Scuba Diving in North Puntarenas

North Puntarenas includes the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica along with a portion of the Nicoya Peninsula. This region is famous for its gorgeous beaches, national parks, superb surfing and top-notch sportfishing. A short drive from San Jose, North Puntarenas is an easily accessible region of the country, where you can find both tourists and locals in large numbers. The best time to visit here is during the dry season from December to April, when the weather is at its best.

Where to Go

Scuba diving in North Puntarenas is a popular activity with a number of beaches in this part of the country having excellent water conditions. The water temperature is warm throughout the year with the underwater visibility extremely good in certain areas. On the Nicoya Peninsula, scuba diving is best around the Mal Pais and Santa Theresa area and near Montezuma. The beaches here are nice and pretty, with the underwater marine life here superb. You can spot schools of tropical fish swim by among the many reef and rock formations. Tuna, hammerhead sharks, dorado and sailfish can also be spotted here in huge numbers, along with dolphins, whales and turtles during their migration season.

Other Places

Along the Central Pacific Coast, the area around Jaco has some good diving opportunities. There are also plenty of tour operators in the area, who can help you find some great diving spots. Around Quepos and Manuel Antonio, there is some good diving available as well. The marine life here is rich and varied with soft corals and a variety of fish species. Whales, dolphins, rays, turtles, snapper, grouper, barracuda and eels can all be found swimming here, amidst many brightly colored tropical fish. Night dives are also available here. Further south of Manuel Antonio, on the way to Dominical and Uvita, you can also find some good dive destinations.

Map of North Puntarenas

Click to enlarge map - North Puntarenas Map

Choose the Best

When scuba diving in North Puntarenas, make sure you picked a NAUI or PADI certified dive operation with reliable credentials. Be sure to have your equipment and oxygen tanks double-checked before you go for a dive and always swim near your dive guide. If you are planning on scuba diving alone be sure to inform someone where you are going, in case of any emergency. If you staying at a hotel, many resorts and accommodations also have their own scuba diving instructors and gear.