10Best: Scuba diving sites in the U.S. and Caribbean
If the winter doldrums are getting you down, it may be time to head underwater, says Greg "The Divemaster" Holt, founder and host of ScubaRadio.com, a nationally syndicated show also available online. He says the best dive sites combine ample sea life with compelling attractions on land too, which keep non-divers as happy as those taking the plunge. "What stands out most are the topside things and the people you interact with and the atmosphere." He shares some favorite places with Larry Bleiberg for Paste BN.
Dominica
The Caribbean's self-proclaimed "nature island" delivers some of the world's top eco experiences, both above and below the water. Visitors find rainforests and waterfalls, along with pristine diving sites like Champagne Reef and Scotts Head. "It's mind-boggling, dense with the marine life and the diversity of the critters and the corals," Holt says. dominica.dm
Deep Water Cay, Bahamas
With thousands of islands, coves and inlets, divers could spend a lifetime exploring this Atlantic Ocean country. But Holt particularly likes this private sanctuary for diving, snorkeling, bonefishing and relaxing. "It's a total experience," he says. "The diving there is great but what makes it stand out is all the other stuff. It's a very Jimmy Buffett kind of place." 888-420-6202; deepwatercay.com
Saba, Dutch Caribbean
This tiny mountainous island offers dramatic underwater scenery for divers. "There are pinnacles and steep walls. It's like diving through the Grand Canyon," Holt says. One way to visit is with the small-ship Explorer Ventures fleet, which stops in Saba during live-aboard dive trips between St. Maarten and St. Kitts. sabatourism.com
Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean
There's no need to worry about charter boats and schedules when visiting what's considered the shore diving capital of the world. "The reefs are very close to shore and just drop off. You dive when you want to dive, nothing gets better than that," Holt says. With such easy access and extensive support services, it's also one of the best places to learn to dive. tourismbonaire.com
Panama City Beach, Fla.
Not only is the sea life plentiful off this Gulf Coast beach, so are wreck dives. The area's home to the world's largest artificial reef, created with the purposeful sinking of the USS Oriskany aircraft carrier in 2006. Just last year, the city added a new attraction with the underwater addition of two Voodoo F101 fighter jets. "You can see some pretty dramatic stuff," Holt says. visitpanamacitybeach.com
Cayman Islands
Divers find an embarrassment of riches at this Western Caribbean nation. Not only is the diving superb, it also offers a range of activities from snorkeling to advanced tech-diving to just hanging out on the beach. The Caymans provide "very good conditions for the visibility and the classic Caribbean colors with white sand and deep blue water. You can get those amazing underwater pictures you see on TV," Holt says. 212-889-9009; caymanislands.ky
Cozumel. Mexico
Not far from Cancun, this Mexican island has its own vibe and superb underwater conditions, earning it the title of drift diving capital of the world, Holt says. "Typically you'll jump in and float along with the current and see what passes you by. It's the easiest type of diving you can do. You don't even have to kick if you don't want to." Snorkelers can find plenty to see as well. cozumel.travel
Grenada
The Spice Island offers great food above water and incredible diving below, Holt says. He particularly likes the island's underwater sculpture park. "It's encrusted with coral and really neat. You can actual snorkel that," he says. Another favorite site: the Bianca C, a huge shipwreck often called the Titanic of the Caribbean. "I've seen spotted eagle rays there. It's a cool dive." 561-948-6925; grenadagrenadines.com
Catalina Island, Calif.
For more than 50 years, divers have ventured to this offshore Pacific getaway to explore the Underwater Dive Park. "It's a classic California dive. You can walk right off the steps and get into the water so it's easily accessible," Holt says. While those more familiar with Caribbean waters will be surprised by the cooler temperatures, he says it's worth it. "You've got garibaldi fish, kelp and sea lions if you're lucky." 310-510-1520; catalinachamber.com
Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, Texas
This offshore reef, located about 100 miles south of Sabine Pass, Texas, is home to a huge variety of sea life. Typically visitors come for at least an overnight stay, taking time to explore the habitats. "It's known for color, with all different types of coral, and for being unspoiled because you've got to commit to going out there," Holt says. flowergarden.noaa.gov