Explore Playas del Coco

Located on the west coast of Costa Rica, on the Pacific Ocean, in the Guanacaste Province, is the buzzing beach community Playas del Coco, which is one of the fastest growing holiday destinations in Costa Rica with some of the most exciting diving in the area. This is not the destination to visit if colourful coral reefs are what divers are looking for, but instead, this area has thrilling topography made up of caves, caverns and unique volcanic rock formations and the highlight being the high abundance of pelagic species which visit this area. Despite there being less coral and less ideal visibility, there are still a very high number of fish here to still make every dive exciting.

Upcoming Events

    • Open Water Diver

    Open Water Diver

    Learn Scuba Diving in Costa Rica ! Our experienced team looks forward to show you the beauty of Costa Rica below the surface. We have unspoiled world class dive sites for beginner divers. Enjoy this 3-4 day course in private with our multilingual instructors. We include equipment and dive computer rental with the Open Water Course. This course consists of online dive theory, confined water training (pool) and four open water training dives. This certification grants you the SSI Open Water Diver level – globally recognized and valid for life. You will be certified to dive to depths of up to 18 meters / 60 feet. With a maximum of 4 students per Instructor in our groups, you can be certain you will receive personal attention and training, enjoying every moment of your journey to becoming an SSI Open Water Diver ! This 3 or 4 day course consists of online dive theory, confined water training (pool) and four open water training dives. This certification grants you the SSI Open Water Diver level – globally recognized and valid for life. You will be certified to dive to depths of up to 18 meters / 60 feet. With a maximum of 4 students per Instructor in our groups, you can be certain you will receive personal attention and training, enjoying every moment of your journey to becoming an SSI Open Water Diver !

    Rich Coast Diving, Playas del Coco, 5019, Playas del Coco, CRI
    May 13, 2026 +1682 More
    $560.00
    Sea Turtle Ecology

    Sea Turtle Ecology

    Sea turtles are some of the most wonderful animals to dive with. You will want to dive with them even more after completing the SSI Sea Turtle Ecology Specialty program! This specialty program provides the skills and concepts you need to recognize and identify common sea turtle species. It teaches you about the fascinating history of sea turtles, their role in marine ecosystems and threats to their survival. Upon completion, you will earn the SSI Sea Turtle Ecology Specialty certification.

    Rich Coast Diving, Playas del Coco, 5019, Playas del Coco, CRI
    May 13, 2026 +2162 More
    $100.05
    €85.00
    Marine Mammal Ecology

    Marine Mammal Ecology

    Do you have a passion to save the ocean and the marine animals that call it their home? Does the thought of diving with whales fascinate you? Do you want to learn more about the ecology, biology, and conservation of marine mammals? The SSI Marine Mammal Ecology program introduces you to the wonders of these amazing creatures. Dive into the world of whales, dolphins, and seals to explore this amazingly diverse group of marine animals. In this program, you will learn what makes marine mammals distinct from land mammals, discover where they live, explore their physiology, and how to identify various species. You will also learn about marine mammal conservation - a great way to help save the ocean. What are you waiting for? Start your SSI Marine Mammal Ecology training online today!

    Rich Coast Diving, Playas del Coco, 5019, Playas del Coco, CRI
    May 13, 2026 +1684 More
    $85.00
    React Right - Course Combination (FA, CPR, AED, O2)

    React Right - Course Combination (FA, CPR, AED, O2)

    React Right is SSI’s emergency first response course and provides you with the training and knowledge you need to act as a first responder in a medical emergency. In this flexible dive program, you can choose which subjects you want to learn about, including primary assessment, first aid, CPR and primary stabilization techniques. You can also learn about oxygen administration in diving emergencies and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) basics. Using a combination of academic sessions and practical training scenarios, this program will give you the tools and confidence you need for emergency response. By the time you are certified, you will be able to act as an emergency first responder, provide first aid and CPR, administer oxygen and provide AED support in a medical emergency. Earn your SSI React Right specialty certification. Get started today and contact us at info@richcoastdiving.com.

