DIVING IN COSTA RICA

Diving in Costa Rica
Intro

Explore a different side of diving

Costa Rica offers unique diving among lava formations, underwater canyons and rocky reefs, with chances to spot turtles, rays and reef sharks.

Get your diving certificate in Costa Rica

Whether you're taking your first breath underwater or looking to advance your diving skills, Costa Rica is a fantastic place to learn. We offer beginner courses leading to a PADI Open Water certification, as well as advanced diving courses for experienced divers. Training includes both diving theory and pool sessions before heading out to real dive sites. Together with trusted local dive schools, we ensure a safe and fun learning experience.

Seaturtle in Costa Rica
Group in Costa Rica
Swimming in Costa Rica

Seaturtle in Costa Rica

Group in Costa Rica

Swimming in Costa Rica

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Dive the volcanic waters of Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica's top diving destinations, known for its volcanic underwater landscapes, dramatic rock formations and diverse marine life. While many sites are best suited to experienced divers, beginners can also find suitable spots.

Popular dive sites: Punta Quepos, Geos' Ridge, The Devil's Pinnacle
Water temperature: 22–29°C
Visibility: 10–20 m in the dry season, below 10 m in the rainy season
Marine life: Reef sharks, octopuses, stingrays, sea turtles, dolphins and humpback whales during migration seasons.

Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know before diving in Costa Rica!

One of the most popular areas is Manuel Antonio National Park, where dive sites such as Punta Quepos, Geos' Ridge, and The Devil's Pinnacle offer exciting underwater landscapes and abundant marine life.

If diving is your main reason for visiting Costa Rica, staying close to your chosen dive area is the best option. Whether you're looking for accommodation near the volcanic dive sites of Manuel Antonio or another popular diving destination, we can help you find the perfect place to stay. Get in touch with our travel experts, and we'll help you plan a trip that matches your diving experience, travel style, and budget.

Costa Rica offers diving year-round. Water temperatures typically range from 22°C to 29°C, making conditions comfortable in every season. The dry season generally provides the best visibility, often between 10 and 20 metres, while visibility can be lower during the rainy season. Between December and April, divers may even be lucky enough to spot humpback whales in some areas.

Costa Rica offers options for most budgets. Costs vary depending on the dive location, the number of dives, and whether you're booking fun dives or a full certification course. Many travelers choose to combine their holiday with a PADI Open Water course, which includes theory lessons, pool training, and open-water dives. Through KILROY, you can choose from beginner-friendly courses as well as advanced diving experiences with trusted local dive schools.

Absolutely. Costa Rica is a great place to learn how to dive. Beginners can take a PADI Open Water certification course, where they'll learn diving theory, practice skills in a pool, and complete dives at real dive sites under professional supervision. While some locations are best suited to experienced divers, there are also sites that are ideal for those new to scuba diving.

Diving in Costa Rica offers the chance to encounter a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, octopuses, dolphins, and many tropical fish species. Depending on the season and location, you may also spot humpback whales, making every dive a unique experience.

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You should go diving with KILROY if you...

...love adventure and want to challenge yourself

Diving takes you beyond your comfort zone. Beneath the surface, you learn to stay calm, control your breathing, and trust your skills and equipment.

...want to dive with reliable, handpicked dive centres

Our dive schools are selected to give you the best possible experience. We only work with trusted partners to ensure quality and safety underwater.

...want to combine diving with other travel plans

Combine diving with your trip? We'll create a tailor-made itinerary with flights, accommodation and activities that fit together perfectly.

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Experts in Adventure Travel since 1991

For more than 30 years, KILROY has helped curious travellers explore the world through unforgettable adventures. From backpacking trips and round-the-world journeys to working holidays and unique travel experiences, our travel experts are here to help you turn your travel dreams into reality. Travel different. Travel further. Travel with KILROY.

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