10 Best Places to Scuba Dive in 2025, Raja Ampat Tops the List

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The United States Geological Survey revealed that 71% of Earth’s surface is covered by water, with the ocean accounting for approximately 96.5% of the overall figure. Given the data, diving into the depths promises far more extravagant discoveries than those on the surface, offering experiences that can be best appreciated through .

Across the globe, some of the best places to scuba dive allow adventurers to interact with vibrant coral reefs, explore mysterious shipwrecks, and discover the rich biodiversity beneath the waves.

List of the Best Places to Scuba Dive

Outside and Travel and Leisure highlight Indonesia, specifically Raja Ampat Islands, among the world’s best places to scuba dive. Read on to learn more and find out other spots worth exploring.

1. Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia

Nestled in West Papua, Islands have long been celebrated as the world’s best place to scuba dive. Surrounded by majestic karst landscapes, the marine life underneath the archipelago’s turquoise waters is unlike other places.

According to Wonderful Indonesia, Raja Ampat features a strikingly abundant unique life, with around 540 types of corals, 1,000 types of coral fish, and 700 mollusks. If you dive here, you will encounter almost 75% of the world’s species.

2. Monterey, California

As many are familiar with, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is renowned for its amazing deep-sea footage. Yet, the county's diving sites are equally extraordinary. 

For scuba divers, Monterey offers a unique experience with its distinct underwater landscapes, including canyons and kelp forests. The undersea canyon here is comparable in size to the Grand Canyon, making it a must-see destination. You'll encounter California sea stars and fried egg jellyfish, which are easily spotted in these waters.

3. Tuamotu Archipelago, French Polynesia

While snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Tuamotu Archipelago is fun enough, the experience of scuba diving here is incredible. Popular spots include the atoll passages near Fakarava, Rangiroa, and Tikehau. You will have the chance to witness hundreds of gray reef sharks, massive manta rays, and wild dolphins.

4. Palau, Oceania

Palau’s underwater world is nothing short of magical. This archipelago is a haven for divers seeking rich biodiversity and unique underwater ecosystems. Popular dive sites are scattered throughout the waters, accessible by both liveaboard and land-based resorts.

Favorites include Jellyfish Lake, Blue Corner, German Channel, and Ulong Channel, each promising encounters with marvelous creatures like rays, sharks, and schools of colorful fish.

5. Cozumel, Mexico

Expect to be transported into a coral city as you dive beneath the blue waters of Cozumel. The island, located just off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, offers access to the Great Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. More to that, Cozumel is home to the endemic Splendid Toadfish, which you may encounter among its coral reefs. 

6. Maldives

The Maldives is not just a dream , but it is also an extraordinary diving spot. Beneath its crystal-clear waters, you'll discover an underwater paradise teeming with life: 1,200 species of fish, 300 species of corals, and 600 species of crustaceans. Whether you dive from luxurious resorts, liveaboards, or even more budget-friendly local islands, there is an adventure waiting for you beneath the surface

7. Belize

Belize is a bucket-list destination for scuba enthusiasts, and it is easy to see why. The Blue Hole, one of the world’s best places to scuba dive, attracts divers from all over the world to explore its massive underwater sinkhole.

But that is just the beginning—Belize is also home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, teeming with 1,400 species of marine life. For a truly unforgettable experience, dive at night and encounter fascinating nocturnal creatures like the elusive Caribbean reef squid.

8. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Diving sites in Galapagos Islands are simply extraordinary. This UNESCO World Heritage site has been referred to as a living museum and a showcase of evolution, reflecting the otherworldly nature of its marine world. 

Therefore, diving alongside unique sea creatures like marine iguanas, playful penguins, giant sunfish, and schools of hammerhead sharks is not just a dream—it is an unforgettable reality in the Galapagos.

9. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

No list of the best places to scuba dive is complete without the Great Barrier Reef. As the world’s largest reef system, it offers endless opportunities for exploration. It’s a divers’ dream, where the crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral gardens are what surround incredible sea creatures like dugongs, majestic whale sharks, dwarf minkewhales, and graceful manta rays.

10. Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Cocos Island is another must-visit diving spot, and while it is a bit off the beaten path, it is totally worth the effort. Situated off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, the only way to reach this remote island is by a liveaboard dive boat. But once you are there, the adventure truly begins. 

You will have the chance to dive with majestic schools of hammerheads, manta rays, and even whale sharks. Plus, Cocos is home to 27 endemic fish species, including the quirky red-lipped batfish, adding an extra layer of magic to this already unforgettable diving experience.

These 10 best places to scuba dive each stand out with their unique charm. Whether you are swimming with sharks in Palau or discovering the vibrant coral reefs of Cozumel, every dive is an adventure.

For those planning to embark on an exciting adventure this year, you might be inspired to explore .

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