🇨🇷 Costa Rica

Costa Rica has strong coastal diving on both sides of the country: the Caribbean Sea (east coast) and the Pacific Ocean (west coast). Most dives are drift dives or reef and wall profiles around accessible coastal spots, with visibility that can vary by season and weather. Water is generally warm year-round, and many sites are suitable for Open Water divers, while currents on the Pacific side can require more experience. A major “once-in-a-trip” option is Cocos Island, which is known for its pelagic life and is commonly visited on liveaboards from Pacific ports. On the Caribbean side, diving is often calmer nearshore, with reefs and occasional encounters with larger marine animals depending on conditions. Overall, Costa Rica is a good choice if you want natural, ecosystem-focused diving plus the option to combine multiple coasts in one trip.