Explore Limón
Limón is a province located on the east coast of Costa Rica on the coast of the Caribbean Sea. This less explored part of the coast allows divers to escape the crowds while exploring flourishing coral reefs and so much more. Most of this province is protected by national parks, of which have multiple dive sites to explore, so the underwater environment is in pristine condition, so add that to also having ideal diving conditions of warm, clear waters and great visibility and divers get a paradise diving destination. There are only a handful of dive centres and dive resorts here, but enough opportunity to explore this area.
The climate here is pleasant throughout the year which results in warm water temperatures and good visibility. Water temperatures only vary between 25°C in the rainy season which runs from October to January, and up to 29°C in the dry season. Due to the increase in nutrients in the water in the rainy season, this attracts larger pelagic species. Some of the highlights here include shipwrecks, long stretches of flourishing reefs and an abundance of larger marine species.
Places to Explore
Cahuita
This small town of Cahuita is located on the east coast of Costa Rica, in Limon Province, bordering the Caribbean Sea. This is a relaxing, tropical destination for travellers and divers, there are three beaches with one of the three having the iconic, black, volcanic sand. This area houses the Cahuita National Park which was created to protect the abundant rainforests and coral gardens. This is an ideal, relaxing diving destination to admire the vibrant underwater world while enjoying the pleasant diving conditions in the warm, turquoise waters.
Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo is a small town on the south east coast of Costa Rica, bordering the Caribbean Sea, and in the south of the Limon province. It’s known for its spectacular beaches and for the perfect surfing conditions, but it’s also a great location to be a divers base to explore some of the best diving in the area. The largest coral reef in Costa Rica lies just offshore from Puerto Viejo and stretches all the way down to the coast of Panama. An absolutely flourishing reef with over 25 dive sites and it’s also part of Cahuita National Park which, in itself, has even more to offer.
Top Limón Dive Sites
1. Isla Uvita
At Isla Uvita, divers can explore the famous shipwreck of the Fenix, a cargo ship that has developed its own underwater ecosystem. This site offers scuba diving opportunities and is suitable for advanced divers. The shipwreck is a special feature, with fascinating marine life including various fish species.
2. Cahuita National Park
Cahuita is a marine park with abundant marine species, perfect for scuba diving. It hosts around 40 coral species, 120 fish species, and numerous crustaceans. Safe for easy diving, Cahuita features beautiful reef formations and larger species like Eagle Rays and Sea Turtles.
3. Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo offers over 25 dive sites along its coral reef, ideal for both scuba diving and freediving. The area is known for stunning coral formations enhanced by past earthquakes. Adventure level varies from easy to advanced, with seahorses being a delightful highlight.
4. Punta Uva
Punta Uva features a long stretch of coral reef, perfect for both scuba and freediving. This site provides easy to advanced diving experiences, showcasing unique coral structures and a rich marine life including seahorses. The area is ecologically important due to its biodiversity.
5. Playa Manzanillo
Playa Manzanillo is known for its vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life, suitable for both scuba diving and freediving. The site offers easy diving experiences and is part of a protected area known for its ecological importance, featuring colorful fish and occasional sea turtles.