World's Best Shore Diving Locations

Batfish in shallow waters

by Caroline Istas

If you are interesting in Scuba diving, you have two primary options to choose from: shore diving and dive boating. The main advantage offered by the first of these options is that you do not have to spend hours on a ship just to get to your destination. There are countless beautiful destinations that you have to choose from where you can go diving directly off of the shore. Another benefit of choosing this method is that you will be saving money because most shore dives cost less than diving from a boat.

One of the most popular resorts that you have to choose from for shore diving is Bonaire. Nestled at the peak of an underwater mountain, deep reefs surround most of the island so there are plenty of things to see and areas to navigate through. Over 80 different markers on the shoreline that mark off areas where divers can simply walk off of the shore and straight into underwater paradises filled with coral, exquisite marine life, and other fascinating sights.

It’s practically like being in an underwater museum and best of all is that it is all only 3 to 4 minutes off of the shore. Another great world location for shore diving that you may want to look into is the Great Barrier Reef at Lady Elliot Island. This spot is most appreciated for its multi-colored coral reefs that are literally teaming with all types of fish that you will be able to see up close and personal. These beautiful reefs are located off the coast of Australia's Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. One of the world’s locations for shore diving that is definitely considered by many to be a must visit is the Cayman Islands. Even though this destination may be best known for its many dive sites that are only reachable by boat, it also have many sites that can be reached right off of the shore and that are available to you at any hour of the day. The pier in George Town is a locals’ favorite, as is Babylon, a site located on the North Shore.

The final site for shore diving that this article will discuss is Curacao which is located in the Southwestern Caribbean. This is an area that is surrounded by gorgeous barrier reefs, walls, and even a few sunken ships to add to the experience. Some resorts and secluded beaches in the area offer you the ability to walk right off shore where you will almost immediate be greeted with some of the most attractive multi-colored corals in existence. You are also certain to enjoy the many tropical fish that populate the area, especially the barracuda which are numerous here.

These are just a few of the many sites worldwide where you will be able to participate in shore diving.

Discuss your favourite shore diving spots in the following forum post- Shore Diving