Scuba Diving in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has coasts along both the Pacific Sea and the Carribean part of the Atlantic, and is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, clear waters, and spectacular dive sites. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, Costa Rica offers a variety of underwater adventures, with sites ranging from vibrant coral reefs to deep ocean encounters.

Marine Life

Costa Rica's waters are teeming with diverse marine life. Common sightings include:

  • Sharks: Bull sharks, hammerhead sharks, white-tip reef sharks, whale sharks

  • Rays: Manta rays, eagle rays.

  • Other fish: Parrotfish, angelfish, jacks, and many more tropical species.

  • Turtles: Hawksbill turtles, green sea turtles.

  • Mammals: Dolphins live here, and occasional whales can also be spotted.

Examples of dive destinations

Bat Islands (Las Islas Murciélago)

Located in the Guanacaste region, Bat Islands are famous for encounters with bull sharks, manta rays, and large schools of fish. The best time to dive here is from May to November. This area is known for strong currents, making it suitable for more experienced divers who are familiar with the safety procedures for such locations.

One example of a well-known dive site off Las Islas Murciélago is Big Scare at the outermost island of the chain. It is a popular hang out for bull sharks, hence the name. It is possible that the strong currents are why bull sharks are attracted to this location. To see the sharks, you might need to ascend fairly deep for a hobby diver, sometimes as far down as 30 metres.

Manta Rays and the smaller Devil Rays also frequent the waters off Las Islas Murciélago, attracted by the richness of plankton, and are often spotted by scuba divers.

Scuba divers who want to explore Las Islas Murciélago frequently chose the beach town Playas del Coco as their base, since the islands are just 30 miles by boat off shore from this town, across the Gulf de Papagayo. Note: The gulf is exposed to unpredictable winds. Each day, the boat operator will evalutate the situation to determine if crossing the bay is safe or not. It is advisable to have a flexible schedule to accommodate for delays caused by the weather.

The best water visibility around the Bat Islands is usually in May – November, and this is also when the water is a little warmer and the wind is somewhat less likely to cause problems. Note that visibility can vary greatly even during the same dive and be prepare to handle a sudden decrease in visibility.

Catalina Islands (Las Islas Catalinas)

Also in the Guanacaste region, the Catalina Islands offer divers the chance to see manta rays, white-tip reef sharks, and various species of eels and tropical fish.

The Catalina Islands is a chain archipelago consisting of small rocky islands located 2-15 miles off the mainland, and all the islands are uninhabited. Many scuba divers have Coco Beach or Playa Ocotal as their base for exploring the Catalina Islands, as boat trips for scuba divers are available from these locations. The famous Playa Grande is another option.

Examples of marine life that you might spot here are manta rays, devil rays, spotted eagle rays, bat rays, bullseye rays, white tip reef sharks, sea turtles, eels, and huge schools of colourful tropical fish. If you are lucky, you might also get to see whale sharks, tiger sharks and humpback whales, as they sometimes decide to pay this archipelago a visit. Even orcas have been reported, but these sightings are very rare.

Visibility is usually 15-80 feet. The best diving conditions are from November to May, although scuba diving takes place here year round. January and February tend to have the lowest water temperature. These islands are ideal for both novice and advanced divers, but keep in mind that water visibility can change quickly and be prepared to handle it. Novice divers should ideally go with an experienced guide. Currents fluctuate depeding on exakt dive site, the wind, the tide, and the season. Experienced dive operators well acqainted with the area can usually help you select dive sites to minimize the risk of currents causing a problem.

Cocos Island (Isla del Coco)

Cocos Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a remote and protected island about 550 km off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It's famous for its large pelagic species, including hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and manta rays. Diving here is recommended for advanced divers due to strong currents and deep waters. Liveaboard trips are the best way to experience Cocos Island, offering multiple dives per day in pristine conditions. It is important to adhere to all the rules that have been put in place to protect this very special environment.

Diving Conditions in Costa Rica

This is just general info. It is better to seek information about the specific destinations and dive sites in Costa Rica you are interested in, since conditions can vary significantly, especially when it comes to visibility.

Water Temperature

The water temperature in Costa Rica usually ranges from 75°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C), making it comfortable for diving year-round. Divers can normally dive comfortably in a 3mm wetsuit, though some may prefer a thicker suit in the cooler months.

Visibility

Visibility varies by location and season. Generally, it ranges from 30 feet (10 meters) to 100 feet (30 meters), with the best visibility during the dry season (December to April). Coastal sites can have much lower visibility during the rainy season due to runoff.

Dive Operators

Costa Rica has numerous dive operators that offer guided dives, certification courses, and equipment rentals. It is a good idea to compare several businesses before you make your decision. Also, check out recent reviews and double-check that certifications are still valid.

Examples of operators in Costa Rica at the time of writing:

  • Rich Coast Diving: Based in Playas del Coco, offering PADI courses and daily dive trips.

  • Deep Blue Diving Adventures: Located in Tamarindo, offering a range of diving services and trips to Catalina Islands.

  • Okeanos Aggressor: Offering liveaboard trips to Cocos Island for an immersive diving experience.

  • Aqua Rica: Located in Playa Hermosa, providing various diving excursions and certification courses.

  • Costa Rica Dive and Surf: Based in Dominical, offering dives at Caño Island and nearby reefs.

Regulations

Costa Rica has established regulations to ensure the safety of divers and the protection of marine environments. Always follow the rules and respect marine life and habitats.

Travel Tips for Scuba Divers

Packing Essentials

  • Dive Gear: While rental gear is available, bringing your own mask, snorkel, and fins ensures a comfortable fit.

  • Sun Protection: Reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and rash guards help protect against the strong tropical sun.

  • Documentation: Bring your dive certification cards and logbook.

  • Medications: Anti-nausea medication can be helpful for boat trips.

Local Etiquette

  • Respect Marine Life: Avoid touching or disturbing marine creatures. Practice good buoyancy control to prevent damaging coral reefs.

  • Environmental Responsibility: Dispose of trash properly and participate in beach clean-ups if possible.

  • Cultural Sensitivity: Learn at least a few basic phrases in Spanish and be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Final thoughts

Scuba diving in Costa Rica offers an unforgettable experience with its stunning underwater landscapes and rich marine biodiversity. Whether you're exploring the vibrant reefs of Catalina Islands or encountering the majestic creatures of Cocos Island, Costa Rica is a paradise for scuba divers. Plan your trip, choose a reputable dive operator, and enjoy the underwater wonders of this beautiful country. With the right preparation and awareness, your diving adventure in Costa Rica can be both safe and thrilling.