Archives: Destinations

Boasting some of the best diving hot spots in the world, not only in terms of pristine reefs, but in the abundance of diving options, the Solomon Islands offer outstanding beauty that’s yet to be discovered by the masses, promising an underwater world of limitless discovery.

From wrecks, caverns, wide-angle reefs, sea fans, soft corals and macro diving, the experiences you’ll encounter here are made even more magical owing to the miraculous biodiversity that thrives beneath you. For the curious history fans, the Solomon Islands are home to some truly magnificent World War Two wrecks so you can wander through a piece of historical brilliance.

The diving sites around the Solomon Islands can be accessed via liveaboards and dive resorts, with both options offering truly unforgettable diving experiences. With many sites to choose from, we’ve narrowed it down to some of our favorites to help you plan your trip.

Bonegi

Located near the capital city of the Solomon Islands, Honiara on Guadalcanal, the Bonegi ship wrecks are some of the main WWII wreck diving areas popular with regulars who never tire of their marine diversity and interesting macro subjects.

Guadalcanal is regarded by many as the easiest place to start your diving adventures, with its close proximity to the centre of Honiara and with depths starting at just a few metres. Forming part of the iconic Iron Bottom Sound wrecks, Guadalcanal contributes to over 200ships and aircraft that lie within the depths of the sea.

Some 12km west of Honiara, divers will find Bonegi 1, home to a giant Japanese merchanttransport vessel and also known as Hirokawa Maru. The ship was one of eleven Japanesetransport ships attacked on their way to Guadalcanal in 1942 and now lies on the portsidewith a depth from 5 to 50 metres.

With approximately 18 metres visibility, there are lots of swim-throughs that allow divers toexplore the wreck, around the ship’s king posts and past the bridge wreckage. Thestreet-like paths through which you can swim offer a huge amount of marine growth, fromgorgonian sea fans growing out of the side of the wreck to corals in fantastic condition, withschools of fish all around.

This is the kind of wreck that offers something new and exciting each time, no matter howmany times you dive down into its depths. Whilst the visibility is not as clear as other famousdiving locations such as Fiji and Micronesia, its easy accessibility from the shore certainlymakes up for this fact.

Bonegi 2, or Kinugawa Maru is a smaller wreck than its predecessor and shallower, meaningit is suitable for all diving abilities. Its top can be seen poking out from the water, making itpopular with snorkelers as well as scuba-divers. The wreck is relatively open, allowing wondrous discovery of the life that thrives around the ship; batfish, hard corals, gorgoniansand soft corals, as well as beautiful lionfish. All the areas that are open to sunlight shimmerwith a vibrant display of colourful life, so this really is a picturesque dive for both beginnersand regular divers.

Florida Islands

Twin Tunnels

As the name would suggest, this wreck is formed of two tunnels eroded into the edge of thereef that descend from a seamount into a 10 metre deep open cave and onto a reef wallabout 36 metres and is located 1km southeast of Tulagi Island. As a coral bommie, the diveoffers an abundance of pelagic fish to admire, who treat the reef as somewhat of a refuge.Dog tooth tuna, bluefin trevally, Spanish mackerel and barracuda can often be spottedswimming in their masses along with grey reef, white tip and black tip sharks.

The top of the reef or seamount is as spectacular if not more than the tunnels so there is notnecessarily a need to dive down into the tunnels unless your heart desires it! Divers will beafforded beautiful vistas of pygmy seahorses, barrel sponges full of lobsters, cuttlefish,octopus, eels, rays and hundreds of species of fish and corals.

The tunnels are governed by a strong current so it is only recommended for strong divers,otherwise enjoy the glorious display that greets you at the top including corals in magnificentshape.

 Devils Highway

What diving dreams are made of, Devils Highway is one of the few places in the world whereyou can swim along with a colony of giant manta rays. As they feed over a shallow reef, thisis one for advanced divers as the currents are particularly strong. Once you are at the dropoff to the wall, kick down hard, find a place on the reef to hook onto and be delighted by overa dozen mantas swimming back and forth along the top of the wall as they feed in afascinating dancing display.

