Dive the Legendary Catalinas Islands

Costa Rica



Discover an underwater world of volcanic formations, tropical fish, rays, turtles, and unforgettable encounters. Every dive offers a unique adventure in the Pacific Ocean. Every dive is different !

Scuba Diving at Catalinas Islands, Costa Rica

This guided diving experience at Costa Rica’s Catalinas Islands suits certified divers seeking varied marine wildlife and volcanic underwater landscapes.

Highlights

  • Swiss owner-led dives for a personalized experience
  • Thousands of dives at Catalinas Islands guide every trip
  • Small groups led by experienced SSI professionals familiar with all dive sites
  • Nearly a decade of exploration by Swiss owners
  • Modern, meticulously maintained equipment ensuring comfort and safety

Description

Dive the Catalinas Islands, known for rich marine biodiversity and volcanic formations attracting diverse marine life year-round. Each dive varies with the season and ocean conditions, potentially revealing white-tip reef sharks, spotted eagle rays, stingrays, turtles, moray eels, octopus, nudibranchs, tropical fish schools, jacks, snappers, and occasionally giant manta rays.

Your adventure begins at the family-run dive center in Playa Potrero, where you meet your guide before a boat trip to handpicked dive sites. Dive sites are selected daily based on currents, visibility, and recent marine activity to maximize your experience.

The Catalinas deliver unique encounters on every dive, from large fish schools to graceful rays or rare manta rays. We prioritize safety, small groups, and tailored dives to suit your experience level, ensuring no rush and maximum enjoyment.

Whether you are new to Costa Rica or an experienced diver, the Catalinas Islands provide memorable underwater journeys for all certified divers.

Includes

  • Guidance by experienced SSI Instructor or SSI Divemaster
  • Two guided dives for certified divers
  • Round-trip boat transportation to dive sites
  • Complete scuba gear: BCD, regulator, wetsuit, mask, fins, and tanks
  • Professional dive briefing before each dive
  • Surface interval with refreshments
  • Drinking water and soft drinks (Coca-Cola, Sprite, or similar)
  • Fresh seasonal fruit, cake, and cookies
  • Small group sizes for personalized attention
  • Onboard safety equipment including oxygen and first aid kit

Excludes

  • Dive computer (available to rent: USD 10 + tax)
  • Underwater photos and videos (extra charge applies)
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (except between Las Catalinas to Reserve Conchal with 'W' and Westin Resort, including Potrero, Flamingo, and Brasilito)
  • Dive insurance
  • Lunch

Important Information

  • This activity is for certified divers only. Bring your certification card, swimsuit, sunscreen, and any personal items required.
  • ChrisDiving is a family-owned Swiss dive center operating in Costa Rica for over 9 years, with extensive knowledge of Catalinas dive sites, seasonal conditions, and marine life.
  • Dives are often guided by the owners: Christian (SSI Instructor Trainer, 16+ years diving and 7,000+ dives logged) and his son Nealan (SSI Instructor, over 2,000 dives).
  • Dive sites are selected daily considering ocean conditions and diver experience. Marine life sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To prepare, bring your certification card, swimwear, sunscreen, and camera if desired. The best diving conditions are typically during the dry season; confirm recommended dates when booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

The diving experience offers guided scuba dives focused on varied marine wildlife and volcanic underwater landscapes suited for certified divers.
Diving tours are led by Swiss owner-operators and experienced SSI professionals familiar with all local dive sites.
The Catalinas Islands are located off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, a popular destination for scuba diving.
The dive guides have nearly a decade of exploration at Catalinas Islands and thousands of dives logged in the area.
Yes, modern and meticulously maintained scuba equipment is provided to ensure comfort and safety during dives.
No, the dives at Catalinas Islands are designed for certified divers with prior scuba experience.
Divers can expect to encounter a rich variety of marine wildlife including tropical fish, manta rays, and volcanic underwater formations.
Dive groups are kept small to provide a personalized and safe experience guided by SSI professionals.
You should check the website for current hours and availability as they may vary seasonally.
Yes, safety is a priority with professional guides and well-maintained equipment for all scuba dives in Costa Rica.

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 26.2M page views a month across the network
  • 180+ destination guides worldwide
  • 2006 online since

We are part of the My Guide Network

My Guide Costa Rica is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides. We are now in 180+ Destinations and Growing.

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.