse experience for divers of all skill levels.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Shipwrecks, moray eels, puffer fish, white tip reef sharks, eagle rays, turtles, dolphins, tropical fishes, whale sharks, reef sharks.
Depth: 7m - 30m
Costs: Individual dives - $75 - $235 & Courses - $125 - $750

5. Monkey Head, Gulf de Papagayo

fishes swimming near to old wrecked ship

Scuba diving in Monkey Head, located in the Gulf de Papagayo in Costa Rica, is named so because of its unique rock formation that rises from the sea and perfectly resembles a monkey's head.

This brilliant dive with a unique backdrop offers an unforgettable experience for any diving enthusiast. The waters are teeming with incredible marine species, making it a perfect spot for underwater photography. Diving in Monkey Head is also ideal for all levels of divers, from beginners to experienced divers. The location has distinct underwater topography that suits different levels of scuba diving expertise.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Spotted eagle rays, manta rays, moray eels, turtles, corals, reef sharks, parrotfish, angelfish, surgeonfish, butterflyfish, sea fans, sponges, anemones, drop-offs, canyons, crevices, swim-throughs.
Depth: 10m - 35m
Costs: Individual dives - $75 - $235 & Courses - $125 - $750

6. Cocos Island National Marine Park, Puntarenas Province

a female scuba diver swimming over the coral reef

Cocos Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park in the Pacific Ocean. Jacques Cousteau, the esteemed and renowned diving personality, regarded Cocos Island as the world’s finest diving destination. The island is surrounded by deep waters, home to various pelagic species. Excellent visibility provides divers with a clear view of the vibrant coral reef system as well.

Its underwater mountains that rise from the ocean floor creates a unique diving environment with steep drop-offs and strong currents. One of the most popular dive sites at Cocos Island is the Bajo Alcyone, a seamount that attracts large schools of hammerhead sharks. Other popular dive sites include Dirty Rock, Dos Amigos Grande, and Manuelita Coral Garden.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, whitetip reef sharks, manta rays, tiger sharks, marble rays, dolphins, humpback whales.
Depth: 10m - 40m
Costs: Individual dives - $75 - $235 & Courses - $125 - $750

7. Cahuita National Park, Limon Province

Cahuita National Park in Limon Province in Costa Rica is a scuba diving experience that combines adventure, beauty, and unique marine life, making it a must-visit destination. This protected marine area has astounding coral reefs, which is one of the largest in Costa Rica. The reef stretches for over six miles and is home to an incredible variety of marine life.

Another unique aspect of scuba diving in Cahuita is that the park is home to two shipwrecks - Punta Uva and Gandoca. These wrecks provide an exciting opportunity for divers to explore and discover the history of the area.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Shipwrecks, sea turtles, corals reefs, eels, sea cucumbers, manta rays, sharks, molluscs, crustaceans, sea urchins, angel queen fish, barracudas, lobsters, sea cucumbers, brain corals, staghorn corals, octopus.
Depth: 5m - 15m
Costs: Individual dives - $75 - $235 & Courses - $125 - $750

8. Drake Bay, Caño Island Biological Reserve

Drake Bay in Cano Island Reserve is considered one of the premier scuba diving destinations in Costa Rica, and it has numerous famous diving spots on the Osa Peninsula. Coral reefs and their accompanying marine life pull scuba divers from across the world to Drake Bay.

One of the most famous diving spots in Drake Bay is the Bajo del Diablo or Devil's Rock. Another popular spot is the Coral Gardens, where divers can explore an underwater garden of colourful coral formations and encounter various marine life. Other scuba diving sites in the Osa Peninsula include The Arch, Paradise, Sharks Cave, The Anchor, The Wreck and The Lighthouse.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Manta rays, sharks, moray eels, dolphins, endangered whales, coral reefs, tropical fish, turtles, silverjack, needlefish, parrotfish, yellowfin tuna, angel fish, snappers, amber jacks, volcanic rock formations, canyons, pinnacles.
Depth: 3m - 18m
Costs: Individual dives - $75 - $295 & Courses - $125 - $750

9. Manuel Antonia National Park, Quepos

Manuel Antonio National Park in Quepos, Costa Rica, is a diving destination on every diver's bucket list. Scuba diving in Manuel Antonio National Park is a unique experience because of its diverse underwater topography and abundant marine life. The park has several dive spots that cater to divers of all levels, and it's an excellent place to learn how to dive.

