Puerto Rico is a popular destination for scuba diving, and for good reason. With its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and diverse dive sites, there is something for everyone. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, this guide will give you all the information you need to plan your perfect scuba diving trip to Puerto Rico.
From the best time to go to what to expect underwater, read on for the ultimate guide to scuba diving in Puerto Rico.
Also check out our other travel guides to plan the perfect dive trip for you!
Table of Contents
Why It Is Great for Scuba Diving in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico boasts some of the best scuba diving in the Caribbean. The clear waters and abundance of sea life make it a popular destination for divers of all levels. From beginner to expert, there are plenty of dive sites to explore around Puerto Rico. And with average water temperatures ranging from 77-86 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s a great place to dive year-round.
One of the best things about scuba diving in Puerto Rico is the variety of dive sites on offer. There are over 50 registered dive sites around the island, so you’re sure to find one that suits your level and interests.
Another reason why scuba diving in Puerto Rico is so popular is the abundance of sea life. The warm waters are home to a variety of tropical fish, turtles and even dolphins. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale while you’re diving!
Puerto Rico’s Best Diving Spots
Puerto Rico is home to some of the best diving spots in the Caribbean. From the world-renowned reefs of Puerto Rico’s east coast to the stunning wrecks of its west coast, there is something for every level of diver to enjoy.
Best Spots for Scuba Diving in Fajardo
Cayo Diablo
Cayo Diablo is one of the best spots for scuba diving in Fajardo, due to its variety of coral reefs, shipwrecks, and caves. The reefs around Cayo Diablo are home to a wide array of colorful fish, such as parrotfish, angelfish, and triggerfish. These reefs are also a great place to see turtles, stingrays, and eels. In addition to the amazing marine life, there are also several shipwrecks around Cayo Diablo that are perfect for exploring. The caves around the island are another popular spot for scuba diving, as they offer a unique and thrilling experience.
San Slide
The site is known for its dramatic underwater cliffs, caves, and canyons.
San Slide is located off the east coast of Puerto Rico, in the town of Fajardo. The site can be reached by boat or by swimming from the shore.
The underwater features at San Slide are truly unique. The site features steep cliffs, caves, and canyons that create a dramatic landscape.
The cliffs are covered in soft corals and sponges, providing food and shelter for a variety of fish species. The caves and canyons offer divers a chance to explore an otherworldly environment.
Visibility at San Slide is typically good, making it a great spot for both novice and experienced divers alike.
Palomino’s Wall
The island is home to a wall that drops down to about 100 feet. This is a great spot for divers of all levels, as there are plenty of shallower areas to explore as well.
Best Spots for Scuba Diving in Plata
Coral Garden
The best thing about scuba diving in Plata is the variety of marine life that you can see. One of the best places to see this variety is at Coral Garden. Here, you can find over 500 different species of coral and fish. The colors are absolutely stunning, and it’s a great place to take photos or just observe the beauty of the underwater world.
Ray Point
Ray Point is a popular scuba diving destination in Plata. The clear waters and abundance of marine life make it a perfect place to explore the underwater world. There are a variety of dive sites to choose from, so you can find one that suits your level of experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll be sure to find something to enjoy at Ray Point.
Puntilla
Puntilla is one of the best scuba diving spots in Plata. The clear waters and abundance of marine life make it a perfect place to explore the underwater world. There are many dive sites to choose from, so you can find one that suits your level of experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll find plenty to see and do at Puntilla.
Best Spots for Scuba Diving in Rincon
La Parguera
La Parguera is a small fishing village located on the southwestern coast of Puerto Rico. It is known for its Bioluminescent Bay, which is one of only four bioluminescent bays in the world. The bay is full of tiny microorganisms called dinoflagellates, which light up when they are disturbed. This makes for an incredible sight at night, when the water lit up by the dinoflagellates looks like stars shining in the sky.
La Parguera is also a popular diving destination. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it a great place to explore. There are several dive sites around La Parguera, including the famous Elbow Reef. Elbow Reef is home to a variety of corals and fish, as well as an abundance of sponges and other invertebrates.
Tres Palmas
Tres Palmas is one of the best dive sites in Rincon, Puerto Rico. The dive site is located off the coast of the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve, which is a protected area that is home to a variety of marine life. The reserve is also a great place to see coral reefs and other underwater features.
The dive site itself is made up of three areas: the shallows, the drop-off, and the wall. The shallows are shallow enough for beginner divers to explore, while the drop-off and wall are perfect for more experienced divers. There is a wide variety of marine life to be found at Tres Palmas, including corals, sponges, fish, and turtles.
Best Spots for Scuba Diving in San Juan
Turn Island
There are several dive sites around Turn Island, each with its own unique features. The reef at El Condesito is perfect for beginners, while the wrecks at La Parguera offer more advanced divers an exciting challenge. No matter what your level of experience, you’re sure to find a dive site that suits your needs.
