Reefs are what scuba diving is all about. These otherworldly formations – tangles of knobbly nodes and fanning fronds – are home to all manner of sea life, from manta rays to snappers. We’ve put together a list of planet earth’s top destinations to explore the best that the oceans have to offer.
Maragogi, Brazil
Clear, shallow and packed with sea life, the galés are ideal for snorkellers
Maragogi is renowned for its swathes of coral reef – known as galés – that form little turquoise pools at low tide. Clear, shallow and packed with sea life, the galés are ideal for snorkellers and first-time scuba divers. Hop on a catamaran and you’ll be whisked out to sea, where you can pop on some fins and glide around with the Maragogi fish. Come nighttime, a beachfront property with gardens and fruit trees does the job nicely. Step forward, Pousada Barra Velha.
Cairns, Australia
Wake up with the sunrise and be diving with turtles by 9
The Great Barrier Reef is the ruler of reefs. To reach the most remote – and rewarding – spots, take a live-aboard boat for a few nights out at sea. Aside from access to spots like the legendary Cod Hole, you can wake up with the sunrise, nibble breakfast on deck, and be diving with turtles by 9. Back on land, a stay with the friendly hosts of Lilybank Bed & Breakfast is a heartwarming bit of R&R.
Cozumel, Mexico
A diver swims toward a whirling school of Blackfin Barracuda
White-sand beaches, outrageously clear waters, abundant sea life – Cozumel is about as close to an island paradise as you can get. The pinnacle of Cozumel diving is Barracuda Reef. This advanced-divers-only spot is known for strong currents and incredible sea life, including rays, hammerhead sharks and its most famous resident, the barracuda. As far as bases go, Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa is hard to beat, with its private beach, spa, and on-site dive shop.
Eilat, Israel
Red lionfish are common in the Red Sea
The Red Sea is synonymous with scuba diving. But while most divers flock to the Egyptian coast, there are plenty of spectacular scuba experiences to be had on the Israeli side. Eilat leads the way, especially for reef diving. Head to the Japanese Gardens for a kilometre of colourful coral, home to morays, giant clams, and sea slugs. After a day under the sea, a stay at Guest House Custo Dive Resort’s quiet location, pool, and dive shop will recharge your scuba batteries.
Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
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This strip of the Egyptian coast is jam-packed with coral