    Rich Coast Diving, Playas del Coco, 5019, Playas del Coco, CRI
    May 13, 2026 +1684 More
    $150.00
    Shark Ecology

    Shark Ecology

    In the SSI Shark Ecology program, you will learn how to interpret shark behaviours, why they are often misunderstood and how dive with sharks. This is a perfect course for shark fans and for divers who are nervous about sharks but want to overcome their fear. Upon completion of this program, you will earn your SSI Shark Ecology Specialty certification and no doubt become an avid shark diver. Start today!

    Rich Coast Diving, Playas del Coco, 5019, Playas del Coco, CRI
    May 13, 2026 +1684 More
    $85.00
    Manta & Ray Ecology

    Manta & Ray Ecology

    Join the SSI Manta and Ray Ecology specialty program and you will learn how to dive with rays and recognize different ray species. You will be taught how rays contribute to healthy ocean ecosystems and why these precious animals need our protection. Upon completion, you will earn your SSI Manta & Ray Ecology Specialty certification.

    Rich Coast Diving, Playas del Coco, 5019, Playas del Coco, CRI
    May 18, 2026 +239 More
    $85.00
    Nudibranch Ecology

    Nudibranch Ecology

    Welcome to the Nudibranch Ecology course, where you’ll explore the world of sea slugs in seven detailed sessions. Begin with their classification and habitats, then learn about their movement, sensory, and respiratory systems. Discover their complex reproductive strategies, relationships with other marine organisms, feeding habits, and crucial role in ecosystems. Explore their defense mechanisms and interactions with humans, emphasizing their research and conservation significance. This course will deepen your understanding of these extraordinary creatures, perfect for marine biology enthusiasts, students, or the curious. Join us and uncover the secrets of nudibranchs.

    Rich Coast Diving, Playas del Coco, 5019, Playas del Coco, CRI
    May 13, 2026 +222 More
    $85.00
    Basic Diver / Try Scuba Diving

    Basic Diver / Try Scuba Diving

    In the SSI Basic Diver program, you will learn the skills and knowledge you need to try diving up to 12 meters deep with an SSI Professional. It is a great way to explore the underwater world more fully as you try diving. The entire Basic Diver program can be credited towards the Scuba Diver or Open Water Dive programs within 6 months, so you can take the next step in your dive adventure.

    Rich Coast Diving, Playas del Coco, 5019, Playas del Coco, CRI
    May 13, 2026 +1683 More
    $175.00
    Scuba Diver

    Scuba Diver

    Using online learning, confined and open water dives, the SSI Scuba Diver program is a perfect foundation to become a confident and safe diver. You will learn all you need to scuba dive in open water up to 12 meters deep with an SSI Professional. In this program, you will complete almost half of the Open Water Diver course training and can upgrade your certification easily. You just need to complete the remaining academic and confined water sessions, plus two open water training dives.

    Rich Coast Diving, Playas del Coco, 5019, Playas del Coco, CRI
    May 13, 2026 +1684 More
    $365.00
    Fish Identification

    Fish Identification

    The world’s oceans are home to thousands of fish species, and you will encounter plenty of these fascinating creatures on your dives! In this course, you will be taught all the skills and concepts you need to identify common families of Caribbean, Indo-Pacific and Red Sea reef fish. Upon completion, you will earn your SSI Fish Identification specialty certification.

    Rich Coast Diving, Playas del Coco, 5019, Playas del Coco, CRI
    May 18, 2026 +307 More
    $85.00
    Find Courses & Events

    Dive Activity

    Diving in Playas del Coco

    With over 20 dive sites near the coast of Playas del Coco, all around a 10-15 minute boat ride away, there are a lot of different types of diving to be done. There is a cave to explore with sleeping sharks inside at Virador dive site, a small shipwreck and wall formations at Tortuga, coral pinnacles with White Tip Reef Sharks zig zagging through them at Shark Point and many more unique volcanic formations to explore. The diving is all done from speedboats or by the odd liveaboard which visits here. The dive centres and dive resorts here also offer dive courses. 

