The 10 most underrated scuba diving destinations
The 10 most underrated scuba diving destinations
Scuba diving is an exciting activity that lets you explore underwater worlds, seeing marine life and landscapes that are usually hidden from view. While spots like the Great Barrier Reef and the Red Sea are well known, there are many other places where the beauty is just as impressive but not as crowded. We found a study by DiveIn that gathers the top scuba diving spots.
This list highlights ten underrated scuba diving destinations where you can enjoy the sea without the usual throngs of tourists. From the rich biodiversity of the Gulf of California to the clear waters of Viti Levu in Fiji, these spots offer great diving experiences with added tranquility.
1. Gulf of California
The Gulf of California is a treasure trove for scuba divers who love exploring rich marine environments. With a staggering 9,824 restaurants nearby and 273 activities to enjoy, you’re never short of things to do above or below water.
The area sees an average of 1,670 Google searches per month by potential visitors, and with hotel prices averaging at $137.60 per night, it offers a balance of affordability and variety. The gulf’s waters are home to diverse species, making every dive an opportunity to spot something new.
2. Dominica, Caribbean
Dominica is a gem in the Caribbean that often goes unnoticed. With 168 restaurants and 46 activities, it provides a cozy, intimate diving experience. It attracts a modest interest online with 2,620 average monthly Google searches.
Divers can enjoy clear waters and vibrant marine life without the heavy tourist traffic of more popular Caribbean destinations. The average hotel price stands at $222.20 per night, making it a mid-range option for travelers who prefer a peaceful setting.
3. Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Raja Ampat is not just a diver’s paradise but also a haven of tranquility with only one restaurant and 14 activities focused on the natural environment. Despite its seclusion, it garners 28,095
Google searches per month, indicating a growing interest in its untouched beauty. The hotel price per night averages at $141.20, offering an affordable stay amidst one of the most biodiverse marine habitats on the planet.
4. Key Largo, Florida Keys
Key Largo, located in the Florida Keys, is a bustling dive spot known for its shipwrecks and living coral reef barriers. It has 111 restaurants and 27 activities to choose from, along with an average of 39,424 Google searches per month, reflecting its popularity.
However, it remains underrated compared to other Florida Keys destinations. Hotel prices average at $349.20 per night, catering to a more luxury-seeking crowd.
5. Viti Levu, Fiji
Viti Levu, the largest island in Fiji, offers a diving experience with zero distractions from the digital world, as evidenced by an absence of Google searches. With only 343 restaurants and 6 activities, it promises an exclusive and serene adventure.
The average nightly hotel rate is $128.40, making it the most budget-friendly option on this list for an escape to pristine waters and untouched landscapes.
6. Sesimbra, Portugal
Sesimbra, located in Portugal, is perfect for divers who enjoy exploring historical shipwrecks and vibrant underwater ecosystems.
Despite having 530 restaurants and 30 activities, it only receives 388 Google searches per month, suggesting that many are yet to discover this charming locale. With hotel prices averaging $411.80 per night, it’s a destination that offers luxury alongside unique diving experiences.
7. Vancouver Island, British Columbia
Vancouver Island presents a unique cold-water diving experience against the backdrop of lush forests. With 5,514 restaurants and 17 activities, it’s a place where nature lovers can find both culinary delights and outdoor adventures.
It receives 2,393 Google searches a month and has an average hotel price of $361.90 per night, making it ideal for those who seek comfort in the wilderness.
8. Ari Atoll, Maldives
The Ari Atoll in the Maldives is synonymous with tranquility and spectacular marine life, attracting those who seek solitude under the sea.
With 35 restaurants and 24 activities, it offers a focused and high-quality diving experience, yet surprisingly, it gets zero Google searches per month. The average hotel price is $207.30 per night, providing a peaceful yet affordable getaway.
9. West Palm Beach, Florida
West Palm Beach offers a vibrant diving scene with its proximity to natural reefs and wrecks. It has 1,592 restaurants and 16 activities, attracting an average of 4,247 Google searches per month.
Despite its popularity for other tourist activities, its diving spots remain relatively underappreciated. The average nightly hotel rate is $402.40, catering to those who enjoy upscale accommodations.
10. Palau, Micronesia
Palau is a stunning island nation known for its jellyfish lakes and rich marine biodiversity. It might only have 51 restaurants and 23 activities, but it sees a significant online interest with 5,829 Google searches per month.
With an average hotel price of $416.00 per night, Palau is ideal for luxury travelers seeking an exclusive diving experience in one of the world’s most beautiful natural settings.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.