Explore 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 Puerto Viejo Dive Sites
1. Cahuita National Park Reef
This marine reserve near Puerto Viejo boasts over 40 coral species and 120 types of fish. Scuba divers can spot eagle rays, reef sharks, and sea turtles. With wrecks, sea fans, and brain corals, it's best suited for easy to intermediate dives in a protected zone.
2. Puerto Viejo Reef
Stretching over 2,700 acres, this vibrant reef is ideal for both scuba and freediving. The abundance of soft corals and massive schools of fish create a kaleidoscopic underwater experience. Suitable for all levels, it’s one of the Caribbean coast’s top dive spots.
3. Manzanillo Reef
Located south of Puerto Viejo, this site features shallow coral gardens perfect for beginner scuba divers and freedivers. Expect to see lobsters, moray eels, and colorful reef fish. The calm conditions and warm water make it a relaxed, scenic dive.
4. Punta Uva Caves
This site offers adventurous scuba divers a chance to explore shallow underwater caves and rock formations. It’s moderately challenging and is home to crustaceans, sponges, and small reef fish. Freediving is also possible here with caution.
5. Playa Negra Drop-off
Just north of Puerto Viejo, this site features a natural drop-off popular with more experienced scuba divers. Expect sightings of barracuda, rays, and occasional nurse sharks. The contrast between black sand and clear Caribbean water adds a unique visual dimension.