This Scuba Diving Spot Known as ‘the World’s Aquarium’ Was Just Named the Most Underrated in the World

Whether you’re new to scuba diving or you’ve completed more than 100 dives, exploring beneath the surface is always a new adventure. Typically, a successful scuba trip needs good visibility for spotting wildlife and coral. And while the actual diving is understandably a major part of the trip, the vibe on land can also play a role. (Pro tip: the best way to end a successful day of diving is debriefing with your dive buddies with a local beer in hand!)

The scuba diving experts at DiveIn.com analyzed several variables — including the price of accommodations, restaurants, and things to do on land — to identify the most underrated destinations. At the very top came the Gulf of California, also known as the Sea of Cortez.

“The destination doesn’t see much Google interest online, but it has some of the best amenities and value for money,” wrote the team. “The average cost per night at the area’s 10 cheapest hotels is just $137.60, so a five-night stay could cost as little as $688.”

One popular entry point to diving in the Gulf of California is Mexico’s Baja California. Here, the study notes, there are around 10,000 restaurants to eat at and some 300 scuba-related activities to enjoy.

The area is home to diverse ecosystems with sea creatures like sword-nosed marlins, groupers, and even sea turtles. In fact, Jacques Cousteau reportedly referred to the Sea of Cortez as “the world’s aquarium.”

A good time to visit these waters is between April and June when divers can see mobula rays. During this time of year, tens of thousands of rays make their way to the Sea of Cortez. (I recommend Dive Ninja Expeditions, one of the first accredited PADI Eco Centers in the world, which offers two diving experiences.)

Other destinations rounding out the top five on the list of underrated scuba diving destinations include Dominica in the Caribbean; Raja Ampat, Indonesia; Key Largo in the Florida Keys; and Viti Levu, Fiji. No matter where you go, escaping the bustling noise on land and diving underneath the surface to explore uncharted territory is a guaranteed adrenaline rush.