When you’re not diving, there’s plenty to do on the island itself. Take a hike to the top of El Yunque, Puerto Rico’s tallest mountain, or relax on one of the many beaches. There’s also plenty of great food and drink to be found, so you can refuel after a day of exploring the underwater world.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just getting started, Turn Island is the perfect place to explore all that Puerto Rico has to offer beneath the waves.
Smallpox Bay
Smallpox Bay is located on the west side of San Juan Island and is one of the most popular scuba diving spots in the area. The bay is home to a variety of marine life, including seals, sea lions, octopuses, and a variety of fish species. The visibility in the bay is typically good, making it a great spot for both beginner and experienced divers.
Lime Kiln Point
Lime Kiln Point is a great spot for scuba diving in San Juan. The water is crystal clear and there are plenty of fish to see. The reef is also home to a variety of coral and other marine life.
Reuben Tarte Park
Reuben Tarte Park, located in Isla Verde, is one of the best spots for scuba diving in San Juan. The clear waters and wide variety of marine life make it a popular destination for both beginner and experienced divers.
The park has two diving areas – the reef and the wall. The reef is shallow (about 15 feet/5 meters) and perfect for beginners. It’s also home to a wide variety of marine life, including coral, fish, turtles, and stingrays. The wall is much deeper (about 100 feet/30 meters), making it better suited for experienced divers. But it’s also where you’ll find some of the most beautiful underwater scenery in Puerto Rico.
Best Dive Shops in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a renowned scuba diving destination, boasting beautiful reefs, clear waters and an abundance of marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced diver, there’s a dive shop to suit your needs. Here are our picks for the best dive shops in Puerto Rico.
- The Dive Shop: This PADI 5-Star Instructor Development Center is located in the heart of San Juan and offers everything from Intro to Scuba classes to advanced diving courses. They also organize day trips and liveaboard charters to some of Puerto Rico’s best dive sites.
- Aqua Adventure: Aqua Adventure is a full-service dive center located in the northwest town of Aguadilla. They offer PADI certification courses, equipment rentals and guided dives at some of Puerto Rico’s top dive sites, including the famous La Monserrate reef.
- Dive Puerto Rico: Dive Puerto Rico is based in the town of Fajardo on the northeast coast of the island. They offer both PADI and SSI certification courses as well as guided dives and snorkeling tours. Their knowledgeable staff can also help you plan custom diving adventures throughout Puerto Rico.
Best Time to Scuba Dive in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a great place to scuba dive all year round, but the best time to scuba dive in Puerto Rico is from mid-April to mid-June. This is when the water temperature is at its warmest and the visibility is at its best. The trade winds also die down during this time, making for calm conditions on the water.
Some Interesting Facts About Puerto Rico for Scuba Divers
Here are some interesting facts about Puerto Rico for scuba divers:
- Puerto Rico has over 300 miles of coastline and more than 50 dive sites.
- The average water temperature is a warm 84 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Puerto Rico is home to the only living coral reef in the United States.
- There are a variety of dive operators offering scuba diving tours and courses.
Prices You Can Expect Per Dive with Dive Shops in Puerto Rico
The average price of a scuba diving trip with a dive shop in Puerto Rico is $120-$150 per person. This includes the cost of renting equipment, hiring a certified instructor, and fills for your tanks.
If you are staying at a resort that offers scuba diving, you can expect to pay less, as they will often include the cost of equipment rental and instruction in the price of your stay. There are also many independent dive shops and instructors that offer their services for an even lower cost than what you would find at a resort.
What to Pack for Your Puerto Rico Scuba Diving Trip
When packing for your trip, be sure to bring along your scuba diving gear, including your wetsuit, fins, and mask. You will also need to bring a towel and sunscreen. If you are planning on diving during the day, you should pack a lunch and snacks. For evening dives, you may want to bring a light jacket or sweater. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own equipment – all dive shops will be able to help you out with rental equipment.
Things to Consider Before Going on a Scuba Diving Vacation in Puerto Rico
When planning a scuba diving vacation in Puerto Rico, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, the island has a tropical climate, so the water temperature is usually warm and the visibility is good. However, Hurricane Season runs from June to November, so it’s best to avoid those months if possible.
Second, there are many different dive sites to choose from, so it’s important to do some research beforehand and pick a few that look interesting.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to book a tour with a reputable company that can provide all of the necessary gear and information.
Where Should You NOT Dive in Puerto Rico?
There are a few areas where scuba diving is not recommended in Puerto Rico. These are typically near populated areas or where there is a lot of boat traffic. Divers should avoid these areas:
- Near the shore in San Juan: There is a lot of boat traffic near the shore, making it dangerous for divers.
- Near the El Morro fortress: There is a strong current near the El Morro fortress, making it less suitable for scuba diving.
- Around Culebra Island: There are many reefs and rocks around Culebra Island, making it not the ideal place to go scuba diving.
What To Do When Not Scuba Diving in Puerto Rico?
