A Taste Of Paradise – Top Places To Dive With Turtles In The Caribbean

Sea turtles are some of the most magnificent sea creatures. Unfortunately, they are also some of the most endangered ones. If you love animals and diving, then swimming with these gorgeous animals would probably be a dream come true for you. Luckily, as endangered as they are, there are still places where you can see them and swim with them. One of those places is the Caribbean, and if you ever find yourself there, here’s where you can find sea turtles.

Aruba

Aruba is most popular with those who enjoy kitesurfing and windsurfing, but it’s just as great for going underwater as well. One of its most famous dive sites is Antilla, a German shipwreck. It is one of the largest wrecks you can visit in the Caribbean. This means that it’s also teeming with life, as you can find lobsters, fish, and, of course, turtles. Even if you’re a beginner, you will still feel comfortable diving here.

Jamaica

If you ever find yourself in Jamaica, consider visiting The GoldenEye Hotel and Resort. If you stay there for more than five nights in September, you are guaranteed to see sea turtles hatch on Golden Sea Beach. Between May and September, more than 10 000 turtles hatch on that beach. Moreover, there are many excursions by local sea-turtle exports, so don’t miss out on this natural wonder.

Martinique

There is more than one diving area on this destination, but no matter which one you choose, you are bound to have fun and see some gorgeous turtles. The most famous dive site is Diamond Rock, and you can also find many amazing underwater caverns. Also, it’s advisable to know at least some French, as you might find it a bit more difficult to get by with only English.

Grand Cayman

The Cayman Islands are perfect for a family vacation. From swimming with stingrays to exploring shipwrecks, there are just so many opportunities for both kids and adults. What’s also important, though, is that there are plenty of sea turtles. Opting for one of the many Grand Cayman diving trips will give you an opportunity to see and appreciate its amazing marine life.

Bonaire

One of the best destinations for scuba-diving, Bonaire has more than 60 dive sites. They are all marked by yellow-painted stones, and they are protected. Also, at Salt Pier, if there aren’t too many boats, you can see green sea turtles. One thing is for sure – you won’t regret diving in Bonaire, as there are so many options and dive sites, it would be a shame not to dive.

Curacao

Curacao is located between Aruba and Bonaire, and it’s a small melting pot with many different nationalities. The diversity can be seen underwater as well; you can find many seahorses, shrimps, stingrays, and turtles. Moreover, most of the dive sites are not too deep, which means that you can enjoy them even if you’re not a professional diver.

Barbados

Barbados is known as the birthplace of Rihanna, but it’s also known for having many great dive sites. On the islands southwest coast, you can find shallow wrecks, which are all accessible, and all home to many turtles. You can also visit the west coast and swim with leatherback turtles. They are usually lured by fish and bread scraps, and they are truly a sight to see.

Guadeloupe

This butterfly-shaped island is perfect for all divers, regardless of your diving skill. The inhabitants speak mostly French, but even if you don’t, you won’t have trouble expressing your desire to swim and dive. A good starting point is the Cousteau Reserve. However, if you are a bit more experienced, consider Sec Pate. It is a famous underwater mountain where you can find corals, fish, and sea turtles.

Antigua

If you’re an artistic soul that loves taking photographs, you should visit Antigua. Here, there is very little current, and the visibility is great, which means that your photos would be just as beautiful. One of the most popular spots for diving is Cades Reef, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s teeming with marine life, from barracudas to turtles.

Dominica

This volcanic island is one of the Caribbean’s less popular diving gems but just as beautiful as any other.  If you decide to snorkel here, you should definitely do it at the Champagne Reef. What’s unique about it is that you can swim through numerous bubble streams that are created by volcanic vents. It is a great destination for seeing turtles, but it’s also a good choice for whale watching.

If you love animals and dream of swimming with sea turtles, you should definitely plan your next vacation to the Caribbean. Next to the beautiful nature, plenty of marine life, and so many activities, it would be a vacation you’d remember for a long time.v