Famous dive spots include the Devil's Elbow, a deep dive site home to large schools of fish, and the Caves, which has a network of swim-throughs and tunnels. The park also has several shallow dive sites perfect for beginners, such as the Coral Gardens, where divers can see colourful corals, seahorses, and small fish. Other noteworthy scuba diving places include South Point, Geos Ridge, Punta Quepos, El Toro and Canyon Reef.

Unique Underwater Attractions: Parrotfish, angelfish, trumpetfish, scorpionfish, pufferfish, eels, turtles, octopus, humpback whales, dolphins, giant rays, sharks, jacks, barracudas, corals, snappers, grunts, butterfly fish, starfish.
Depth: 6m - 42m
Costs: Individual dives - $75 - $235 & Courses - $125 - $750

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica for Scuba Diving

May to December are the best months to go scuba diving in Costa Rica. When it rains, you will find more pelagic action. Bull Sharks and Hammerheads are frequent visitors to Bat Island and Cocos Island due to the nutrient swells.

During calmer tides, a variety of fish and macro-species emerge adding more colour to the dives.

Necessary Things to Carry for Scuba Diving in Costa Rica

Before you go scuba diving in Costa Rica, be sure to carry these essential items:

Valid ID proof is a must
Swimwear, dry bag and towels
Hats, sunglasses and sunblock
First aid kit

Underwater camera, if needed with a case to protect your camera from getting wet.

Scuba diving operators in Costa Rica will provide you with scuba diving equipment. Be sure to check your equipment before you're in the water to avoid malfunctions.

Tips to Remember Before Scuba Diving in Costa Rica

Go for a medical check-up before your scuba dive to ensure that you are fit enough and don't face any complications mid-dive.

Dive only in designated areas and always pay attention to the guidelines set down by your instructor.
Cost of scuba diving in Costa Rica may vary. Check with your operator if there are any additional charges such as VAT, park fees, equipment rental fees, etc.
Wait for at least 2 hours after eating before you go scuba diving.
Avoid diving under the influence of substances or if advised against by a medical practitioner.
There should be a considerable time gap between flying, exercising and consuming alcohol after going scuba diving.

Costa Rica is a fantastic destination for scuba diving enthusiasts. With its diverse marine life, unique underwater topography, and a variety of dive sites to choose from, it offers an unforgettable experience for divers of all skill levels. Whether you're looking for a challenging deep-sea dive or a leisurely exploration of a coral reef, Costa Rica has something for everyone.

Before you head off on your scuba diving adventure in Costa Rica, make sure that you have a comprehensive International Travel Insurance that covers adventure activities such as scuba diving! This protects you financially in case of any medical emergencies while on your adventure.

Travel insurance also provides coverage against unforeseen circumstances that could arise before or on your trip. Make sure to compare your policy prices before buying a plan.

FAQs About Scuba Diving in Costa Rica

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Is Costa Rica good for scuba diving?

Yes! Costa Rica is bordered by the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, providing ample opportunities for scuba diving in both bodies of water. The country boasts an impressive array of marine life and unique underwater topography, creating a vibrant environment for divers to explore.

Which is the best place for beginners to scuba dive in Costa Rica?

Isla del Caño is a natural biological reserve that offers one of the best dive sites in Costa Rica and an excellent opportunity for beginners.

Do you need to be certified to go scuba diving in Costa Rica?

You don’t have to be certified to go scuba diving in Costa Rica. There are many operators and sites that you can visit without a certification. However, if you want to try out many dives or go for deeper, advanced levels, it is best to complete a course and avail of a certification.

Which side of Costa Rica is best for diving?

The west side of Costa Rica is best for diving because, Costa Rica is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The Pacific Ocean currents entice big pelagic fish and mammals close to the shore, with islands such as the Catalinas and the Bat Islands offering some exciting day-trip opportunities for Costa Rica scuba diving.

What is the cost of scuba diving in Costa Rica?

The average cost of scuba diving in Costa Rica is around $75 - $235 for individual dives whereas diving courses cost around $125 - $750. These prices also vary basis the dive location, the operator you choose, park fees and other additional charges.