There’s something otherworldly about being under the sea. Or rather, in the sea. Though you’re still on the same planet, it sure doesn’t feel like it.
Whatever may have looked busy, turbulent, or choppy on the surface, turns into a tranquil oasis beneath.
Scuba diving is a metaphor for life really – let all the stress go, detach from our ego-driven mentalities, and then you’ll gently sink beneath the turbulent facade into a peaceful existence.
Feeling in the mood for a little swim with the fish? Ready to feed some sharks? Interested in checking out some richly colorful coral reefs?
Let’s take a little trip down to a small slice of paradise called Curaçao.
Curaçao, the “C” of the “ABC” islands that make up the Netherlands Antilles, is home to some spectacular snorkeling and scuba diving.
Why is that? One of the same reasons why Curaçao is a favorite Caribbean jaunt in general – the island lies below the hurricane belt.
No hurricanes = healthy coral reefs. Seriously, Curaçao is home to some of the healthiest coral reefs on the entire planet. Optimal temperatures, nutrient rich water, and you know – marine bio stuff.
Curaçao is a hot destination for well-seasoned divers, but don’t let that intimidate you.
This friendly island is also one of the best places to learn how to scuba dive, or even go on an expert-led scuba experience, which requires no previous certifications or experience.
Ocean Encounters is the largest dive operator on the island, with multiple dive shops located around the island, including the larger hotels such as Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort. Not only does Ocean Encounters provide PADI certification courses, scuba adventures, and all sorts of ocean outings, but they also have their very own natural lagoon at the Sea Aquarium.
For the inexperienced, the lagoon offers an incredible opportunity to learn the fundamentals of snorkeling and scuba diving. Filled with large tarpon, manta rays, barracuda, and dozens of other fish varieties, you’ll soon forget you aren’t out in the open sea.
Go on a Snorkel Encounter or a Scuba Encounter, feed some whale sharks, meet Herbie – the enormous ugly grouper. No matter the encounter you choose, it’ll be an experience you won’t soon forget!
For the seasoned divers, or aspiring seasoned divers, here are a few of the famous dives around Curaçao:
Klein Curaçao – Meaning “little Curaçao,” about two hours away via a boat from Curaçao. This is an extraordinary site, where it’s said everything underwater is bigger, and there’s much more.Unspoiled, pristine, and plain fun!
Beacon Point – Located at the western tip of Caracas Bay, this site features the largest pillar coral formation in the Caribbean. Some highlights are: amazing drop-offs, large jacks, grouper, and barracuda.
Lost Anchor – A locals favorite, full of color and lush sea walls covered in gorgonians and sea fans. Hidden behind dense coral growth lies an anchor chain that’s seemingly endless. The dive culminates in a shallow section where seahorses enjoy hanging out.
Barracuda Point – Another favorite dive site, this time featuring dense coral formations, gorgonians, and boulder corals. Turtle spotting is a frequent occurrence, and you may get a glimpse of jacks and barracudas.
Those are just a few examples, but there are enough beautiful dive spots to keep avid divers busy for weeks if not months! To learn about all of the popular spots, visit here.
In between diving and snorkeling jaunts, some relaxation will be in order. Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort is peacefully secluded on the southwestern tip of the island on the gorgeous Santa Barbara Plantation. Private bays, a calm beach, and plenty of poolside relaxation await. Not to mention Ocean Encounters has a dive shop on the property, where you can sign up for any of their excursions or certifications. Get ready for one of the most exciting vacations of your life! Curaçao is truly a gem and we can’t wait to hear about your diving and snorkeling experiences!