While scuba diving is definitely one of the best ways to experience all that Puerto Rico has to offer, there are plenty of other things to do when you’re not diving. Here are just a few ideas:
- Visit one of the many beaches. Puerto Rico has over 300 miles of coastline, so there’s sure to be a beach that suits your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or something more active like windsurfing or kitesurfing, you’ll find it here.
- Explore the rainforest. Puerto Rico is home to the El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest system. Hiking through the forest is a great way to see some of the island’s unique plant and animal life.
- Take a tour of Old San Juan. This historic city is full of Spanish colonial architecture, museums, and art galleries. A walking tour is a great way to learn about the city’s history and get an up-close look at its beautiful buildings.
- Visit one of Puerto Rico’s many festivals. From the world-famous Carnival in February to smaller celebrations throughout the year, there’s always something going on on this vibrant island.
FAQ
Is Puerto Rico good for scuba diving?
Puerto Rico is a scuba diving paradise, with crystal clear waters, amazing marine life and plenty of dive sites to explore. The island is also home to some of the best scuba diving schools in the world, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll be able to find a dive school that’s right for you.
Can you scuba dive in Puerto Rico without certification?
Although diving in Puerto Rico is relatively easy and can be done without certification in many cases, we highly recommend getting certified before scuba diving.
The island has many beginner-friendly dive sites that are perfect for newcomers to the sport. Plus, with the help of a certified instructor, you’ll be able to learn about the basic safety procedures and regulations that are necessary for scuba diving.
Can you scuba dive in Puerto Rico in December?
Yes! Puerto Rico is a great place to scuba dive all year round. The water temperature in December ranges from 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit, which is very comfortable for diving. There are many great dive sites around Puerto Rico that offer something for everyone, from beginners to experienced divers. Whether you’re looking for stunning coral reefs, wrecks, or marine life, Puerto Rico has it all.
Can you scuba dive and surf in Isabela, Puerto Rico?
Yes, you can scuba dive and surf in Isabela, Puerto Rico! The water is warm and clear, and there are plenty of reefs and waves to explore.
Isabela is a great place to learn to scuba dive, with several dive shops offering lessons and certification. Once you’re certified, you can head out on your own or with a guide to explore the many reefs and wrecks dotting the coastline. If you’re looking for a challenge, Isabela also has some great surf spots. Just be sure to check the conditions before you go out – the waves can get pretty big!
Where is the coldest place in Puerto Rico?
The coldest place in Puerto Rico is actually a little bit of a trick question. The island of Puerto Rico is located very close to the equator, so the temperature doesn’t really fluctuate too much throughout the year. That being said, there are still some areas that are cooler than others.
One of the coolest places on the island is actually underground. The Cavernas de Camuy caverns are located about an hour outside of San Juan and they boast temperatures that hover around 72 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes them a perfect refuge from the heat and humidity that can often be found on the surface of Puerto Rico.
If you’re looking for somewhere to cool off during your scuba diving trip, Puerto Rico has plenty of options to choose from. Whether you want to explore underground caverns or simply take a dip in one of the many pools and rivers, you’re sure to find a spot that suits your needs.
What are some Puerto Rican stereotypes for foreign travelers?
One of the most common Puerto Rican stereotypes is that all Puerto Ricans are Latino/ Hispanic. This is not true! Puerto Rico is a culturally diverse island, with many different ethnic groups represented.
Another stereotype of Puerto Ricans is that they are all poor and living in poverty. Again, this is not true! Puerto Rico has a high standard of living, and many Puerto Ricans are educated and successful professionals.
So, if you’re thinking of traveling to Puerto Rico, don’t believe everything you hear! There’s much more to this island than meets the eye.
What are the pros and cons of scuba diving in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico is a world-renowned scuba diving destination. Situated in the northeastern Caribbean, Puerto Rico is home to some of the most beautiful and varied dive sites in the world. But what are the pros and cons of scuba diving in Puerto Rico?
On the plus side, Puerto Rico offers warm water temperatures year-round, crystal clear visibility, and an incredible variety of marine life to see. The island also has a large number of dive shops and operators offering everything from beginner courses to live-aboard dives.
However, there are a few downsides to consider before booking your trip. First, Puerto Rico is located in an area prone to hurricanes. This means that dive trips can be cancelled or postponed at short notice due to bad weather. Secondly, many of the best dive sites are located around San Juan, which can get very busy during peak season.
And finally, Puerto Rico is not a cheap destination – expect to pay more for accommodation, food, and diving than you would in other parts of the Caribbean.
What is the average water temperature in Puerto Rico?
The average water temperature in Puerto Rico is about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the temperatures can vary depending on the time of year and the specific location. Generally, the water is warmest from May to October.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a first-time scuba diver or a seasoned pro, Puerto Rico offers some of the best diving in the world. The island’s crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and abundance of shipwrecks make it a scuba paradise.
Puerto Rico has something for everyone, from easy beginner dives to challenging advanced dives. And with over 300 dive sites to choose from, there’s no shortage of places to explore.
