A Diver's Haven - The Best Diving Spots in the Caribbean

Regardless of the type of Caribbean holiday you're planning, it's undeniable that the Caribbean is a spectacular holiday destination. But there is one thing that this region has become renowned for all over the world: the spectacular diving. With its myriad diving sites, with brilliant underwater marine life and vertical drops, and the mind-blowingly beautiful beaches, spending a few days here is enough to make anyone fall in love with the place. From the ideal climate to the perfect water conditions, from postcard-worthy beaches and the remarkable coral reefs, here are some handpicked diving sites for avid divers, whether amateur or experienced.

Réserve Cousteau - More than Beautiful Diving Spots

On a Caribbean holiday, divers should not miss the opportunity to visit the Réserve Cousteau on Pigeon Island. For one thing, Jacques Cousteau himself declared the reserve to be one of the top diving spots in the world, and it is wise to trust the man. For another thing, the surrounding area of the island is rich with stunning coral reefs and beautiful schools of fish that can only be truly enjoyed by diving. But the best thing about Pigeon Island is that there are plenty of shallow areas where amateurs can simply snorkel and still appreciate the beauty under water.

Negril - For the Diversity

Known also as the Seven-Mile Beach, Negril is another popular destination for divers looking for the ultimate Caribbean holiday. Apart from the excellent beaches, Negril is punctuated by superb diving spots of varying difficulty, which appeal to so many different types of divers. From nervous beginners to seasoned professionals, Negril has something to offer everyone. Moreover, because majority of its area is a protected marine park, below the surface is simply teeming with colourful fish, vibrant coral, and other stunning marine life.

Bloody Bay Marine Park - Not For the Faint of Heart

For those who haven't been to the Bloody Bay Marine Park before, don't worry, it didn't get its name from actual bloodshed! On the contrary: it is one of the most stunning, magical, and awesome destinations you can hope to visit on a Caribbean holiday. It offers divers a vast, underwater panorama, which is simply unparalleled anywhere else. The colourful corals, the many types of fishes, sponges, and other types of marine life thrive here in abundance. With over a dozen diving spots within the Bloody Bay Wall, divers have excellent options when it comes to varying levels of difficulty and what they can see underwater. Some of the diving spots worth checking out include the Three- Fathom Wall, which is one of the several vertical drop-off points within Bloody Bay Wall, and Marilyn’s Cut, which is a perfect spot for those who want to see a diverse range of fish.

Helen C. Edwards works for the Essential Hotel Collection. If you’re looking for accommodation for a Caribbean holiday, we offer a handpicked portfolio of privately owned hotels. We have an intimate knowledge of every property and can provide the perfect Grenada hotels to make your island dreams a reality.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.