Due to its nutrition-rich currents, divers can also be treated to an array of other pelagics suchas sharks, batfish, cuttlefish, crabs, rays and scorpionfish.

Hopefully you’re not in a rush, as this is a very busy highway indeed.

Munda

It may not be a specific diving site, but Munda offers a treasure trove of spectacular walls,caverns, coral gardens and numerous WWII plane wrecks that all appear pristinely unspoilt.

Situated on the west side of New Georgia, about an hour flight from Honiara, Munda is ahaven for those divers who wish to steer away from the beaten path. During WWII, Munda acted as an important military airfield base which now means its relicsare scattered throughout the region, including Skull Island which homes many shrinesdisplaying human skulls, from the time when headhunting was a custom. Luckily notanymore!

The main diving operators are Dive Munda, who allow you access to over twenty dive sitesincluding natural reefs and small wrecks along the coastline. These sites attract a largenumber of pelagic fish.

 Shark Point

For guaranteed sightings of sharks and schools of pelagic fish, as well as a dive surroundedby an abundance of healthy, colourful corals, Shark Point is certainly pleasing. Expectgreater barracudas, rainbow runners, trevally, jacks, tuna and mackerel and of coursesharks and rays!

Dropping off at 600 metres down to depths of up to 60 metres, strong currents bring in awhirlwind of pelagic fish amid incredible gorgonian fans, soft corals and whip corals.

Bell P-39 Airacobra and The Dauntless Wreck (”‹Douglas SBD Dauntless”‹)

Discover these sunken treasures! These shallow dives are two American fighter aircraft andcome to life in a wonderful display of encrusted jewel-like corals, teeming with juvenile fishthat practically cover the wreckage from top to bottom.

These aircraft were in service when the United States entered WWII and were shot downduring a raid, making a crash landing in Rendova Harbour. Interestingly, the driver ofDauntless in 1995 visited the wreck site of his old plane on the 50th anniversary of the day itwas shot down. With this knowledge, rejoice to scenes of pelagic fish, from sweetlip and lionfish to coral trout and thousands of tiny baitfish.

Marovo Lagoon

Situated off a cluster of islands, Kicha, Mbulo and Male Male, Marovo Lagoon boasts theSouth Pacific diving you had always dreamed of. It is the largest double barrier reef enclosedlagoon in the world and divers are truly spoilt with an abundance of tropical sea life.

The entire lagoon is vast and expansive, offering beautiful vistas and clear, calm waters.Home to a variety of dive sites including drop-offs, coral gardens, caves and cuts andpassages where the ocean and lagoon meet, boredom doesn’t exist here.

Kicha Island

Located off the southeastern tip of Vangunu Islands and just outside the lagoon are an arrayof sites to enjoy.

Kavachi Corner is a stunning wall dive and divers can often hear the rumbling of the Kichavolcano while watching schools of parrotfish, rainbow runners, barracuda and snappersswim by. It’s an atmospheric dive to say the least with the booming symphony as thebackdrop to your spent beneath these waters.

There are plenty of other diving sites on the edges of the lagoon that run into the saltwaterparadise and are guided by many resorts in the area.

The Solomon Islands are a true diving haven, offering one of the largest varieties of divingsites in the world. Not only that, but the sites are extremely pristine and biodiverse whichmakes for an utterly enjoyable experience.

Now go explore the Solomon Islands for yourself and find your favourite dive site!

Diving conditions: usually 26-29 degrees Celsius with a visibility of approxiamtely 15 metresand sometimes 20-30 metres.

A tropical sanctuary awaits, where nature and culture combine to create lasting memories from your tropical getaway in the Land of Smiles.

Overlooking the azure waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Banyan Tree Samui is nestled amid the lush jungle of a private bay with elevated pool villas featuring spacious living spaces which flow naturally into an outdoor terrace.

Banyan Tree Samui’s all-pool villas are designed especially for discerning guests. Each villa is appointed with modern comforts such as air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. Considerate touches such as personal pillow selection, turndown services and an extensive bath menu will further enhance your holiday experience.