    Top Wildlife Sightings in Playas del Coco

    This may not be the most colourful area in terms of coral, but the nutrient-rich waters here attract many different species. Meros has a large pinnacle which is scattered with colourful Nudibranchs and has large Groupers gliding past. Tiburones and Tortuga are known for their resident White Tip Reef Sharks, which are always exciting to spot. Sorpresa dive site has some of the largest Moray Eels (as big as a human leg), and Monkey Head is the place to go to spot large schools of Eagle Rays and Stingrays. The lack of coral does not affect the number of fish here and so there are schools of fish all over this area.

    Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 200

    Alamy-WaterFrame
    Moray Eel

    Moray Eel
    100 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    8
    A
    3
    M
    5
    J
    16
    J
    26
    A
    15
    S
    1
    O
    6
    N
    14
    D
    6

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 25

    iStock/Juliosanjuan
    Eagle Ray

    Eagle Ray
    62 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    2
    M
    7
    A
    2
    M
    4
    J
    9
    J
    16
    A
    11
    S
    1
    O
    2
    N
    3
    D
    5

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 300

    Alamy/Reinhard Dirscherl
    Octopus

    Octopus
    52 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    1
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    6
    J
    9
    J
    17
    A
    12
    S
    0
    O
    1
    N
    6
    D
    0
    Shutterstock-Shane Myers Photography
    Green Turtle

    Green Turtle
    15 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    2
    J
    1
    J
    1
    A
    0
    S
    0
    O
    2
    N
    7
    D
    2

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 600

    iStock/ultramarinfoto
    Wrasse

    Wrasse
    7 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    0
    J
    4
    A
    1
    S
    0
    O
    1
    N
    0
    D
    1
    iStock-June Jacobsen
    Whitetip Reef Shark

    Whitetip Reef Shark
    134 Sightings
    J
    9
    F
    0
    M
    16
    A
    4
    M
    13
    J
    13
    J
    17
    A
    22
    S
    4
    O
    9
    N
    10
    D
    17

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 80

    iStock/Extreme-Photographer
    Stingrays

    Stingrays
    101 Sightings
    J
    3
    F
    6
    M
    12
    A
    5
    M
    6
    J
    9
    J
    18
    A
    12
    S
    5
    O
    6
    N
    12
    D
    7

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 130

    AdobeStock-JirinaVFR
    Pufferfish

    Pufferfish
    59 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    2
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    7
    J
    12
    A
    10
    S
    1
    O
    6
    N
    15
    D
    6

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 90

    Shutterstock-Rich Carey
    Angelfish

    Angelfish
    44 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    7
    A
    0
    M
    4
    J
    4
    J
    17
    A
    2
    S
    0
    O
    6
    N
    3
    D
    1

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 100

    iStock-burnsboxco
    Parrotfish

    Parrotfish
    37 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    2
    J
    5
    J
    14
    A
    5
    S
    0
    O
    3
    N
    8
    D
    0
    Show More

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 20

    iStock-stephankerkhofs
    Porcupinefish

    Porcupinefish
    37 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    2
    M
    4
    A
    0
    M
    3
    J
    1
    J
    5
    A
    8
    S
    1
    O
    4
    N
    8
    D
    1

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 3

    Shutterstock_Leo Lorenzo
    Trumpetfish

    Trumpetfish
    28 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    5
    J
    8
    A
    4
    S
    1
    O
    5
    N
    5
    D
    0

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 130

    Shutterstock_Krzysztof Odziomek
    Butterfly Fish

    Butterfly Fish
    27 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    5
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    0
    J
    12
    A
    6
    S
    1
    O
    2
    N
    0
    D
    1

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 90

    Shutterstock-Levent Konuk
    Goatfish

    Goatfish
    23 Sightings
    J
    1
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    5
    J
    7
    A
    1
    S
    1
    O
    5
    N
    3
    D
    0
    Alamy-WaterFrame
    Common Seahorse

    Common Seahorse
    19 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    2
    M
    4
    A
    0
    M
    2
    J
    4
    J
    5
    A
    0
    S
    2
    O
    0
    N
    0
    D
    0

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 350

    Alamy-Andre Seal
    Damselfish

    Damselfish
    15 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    3
    J
    6
    A
    2
    S
    1
    O
    3
    N
    0
    D
    0

