A Scuba Diver’s Guide to the Best Places in the World to Explore Underwater
From Fiji to Mexico and beyond: 13 must-visit diving destinations.
People who don’t scuba dive miss out on breathtaking perspectives of the world’s wonders. Underwater, the experience is transformed—silence envelops you, and the view through a scuba mask reveals an extraordinary world. Covering more than 70% of our planet, the ocean hosts some of the most fascinating dive sites, rivaling any terrestrial wildlife or nature attraction.
Here are 13 top-tier diving locations, from Fiji’s iconic Rainbow Reef to the vibrant coral reefs and intriguing shipwrecks in the Florida Keys. Get inspired to explore these incredible underwater adventures.
Fiji is a paradise for divers, offering various sustainable options to encounter its diverse marine life. Photo by Jay Clue and PADI |
Fiji
Put on your mask and dive into the clear waters of Fiji, where you’ll find some of the most vibrant and plentiful soft corals in the world. The region boasts 42% of the globe’s coral species, according to the Coral Reef Alliance.
To witness the underwater beauty at its peak, head to the aptly named Rainbow Reef, nestled between the islands of Vanua Levu and Taveuni in the Somosomo Strait. For daily two-tank dives, consider staying at Paradise Taveuni or Fiji’s first PADI Eco Center, Sau Bay Resort & Spa, where you can participate in mangrove and coral planting as well as village beach cleanups. Keep an eye out for migrating humpback whales, frequently spotted in these waters between June and October. PADI and Fiji have also partnered for the “Bula Blue” initiative to enhance conservation efforts in this remarkable area of the South Pacific.
Off the southern coast of Viti Levu, the Beqa Lagoon offers breathtaking encounters with tiger sharks, nurse sharks, bull sharks, and lemons among the stunning sights of flourishing coral reefs. “What makes this site even more extraordinary is witnessing the large gatherings of sharks amidst the vibrant coral colors,” says diver expert Andersen. Notable coral reefs include the Great Astrolabe Reef around Kadavu Island and the Namena Marine Reserve, the country’s largest no-take zone, located between Viti Levu and Vanua Levu.
In addition to diving, consider relaxing at eco-friendly hotels like Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, Six Senses Fiji, or Vomo Island. These properties are committed to coral restoration programs and feature resident marine biologists who can provide further education and hands-on experiences for divers of all ages.
https://www.afar.com/magazine/best-places-in-the-world-to-go-scuba-diving
