DIVE SITES ISLAS CATALINAS-CATALINA ISLAND
When it comes to diving in Costa Rica, the Catalina Islands offer one of the most unforgettable experiences—an incredible chance to encounter the majestic Pacific Giant Manta Rays in their natural habitat.
Located approximately 20 miles (30 km) south of Playas del Coco, the islands are reached in less than an hour aboard our dive boats. These sites are known for their dynamic conditions, including surge, stronger currents, and open-ocean swells—making them ideal for more experienced divers seeking a true adventure.
All dives at the Catalina Islands are conducted as drift dives without anchoring, and are therefore reserved for advanced divers who are comfortable with deeper profiles and changing conditions.
Our Catalina dive trips include two dives at different sites, with the option to arrange a three-tank expedition for those wanting even more time underwater. Boats depart at 7:30 am and typically return around 1:30 pm.
For added convenience, we also offer beach pickups by boat from a wide selection of resorts, including Andaz Papagayo, Bosque del Mar, Casa Conde del Mar, El Mangroove, Four Seasons, Four Seasons Exclusive, Golden Palms, Nekajui, Occidental Papagayo, Planet Hollywood, RIU Guanacaste, RIU Palace, Secrets Papagayo, and Waldorf Astoria.
You’ll travel to the islands aboard one of our fully equipped dive boats, designed for both comfort and safety. Each vessel features a sunroof, marine radio, GPS, oxygen and first aid kits—as well as a cooler stocked with refreshing drinks and fresh fruit to keep you energized between dives.
The following is a sampling of Catalina Islands dive sites:
La Punta – The Point (40-110ft)
This easy drift dive is the most comfortable way to look out for giant manta rays. We begin with a free descent on the shallow side of the island, then drift south with the current into deeper water, where we can spot adult whitetip reef sharks.
Level: advanced, sometimes current and sometimes strong current
La Pared – The Wall (40-70ft)
A breathtaking shark channel offers you a glimpse into the home of whitetip reef sharks. After passing through the channel, you drift northwest over a coral garden, where you may glide through the water alongside giant manta rays, eagle rays, and schools of cow-nose rays.
Level: advanced, sometimes current and sometimes strong current
