For travellers who want to explore a world beneath the waves, some destinations stand out for their exceptional marine life, clear waters and unforgettable underwater landscapes. From coral gardens and manta rays to whale sharks and dramatic volcanic formations, these are among the Best Diving Destinations in the World.

Whether you are an experienced diver or planning your first underwater adventure, the world's best diving destinations offer very different experiences, from warm tropical reefs to encounters with some of the ocean's most fascinating creatures.

Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao is known for warm, calm waters and colourful coral reefs, making it one of the best scuba diving destinations for both beginners and experienced divers. Look out for reef sharks, sea turtles, barracuda, stingrays and schools of tropical fish.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Stretching along Australia's Queensland coast, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the planet's most extraordinary marine ecosystems. Divers can encounter sea turtles, reef sharks, clownfish, giant clams and an incredible variety of coral across its vast underwater world.

Great Blue Hole Belize

The Great Blue Hole offers a very different experience, with its enormous circular sinkhole and dramatic underwater formations. Experienced divers can explore deep caves and limestone structures while encountering reef sharks, giant groupers and other Caribbean marine life.

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Located beside the Red Sea, Sharm El Sheikh is celebrated for exceptionally clear water and colourful coral walls. Divers can encounter turtles, moray eels, rays, reef fish and occasional sharks around Ras Mohammed National Park and the nearby Straits of Tiran.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands are among the Top diving destinations for wildlife encounters. Cold, nutrient-rich waters attract hammerhead sharks, sea lions, marine iguanas, rays, turtles and enormous schools of fish, creating some of the most unusual dives on the planet.

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Raja Ampat is famous for extraordinary coral biodiversity and thriving marine ecosystems. Divers can spot manta rays, pygmy seahorses, wobbegong sharks, turtles and huge schools of reef fish among some of the world's richest coral reefs.

Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Remote Cocos Island is a bucket-list destination for experienced divers seeking encounters with large pelagic species. Hammerhead sharks are the star attraction, while manta rays, whale sharks, dolphins, turtles and tuna can also appear in its deep Pacific waters.

If you are researching the top places to go scuba diving, consider the type of experience you want first. Some destinations are ideal for colourful reefs and beginner-friendly conditions, while others are better suited to experienced divers looking for sharks, manta rays or challenging deep-water sites.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the best island hotels in the world?
Some of the world's most sought-after island stays can be found in the Maldives, French Polynesia, Seychelles, Indonesia and the Caribbean, where exceptional settings are paired with personalised service and access to spectacular beaches and marine life.

Which island has the most luxurious hotels?
The Maldives is particularly renowned for its high-end private-island resorts, many of which combine secluded beaches, exceptional dining and direct access to coral reefs.

What are the best island resorts for couples?
The Maldives, Seychelles, Bora Bora and Mauritius are popular choices for couples thanks to their secluded settings, romantic experiences and beautiful coastal scenery.

Which island hotels offer overwater villas?
The Maldives is perhaps best known for overwater villas, with many private-island resorts offering villas positioned directly above turquoise lagoons.

What are the best island hotels for a honeymoon?
For a memorable honeymoon, consider private-island resorts in the Maldives, Bora Bora, Seychelles or Mauritius, particularly properties offering private villas, ocean views, couples' experiences and direct beach or lagoon access.