Best Scuba Diving Locations in the World

Scuba diving is one of those activities that really give people a new perspective on the world around them. With the right setting, divers get to see fish up close and gain a glimpse of what like life is like underneath the sea.

In order for scuba diving to be really worth it, you need to go to a place where the water is clear, the fish are plentiful, and the sea feels good. The number of places where scuba divers can experience this is shrinking due to pollution and global warming.

According to travel experts, these are the best scuba diving locations in the world. Enjoy these while they're still around.

The Coasts of Indonesia

Though the country may be close to a number of majorly industrialized countries, the coasts of Indonesia have regularly been cited as the best scuba diving locations in the world by many tourist guides. It's not hard to see why, either.

The crystal clear waters, plentiful exotic creatures, and one of the most photogenic shipwrecks in the world all make for an amazing scuba diving experience. Since Indonesia has around 17,000 islands in its borders, there's probably a scuba location for everyone out there.

The Galapagos Islands

Environmentalists and zoologists can tell you why the Galapagos Islands rest among the best scuba diving locations in the world. This beautiful province of Ecuador is home to some of the world's most endangered species — many of which live right off the coast.

Waters are always a clear, emerald green here. The sand is soft. Best of all, there's always a chance you might discover rare sea creatures swimming by you, or even discover an animal that is still unknown to man.

It's breathtakingly beautiful here, and tourists will find the scuba diving to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience not worth missing. Beginner scuba divers will also like this location, primarily because they also offer snorkeling for those worried about the tank weighing them down.

The Red Sea

The Red Sea is the watery gem of the Middle East, and also has claimed to be one of the best scuba diving locations in the world. The reason why the Red Sea is such a popular scuba diving destination is that it has a slew of different diving schools that allow beginners to try the sport out...and also because of the amazing sealife you'll see here.

Home to sharks, dolphins, and schools of beautifully exotic fish, the Red Sea has always been a popular tourist destination. Excellent beachside lodging is the norm here, and if you're the religious type, taking a trip to Jerusalem is a great way to finish your tour.

Overall, great amenities and even greater wildlife make this a very good choice for scuba divers of all levels.

Bonaire

For people who are in the scuba diving scene, seeing Bonaire on a list of the best scuba diving locations in the world won't raise an eyebrow. This desert island's tourist industry is almost entirely dedicated to diving and snorkeling, thanks to its insanely clear waters.

24/7 access to the shores is what sets Bonaire apart from most other scuba diving locations. So, if you want a night swim, this is the place to do it.

The Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands are known for their crisp, clear waters as well as their thriving tourist industry. Beautiful flora and fauna can be found both on the island itself and in the waters.

Scuba divers who come here get to swim with massive schools of fish, explore underwater rock formations, and also get to live it up in the island sun. A romantic tourist destination for couples as well, it's easy to see why the coasts of the Cayman Islands are considered to be some of the best scuba diving locations in the world.

The Bahamas

Much like the Cayman Islands, the Bahamas have long been known as tourist hotspots, honeymoon destination vacation islands, and for being a place where people go to catch a cruise. The Bahamas definitely earned their sterling rep, especially when you consider how much effort they put into keeping their beaches pristine.

The beautiful beaches, great resorts, and ample scuba diving schools also happen to be reasons why it's considered to be one of the best scuba diving locations in the world.

British Columbia

Many people who think about scuba diving assume that it's something that's only done in warm, islandy areas. What they may not realize is that one of the best scuba diving locations in the world rests off the coast of Canada.

It's surprising, but it's very true. British Columbia is known for having deep waters that are clear enough to provide awesome sights for those who choose to dive in. Ample wildlife and sea life make British Columbia a hidden gem in the diving scene — and a very affordable alternative to a Caribbean vacation.