There are hundreds of amazing dive sites on planet Earth, but many true gems remain unseen simply because they aren’t located at the tourist hotspots. And in a way that is unfortunate as they are the true treasures you should discover during your trips. So start amending your bucket list right away as it should include the following destinations that have not yet been trampled by the hordes of tourists.
5 Incredible Dive Sites Few People Get to See
Yonaguni Monument, Japan
For experienced and skilled divers only, the Yonaguni Monument in Japan is one of the world’s greatest mysteries. If you aren’t at that level yet, the prospect of seeing the extraordinary rock monoliths should be your motivation to keep improving. There are still arguments about whether the formations are natural or made by people.
One thing’s for sure; any diver who gets a chance to see the spectacular monument will hold that memory dear for life. Hundreds of hammerhead sharks that can be seen nearby will also contribute to the momentous adventure.
For all that this place is incredible, it’s not recognized as a site of any natural or historical value by the government. This is why there aren’t many tourists around, but also why no preservation efforts are taking place.
Derawan Islands, Malaysia
Out of the hundreds of sites in Malaysia, the dive Derawan Islands offer is one of the most beautiful and memorable. There are 30 dive sites around the 31 islands of the archipelago, and if possible, you should try to see them all.
Only two of the islands are inhabited, so finding accommodation nearby won’t be easy. However, you will be able to see how the sea gypsies live in the modern world.
In the meantime, enjoy exploring one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. The marine life is extremely rich in the waters around Derawan Islands. Therefore, every dive is a unique opportunity to learn a bit more about our planet’s many inhabitants.
Dream Gate Cenote, Mexico
Exploring underwater caves is a different kind of pleasure for a diver. And there is no better place to do this than Dream Gate Cenote in Mexico. It won’t be an easy dive and getting access to it is a challenge in itself. However, it’s one of the places that you really must see before you die.
This cenote is fantastic and rock formations within it are so incredibly intricate, they seem more like lace than stalactites and stalagmites that have been carved by water for millennia. You can spend the rest of your vacation exploring other cenotes, but no dive site nearby will match this one in sheer beauty.
Greenland
It’s not all coral reefs and underwater caves for a diver who is really looking for diversity. Diving among icebergs is an experience you need to add to your bucket list if you want to see different types of underwater beauty. It’s also an adventure that will give you an adrenalin rush to remember.
Greenland is the best place for this kind of adventure. Alas, you’ll be able to dive here only for a short period in spring. Therefore, plan it in advance and never, ever try diving among icebergs without an experienced guide. This is exceedingly dangerous as huge masses of ice can break down at any time.
Tubattha Reef, Philippines
Tubattha Reef is such an important place due to its biodiversity that it gained the status of a national park. It’s well-known but not often visited because it’s rather hard to reach.
However, any amount of work you’ll need to do in order to secure a diving adventure here is worth it. The terrain is magnificent and abundance of marine life will make this dive incredible for anyone who wants to see some rare species. It’s one of the few places where you can see manta rays up close.
