You slip over the side of the boat and make your way into the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean. Then you slowly drift below the surface of the expansive blue water, going deeper and deeper under the waves. You go deeper into the depths to explore the magnificent coral reefs below, and as you look around, you understand why they say diving at Cano Island is one of the very best dive spots in all of Costa Rica.
Immediately you are struck by the sheer array of marine life, colors, even textures of the reef itself. You may see a microcosm of vibrantly colored fish swimming by, and broad and flat ebony fish as they lazily cruise by. Or be entertained by the parade of zesty orange and yellow schools that zip by as if they know exactly where they are going. It appears as another world untapped by humans, and you are privileged to observe its inhabitants who don’t even seem to notice your presence hovering above them.
Scuba diving at Cano Island is one of the very best ways to enjoy your precious vacation time while in Costa Rica. It can even be considered a bucket-list worthy affair, especially if you are already a keen diver.
Along the Pacific Coast, in most of the bigger towns, there are a number of PADI certified dive tours available to take you out for a day trip to Cano Island. Or, if you have the time, enroll in one of the dive courses offered as most of the companies are also PADI certified dive schools. All equipment, park entrance fees, water and snacks are provided on your diving tour.
If you choose to enjoy your diving in the Southern Pacific Zone in particular, you will find some other amazing marine locations as well. The Ballena National Marine Park is located in Uvita, and offers another great dive location for those visiting during high season, December to April, when the visibility is much better. Which is another one of the reasons for diving at Cano Island, the visibility is usually great all year round. The famed Playa Ventanas, just past Uvita, is a beautiful beach known for its window-like caves accessible to the ocean beyond during low tide. A beautiful spot to stop for lunch, walk on the beach, splash in the surf, or simply relax under the palm trees.
Diving at Cano Island, you can expect nearly perfect crystal clear waters, and a range of marine diversity that will keep you mystified for hours. If only your air tanks would last that long. While at the reef, you might see an abundance of wildlife, such as reef sharks, sea turtles, dolphins, humpback whales, and a plethora of fish species.
If you are just a beginner at scuba diving, not to worry. The tour operators, instructors, and guides are all there to make you feel at ease the entire time. They will walk you through each step, giving you needed safety instructions before beginning your dive. It’s easy to get right to enjoying this adventure knowing that the staff and guides making it a fun and safe environment.
Both Cano Island and the Ballena National Park are filled with history, biodiversity, and interesting natural phenomena. You will be glad you planned your vacation for these two stunning highlights, whether you choose to explore above or below the water.
Get ready for the vacation of your dreams. After scuba diving in these two pristine locations, you’ll be ready to start planning your return visit to Southern Costa Rica! Be sure to Contact Us so we can help you plan your trip.