Amuse your palate with the culinary offerings provided for outstanding dining options. Enjoy a meticulously prepared authentic Thai menu at Saffron, or head to The Edge for international favourites and local specialties. Sands is located on the beach, and its speciality is its char-grill and wood fire oven cuisine.

The Lobby Lounge is perfect for thirst-quenching cocktails with a tropical twist. A selection of snacks and an innovative list of carefully created cocktails formulated specially by Banyan Tree mixologists await you at the Pool Bar.

Sanctuary for the senses

Rejuvenate your mind, body and soul in a setting of tropical serenity and indulge in the tender touch of the therapists at the awardwinning Banyan Tree Spa Samui or soak away your worries in The Rainforest, an exclusive hydrotherapy facility; Banyan Tree Samui is your true sanctuary for the senses.

Beyond this secluded haven, lies an abundance of excursion options for both couples and families alike, including a variety of cultural attractions as well as the idyllic natural beauty of Samui’s jungles and the breathtaking beaches, islands and coral reefs of the Gulf of Thailand. Exquisite dining coupled with eclectic shopping makes for another way to explore the diverse offerings of this modern island that still retains its rustic charm.

Banyan Tree Samui also features an events centre consisting of a prefunction room, two meeting rooms and a ballroom. Fitness facilities include a gym, yoga room, swimming pool with kids’ pool, library, games room and a kids’ club. From couples, families or groups to comfort-seekers or adventure-seekers, tropical splendour awaits at Banyan Tree Samui.

Soothe your senses with warm Thai hospitality and nature-inspired surroundings at this stylish retreat.

Nestled in nature, The Senses Resort & Pool Villas Phuket occupies a magnificent location within Patong’s lush forested hillside, and offers a relaxing ambience with supremely comfortable accommodation creating a haven of tranquility and wellbeing.

With stunning views over the city and azure-blue Andaman Sea beyond, the welcoming resort is an ideal respite for romantic couples and families to unwind and be pampered, yet is only a short distance from the gorgeous tropical beach and colourful streets that Patong is famous for.

The theme of nature runs deep within the resort, and the responsibility to the environment is taken seriously with a number of green practices and policies in place. Eco-friendly cleaning products are used, recyclable items are sorted, cleaning water is treated before disposal and energy saving takes place within all operations. To give back to nature and the community, guests can join tree planting projects, and local charities are supported.

There are a total of 116 spacious guestrooms and 20 pool villas each designed with relaxation and comfort in mind. Categories include Deluxe Room, Deluxe Seaview Room and the Deluxe Pool Access Room.

Suites offer a spacious sanctuary designed to reflect modern contemporary design and villas are generously appointed with a private pool, separate bedroom and living room, fully-equipped kitchenette and a relaxing outdoor area.

With elements of nature all around from the generous use of wood to the orange jasmine bath products and the warm colour tones of the decor, guests can feel at ease as soon as they enter their private sanctuary. For added convenience, each room is complete with the latest technology Smart TV and Wi-Fi internet access.

Guests can take advantage of a wealth of unrivalled services and amenities. Choose from a range of soothing treatments and massages exclusively designed to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul at the spa.

Enjoy a free shuttle service, and free access to Paradise Beach, or take a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool and sun deck with a spectacular view of Patong. Other facilities include a fitness centre, kids club and business centre.

Bensley Collection – Shinta Mani Siem Reap, the debut flagship of the famed hotel architect’s new luxe brand opened its doors in December 2017, introducing a whole new level of elegant world-class hospitality to the renowned temple town.

This exceptional Angkor hotel enjoys a tranquil and leafy setting within the French Quarter of Siem Reap, and is just a 15-minute tuktuk ride from the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat.

The 10 luxurious Khmer-inspired villas offer 156 square metres across two pavilions within high walled compounds ensuring its residents total privacy in their own tropical garden. The villas boast a floor-to-ceiling glass-walled bathroom with views over the garden and outdoor bathtub. Outside, the inviting lap pool offers complete privacy, and the upper deck is the perfect space to unwind under the ancient canopy of Siem Reap’s palace trees.

