Diving in Costa-Rica
Costa Rica is undoubtedly a diver’s paradise. Nestled between Nicaragua and Panama and bordered by the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean, this Central American country is known for its rich and diverse underwater world. From hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, whale sharks, bull sharks, manta rays and humpback whales to volcanic rock formations where hundreds of eagle rays circle, Costa Rica has it all.
Diving in Guanacaste: A World Full of Manta Rays and Bull Sharks
In northern Costa Rica, in the province of Guanacaste, we find Playa del Coco. It is home to the Dutch diving school Rich Coast Diving, which has been welcoming divers for nearly 20 years.
One of the must-visit spots is Catalinas Island, famous for its encounters with the majestic Pacific manta rays.
Another notable location is Bat Islands, located in Santa Rosa National Park. A dive to Bat Islands is not for the faint-hearted. Strong currents and fast descents make this a challenge, but the reward is great: seeing bull sharks.
The manta season runs from November through April and the bull shark season from June through October.
The Unspoiled Underwater World of Cocos Island
Nearly 500 km off the coast of Costa Rica lies Cocos Island, a marine park and a dream for every diver. Accessible only by liveaboard, this dive destination is definitely a bucket list destination for divers who like “big stuff.”
Cocos Island has a surprising biodiversity. Here you can dive with hammerhead sharks, tiger sharks, dolphins, manta rays and stingrays. You may also encounter whale sharks, large moray eels and sailfish.
When and Where to Dive in Costa Rica
Diving in Costa Rica is possible year-round. With visibility averaging 12 to 15 meters, Costa Rica offers optimal conditions for divers. Visibility is best between June and October, sometimes up to 30 meters. Although Costa Rica has a rainy season that runs from May to November, it has little to no impact on the diving experience.
Diving in Costa Rica offers a wide range of depths, ranging from 13 to about 40 meters, allowing divers of all levels to enjoy. The water temperature is pleasant and ranges between 26 and 29 degrees from December to April. Cooler currents can drop the water temperature to about 19 degrees, however, especially at Cocos Island, a thicker suit is certainly not a luxury.
Experience “la Pura Vida” Above and Below Water
We also recommend divers be sure to explore the country’s extraordinary biodiversity and natural beauty. From hiking in volcanic parks, canoeing through mangrove forests, discovering impressive waterfalls in the jungle, searching for monkeys and toucans in the jungle to birding in remote rainforests. With EWDR, it is possible to book a tailor-made tour throughout Costa-Rica.
Also diving in Costa-Rica?
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