Curaçao, a jewel in the Caribbean, not only has white beaches and a rich culture, but it is also home to some of the healthiest and most biodiverse coral reefs in the region. It is not surprising that this Dutch Caribbean island is known as one of the top 10 diving and vacation destinations in the world. Whether you are a snorkeler, a beginning diver or a seasoned openwater diver, Curaçao has the perfect dive site for you.
Curaçao has more than 60 beautiful dive sites that vary in difficulty and underwater scenery. A perfect example is the "Wreck of a Tugboat," located just five meters deep. This dive site is not only feasible for experienced divers but also accessible for snorkelers. You can explore the shipwreck here, but also dive along the underwater cliff and admire the colorful marine life.
For adventurers, there are also deeper dive sites, such as the "MV Superior Producer," a wreck at a depth of about 30 meters, and "Klein Curaçao," a small uninhabited island known for its crystal clear waters and impressive wall dives.
One of the most unique dive sites on Curaçao is "De Blauwe Kamer," an underwater cave that is absolutely unmissable. The mysterious atmosphere and beautiful sea life in this cave make it an unforgettable diving experience.
Although Curaçao's dive sites are breathtaking, it is crucial to put safety first. It is not recommended to dive alone, especially if you are unfamiliar with the waters around the island. Fortunately, there are lots of well-established diving schools in Curaçao that can help you. They offer beginner courses, guided dives and equipment rentals.
So, if you're looking for a diving adventure characterized by crystal clear waters, colorful corals and an abundance of marine life, definitely consider a dive into the deep. This island offers not only a beautiful above-water world, but also an enchanting underwater experience that will stay with you for a long time. Dive into the beauty of Curaçao and discover why it is a top destination for diving lovers from all over the world.
Top Locations:
Alice in Wonderland (Playa Kalki):
Known for mushroom coral colonies and various fish and rays. Suitable for both beginners and advanced divers. Great for night diving.
Tugboat Dive Site:
A famous dive and snorkel site with a shipwreck covered with coral just 5 meters deep. Next to the wreck is a reef with lots of marine life to explore.
Dive site Rolling Stones:
Sometimes called the "eighteenth hole" because of its proximity to the Blue Bay Golf Resort. Here you can search the sea floor for lost golf balls and barracudas and encounter schools of fish. Suitable for beginners and advanced divers.
Barracuda Point (Punt'i Piku):
Known for barracudas and a great place to see sea turtles and beautiful coral formations. Ideal for advanced divers.
Saba Dive Site:
Features a wreck of a tugboat located less than 9 meters deep. Although the boat has fallen into disrepair, over the years it has become home to various marine animals.
Mushroom Forest Dive Spot:
A popular dive site with coral formations resembling mushrooms, hence the name.
The Valley Dive Spot:
It's not really a valley, but a gap between two reefs teeming with marine life. A great place to encounter sharks, parrotfish, groupers and various tropical species.
Hell's Corner Dive Site:
Despite its intimidating name, this dive site is suitable for divers of all levels. Named because of the strong flow, it is now an ideal spot to find brain corals, sea anemones, barracudas and sea turtles.
Seldom Reef Dive Site:
Originally unpopular, this dive site has gained an ironic name as it gains popularity. It is a very deep dive with a steep 90-degree wall, suitable for intermediate to advanced divers.
Beacon Point Dive Site:
A 30-meter deep dive site with the largest coral pillar formation in the Caribbean Sea. Fantastic for spotting barracudas and groupers. Not suitable for beginners because of the strong flow.