Diving in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a top-tier scuba diving destination, celebrated for its clear blue waters, rich coral reefs, and convenient shore access. With ideal diving conditions year-round, this Central American gem provides an extraordinary experience for divers of all levels. Discover thriving marine ecosystems, dramatic underwater formations, and vibrant coral landscapes, making Costa Rica a must-visit for those seeking biodiversity and breathtaking dive sites.
Explore diving in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a paradise for scuba divers, offering vibrant marine life, stunning coral reefs, and breathtaking underwater landscapes. Whether a beginner or an experienced diver, our Scuba Diving Costa Rica directory connects you with the region’s best dive shops, instructors, and tour operators.
Why Choose Scuba Diving in Costa Rica?

A Premier Diving Destination
Costa Rica has long been recognized as a top scuba diving destination thanks to its rich marine biodiversity and commitment to ocean conservation. Many of the country’s dive sites are part of marine protected areas, ensuring pristine waters and thriving aquatic life.

Exceptional Diving Opportunities
With a diverse range of dive sites, Costa Rica offers incredible shore and boat diving opportunities. Locations like the Catalina Islands, Bat Islands, and Cocos Islands provide breathtaking underwater landscapes, from vibrant coral reefs to deep-sea encounters with large marine species.

Diverse Marine Life
Costa Rica’s waters are home to a stunning variety of marine species, including manta rays, sea turtles, reef sharks, seahorses, and vibrant coral reefs. Divers can also explore unique underwater formations, including dramatic drop-offs, shipwrecks, and caves.

Learn & Improve Your Diving Skills
Costa Rica is ideal for earning a scuba certification or enhancing your diving expertise.
- Open Water Diver Certification – Perfect for those starting their scuba diving journey.
- Advanced Open Water Diver – Gain new skills and explore deeper dive sites.
- Rescue Diver & Specialty Courses – Learn advanced techniques such as night, wreck, and deep diving.
Where to dive in Costa Rica
Top Scuba Diving Locations in Costa Rica
Cocos Island – A Diver's Dream
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cocos Island is famous for its hammerhead shark sightings and deep-sea adventures. It’s a must-visit for advanced divers looking for thrilling underwater experiences.
Bat Islands – Shark Encounters
Located off the northwestern coast, the Bat Islands (Islas Murciélagos) offer thrilling dives where you can spot bull sharks up close. This site is ideal for experienced divers seeking an adrenaline rush.
Catalina Islands – Manta-Ray Hotspot
The Catalina Islands are known for their frequent manta ray encounters. This destination is excellent for intermediate and advanced divers and combines reef and profound diving opportunities.
Caño Island – Pristine Reefs
Located on the Osa Peninsula, Caño Island Biological Reserve is home to unspoiled coral reefs, sea turtles, and reef sharks, making it a top spot for underwater photography and exploration.
Costa Rica: top locations for diving
Plan Your Diving Adventure in Costa Rica
(Book Your Dive Experience Today!)
Costa Rica has everything you need if you’re looking for guided dives, shore diving adventures, or PADI-certified courses. Explore our handpicked selection of dive shops, resorts, and liveaboard options to plan your perfect diving getaway.
Dive Shops
Get expert guidance and top-tier diving equipment from Costa Rica’s best dive centers.
Dive Resorts
Stay at premier resorts with on-site dive facilities and direct access to stunning dive sites.
Liveaboards
Explore multiple dive sites with all-inclusive liveaboard trips that offer extended diving adventures.
Dive Sites
Discover Costa Rica’s top dive spots, from vibrant coral reefs to legendary shipwrecks.
Courses
Learn from certified instructors and advance your diving skills with PADI, SSI, and NAUI programs.
Travel Tips for Divers
Pack a Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Protect marine life from harmful chemicals.
Bring an Underwater Camera – Capture your dive memories with stunning underwater photography.
Check Visa & Travel Requirements – Ensure you meet Costa Rica’s entry guidelines.

Scuba Gear
Dive Shops

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Scuba Diving Costa Rica helps you find the best scuba diving services in the country