The Red Sea

Named after the reddish coloured algae found in its waters, The Red Sea, thanks to its combination of year-round warm water and low tide action, is considered one of the best diving sites in the world. There are plenty of resorts on the Red Sea, the most popular being Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt, which, along with diving, also boasts a wide range of water sports, nightlife and entertainment.

The waters and reefs are home to a massive variety of marine life and species, some of which is endemic to these waters, and there a loads of spectacular dive sites including a number of ship wrecks.


Hawaii



Famous for its tropical climate and beautiful beaches, Hawaii boasts some incredible places to dive where 25% of all marine life is endemic to the islands. Thanks to its popular tourist and resort status there are plenty of places to learn the basics, complete official PADI courses and explore on your own.

There are 132 Hawaiian islands in total, with the 8 main islands offering regular dive spots and organised dives, however if you want to explore any of the smaller islands on your own then boat charters are available.


Belize


Belize is one of the best spots in the Caribbean to dive and is home to the second longest barrier reef in the world,
running the entire length of the country’s coast. With three main open ocean coral atolls – including the famous Blue Hole dive site (a reef shaped in a circular outline) - hundreds of species of fish and crystal clear warm waters, Belize is a particularly popular diving location.

There are many tour operators who run regular trips out to the most popular sites, however if you want to avoid the masses then staying on a live-aboard dive boat could be your best option.


Thailand


A country famous for its beautiful beaches and glittering waters, Thailand offers both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand as some beautiful diving locations.Whether you’re learning the ropes, a seasoned pro, backpacker or millionaire, there’s something to suit everyone in Thailand.

There are hundreds of reefs, corals and species to marvel at, as well as a number of ship wreck dives. All are accessible either from resorts, live-aboard boats or on excursions with tour guides. If you’re not going on a pre-booked diving holiday then day trips can be booked locally.


Great Barrier Reef, Australia



This is the most famous, popular and spectacular ecosystem in the world and therefore, without a doubt, the number one place to dive. With thousands of endemic species, corals and marine life coupled with beautiful weather and idyllic paradise islands, there’s plenty of opportunity to see and explore the reef. You can follow the crowd with organised trips to the most iconic sites of the reef or alternatively explore yourself by boat, snorkeling  walking, swimming and various water sports.

The reef is accessible from the mainland, however many opt to stay at one of the many island resorts which boast the ultimate great barrier reef accommodation, living and private reef dive sites.

Wherever you decide to go, be sure to treat the reefs and marine life with care. Do not take anything from dive sites or the reefs as they are protected and doing so will result in a hefty fine or criminal charges.


Red Sea Image courtesy of greenprophet.com
Hawaii Image courtesy of Wikipedia.org
Belize Image courtesy of ambergriscaye.com
Great Barrier Reef Image courtesy of tourist-destinations.com