Scuba diving is one of the most perfect holiday activities. It’s interesting, continually new (whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, every dive is different), and best of all, it almost always involves plenty of sandy beaches and clear, calm water. There are outstanding dive sites on most coastlines but here are a few of the world’s very best places to go diving and have a fantastic holiday as well:
1. Egypt’s Red Sea Coast. Warm water and stunning marine life make a great combination underwater, while up on land the Red Sea coast boasts some of the most luxurious resort accommodation on the globe. Tropical fish and bright corals grace the waters just off Sharm El Sheik and Hurghada, along with the occasional manta ray. These magnificent, gentle animals can grow to a size of 25ft across. Pyramids and mummies one day, manta rays the next- that’s the foundation for the holiday of a lifetime.
2. Ningaloo World Heritage Area, Australia. Until recently, Ningaloo Reef remained largely unknown except to a few lucky locals. Because of its isolated position on Australia’s sparsely populated western coast, visitor numbers are still very low compared to the famous Great Barrier Reef in the east, but the Ningaloo area has just as much to offer, or more. There’s a pristine underwater environment and gorgeous white sand beaches without the crowds.
You can snorkel or dive amongst more than 400 species of fish and 250 types of coral, take a whale-watching tour, and even swim with the world’s largest fish. The whale shark can be anything up to 40ft long. A big specimen could have a gaping mouth 5ft wide, but rest assured. They are plankton feeders and have no interest in swallowing humans!
3. The Hawaiian Islands, USA. There are plenty of reasons to visit Hawaii. Sun, surf, and a party atmosphere are the first things most people think of when these islands come to mind but there’s also beautiful rainforest, active volcanoes, and exotic animals to see both on land and underwater. Hawaii relies heavily on the tourist industry so it can be crowded, but high visitor numbers also mean outstanding facilities. Expert instruction is very easy to come by. There is even a specially lit night diving site at Kailua Kona, and shark dive tours are very popular.
4. Koh Phi Phi, Thailand. If there is one place more relaxed than Hawaii, it’s Koh Phi Phi. From May to October underwater visibility can be stunning and the weather is almost sure to be warm and sunny. The waters (many of them shallow and beginner-friendly) are home to a brilliant assortment of tropical fish, or divers can visit the unique underwater tsunami memorial in Tonsai Bay. Accommodation can be very cheap and the local food is both tasty and easy on the budget.
5. Cocos Islands, Indian Ocean. This tiny archipelago might be a long way from anywhere, but it’s on the must-visit list for scuba divers around the world. The area is famous for huge schools of hammerhead sharks and humpback whales also make regular appearances. There are dolphins and a whole host of other large marine animals- sharks, rays, and all kinds of big fish.
There is no city on or anywhere near the Cocos Islands- nor even a town of any significant size- so if you want somewhere to relax and enjoy some peace and quiet along with world-class diving, this is a great place to go.
Jess Spate is a diver and a travel writer. She is a digital underwater video enthusiast and enjoys almost all ocean sports from surfing to snorkelling.