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 3

    Shutterstock-Miroslav Halama
    Cornetfish

    Cornetfish
    15 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    3
    J
    6
    A
    2
    S
    0
    O
    3
    N
    1
    D
    0

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 250

    iStock-Miguel-Angelo-Silva.
    Scorpionfish

    Scorpionfish
    13 Sightings
    J
    1
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    5
    J
    2
    J
    1
    A
    1
    S
    0
    O
    1
    N
    2
    D
    0

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 3000

    SSI-Peter-Schinck
    Nudibranch

    Nudibranch
    13 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    2
    M
    1
    J
    9
    J
    0
    A
    1
    S
    0
    O
    0
    N
    0
    D
    0

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 25

    AdobeStock_Vladimir Wrangel
    Boxfish

    Boxfish
    12 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    0
    J
    1
    A
    4
    S
    0
    O
    1
    N
    6
    D
    0

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 60

    iStock-Global_Pics
    Spiny Lobster

    Spiny Lobster
    11 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    3
    J
    0
    A
    0
    S
    0
    O
    0
    N
    8
    D
    0

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 85

    iStock-mirecca
    Surgeonfish

    Surgeonfish
    10 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    2
    M
    2
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    3
    J
    1
    A
    1
    S
    0
    O
    1
    N
    0
    D
    0

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 110

    iStock-Rainer von Brandis
    Snapper

    Snapper
    9 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    3
    J
    2
    A
    1
    S
    0
    O
    2
    N
    0
    D
    1

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 60

    iStock-Global_Pics
    Soldierfish

    Soldierfish
    9 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    0
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    0
    J
    5
    A
    1
    S
    1
    O
    1
    N
    0
    D
    1

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 3400

    Shutterstock-Shane Gross
    Shrimp

    Shrimp
    8 Sightings
    J
    0
    F
    2
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    0
    J
    5
    A
    1
    S
    0
    O
    0
    N
    0
    D
    0

    The best Months to Dive in Playas del Coco

    The climate here is split into the rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season runs from May to November, which involves showers in the afternoons and windier conditions. October has the most extreme weather, so it is advised not to visit then. The benefit of the rainy season is an increase in nutrients in the water, which attracts larger species, including the thrilling bull sharks. The dry season, from December to April, means calmer waters, better visibility—reaching up to 30 meters/98 feet—and smaller marine species to admire.

    Dive Centers

    Rich Coast Diving

    Rich Coast Diving

    Playas del Coco, 5019 Playas del Coco, Costa Rica

    Dive Sites

    Mares
    Coco Bay <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.8)</span>

    Coco Bay (★4.8)

    The sandy bottom of the bay in Coco is great for training in the calm conditions. This is a great place to practice rescue skills from the boat, or practice navigation.
    Mares, Predrag Vuckovic
    Corridas <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.4)</span>

    Corridas (★4.4)

    Corridas is at the corner of Coco Bay. The site consists of 2 rocks/low pinnacles in a sandy area. The 2 rocks are very close and can both be done easily in 1 dive.
    Aqualung
    Memories wreck <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.2)</span>

    Memories wreck (★4.2)

    Memories is a fishing vessel that sunk in Coco Bay. The boat is too small to penetrate (about 25m long), but is big enough to enjoy the huge amount of juvenile fish seeking cover inside of the wreck. Look inside the cabin and see the captain’s chair, admire the nudibranch or scorpionfish, or just enjoy the view.
    Scubapro
    Chiliguaro <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★3.0)</span>

    Chiliguaro (★3.0)

    Chiliguaro is a small dive site of the peninsula between Playas del Coco en Playa Hermosa. The rocky formation are a perfect hiding spot for macro creatures, octopus and turtles.
    Mares
    Tortuga Equador <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.6)</span>

    Tortuga Equador (★4.6)

    5 minute boat trip from Coco Bay. A dive site suitable for divers from all levels. For beginners to enjoy the rich shallow areas, and more experienced divers to visit Rusty II, a small wreck which is located a bit deeper at 22m/70ft.