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Best Spots to Scuba Dive

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Some crave steep snowy peaks. Others bask in a bustling metropolis. And some want a labyrinth of reefs, streaked in bright blues, yellows, and reds, swarming with bizarrely beautiful undersea creatures. For those aqua-oriented souls, we've compiled a list of Oyster's top scuba diving destinations.
 

1. Costa Rica

Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo (Rating: 5.0 Pearls)
Location: Guanacaste, Costa Rica

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Don't let Costa Rica's small size fool you. It's packed with spectacular marine life and an abundance of diving spots. Its beaches boast some of the sea's most colorful creatures, both big and small. With cooler, nutrient-rich waters, divers often see dolphins, whale sharks, and humpback whales. If you're feeling extra adventurous, Cocos Island, an uninhabited island more than 300 miles off the coast, is one of the world's most-treasured diving spots, with oodles of Hammerhead, ray, and dolphin sightings. It's normal to see dozens or even hundreds of these animals on every dive. If you're traveling between December and mid-April, make sure to pack some exposure protection, as water temps have been known to dip relatively low.

Where to Stay

Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo

Easily among the most luxurious resorts in Central America, The Four Seasons is as close to perfection as it gets. With two beautiful beaches, ocean views from each one of the sumptuous rooms -- decorated in materials including wood, bamboo, and stone -- and an 18-hole golf course, the resort makes it possible for guests to spend their whole vacation on-site.

JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

The JW Marriott is one of the top luxury properties in Guanacaste, with beautiful, hacienda-style architecture (think: lots of wood and stone, romantic white hammocks, wrought iron light fixtures and indigenous art). The stunning free-form pool is the largest in Central America, and the tranquil spa is world-class.
 

The 202-room Hilton Papagayo is an excellent upscale all-inclusive option in Guanacaste, with a decent beach and comfortable (if generic) rooms. It's quieter and classier than your typical all-inclusive, with brand-name liquor, no annoying bracelets, solid (it not exceptional) food, and live music or karaoke rather than embarrassing staff performances.