Bensley Butlers create a flawless stay, ensuring that everything is exactly as it should be. Every aspect of the Bensley Collection experience is about personalised service and providing the most authentic Khmer immersion. The Bensley Butlers can arrange anything from a night sleeping under the stars, a choice of world class cuisine, to tailored tours to Angkor’s dazzling temples.

Feast like the Kings of Angkor while experiencing Shinta Mani’s take on Khmer cuisine. The house kitchen can be summoned by the Bensley Butlers for tailor made breakfast-in-bed, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and everything in-between, all within the privacy of your villa.

Guests of the Bensley Collection also have exclusive access to all the facilities of Shinta Mani’s other Siem Reap properties, Shinta Mani Angkor and Shinta Mani Shack, including two pools, restaurants, Bensley’s Bar and the Shinta Mani Spa by Khmer Tonics.

Shinta Mani’s culture of ‘Open Doors, Open Hearts’ reflects its commitment to responsible tourism and invites guests to open their hearts to the beauty of the Kingdom of Cambodia, its gentle people and fascinating culture. Bensley Collection – Shinta Mani Siem Reap is proud to support the less fortunate in its community, especially through the education and development of young adults. A percentage of daily room rates contributes to supporting the activities of the Shinta Mani Foundation, meaning that each guest visiting the hotel will help to achieve its goal of creating a lasting and positive impact and ensuring a bright future for the people of Cambodia.

Pristine waters decorated by 2,000 small islands and coral-ringed atolls, Micronesia is the cookie-cutter example of a perfect diving environment.

Micronesia literally translates to “small islands” and accounts for the scattering of tropical islands over more than three million square miles of the Pacific Ocean. Most visitors to Micronesia come near and far to snorkel or scuba dive within the many wrecks from World War II and unearth the uncrowded reefs that blossom with an abundance of marine life. Micronesia really is a playground for diving fanatics and beginners. The tropical climate provides some of the best diving environments for all-year round enjoyment. The dry season is between December and April and the rainy season lasts from April to December, but that doesn’t mean the underwater worlds cease their energetic splendour. Micronesia literally translates to “small islands” and accounts for the scattering of tropical islands over more than three million square miles of the Pacific Ocean. Most visitors to Micronesia come near and far to snorkel or scuba dive within the many wrecks from World War II and unearth the uncrowded reefs that blossom with an abundance of marine life. Micronesia really is a playground for diving fanatics and beginners. The tropical climate provides some of the best diving environments for all-year round enjoyment. The dry season is between December and April and the rainy season lasts from April to December, but that doesn’t mean the underwater worlds cease their energetic splendour.

For those interested in wreck dives, or new to diving and intrigued in the historical world that lies below the surface, Chuuk lagoon, regarded as some as the best wreck dive in the world, is just the place where your dreams will come true. This protected reef was chosen as the Japanese naval base in the Pacific Ocean prior to the Second World War and holds a rather tragic and infamous history. Seventy years on from Operation Hailstone, which saw the Japanese fleet destroyed by US and Allied Forces, the diving site is now a magnet for wreck diving fanatics. With 50-70 wrecks strewn across the lagoon, they range from those that are closer to the surface to deeper options that require an advanced or technical diving certificate. Dives include a ‘Million Dollar Wreck’, so called due to divers continuing to find a large amount of army equipment in and around the cargo ship to the present day, as well as the Nippo Maru, an atmospheric site known for its eery gas masks found throughout.

Whilst Chuuk offers an underwater world of historical wonder, divers shouldn’t expect an abundance of marine life in these waters. Palau is where you’re certainly more likely to see the vibrant visions of corals and burgeoning sea life, reminiscent of the documentaries that inspired you to dive in the first place. The majority of diving is focused on drift diving along the coral reef lagoon and adjacent islands which drip with colourful coral and schools of pelagic fish. Offering sites such as the Chandelier Cave for more adrenalin-thirsty divers, consisting of five interconnected caves with different chambers to explore, to the Jellyfish Lake, a delicate ecosystem where snorkelers can swim amongst stingless jellyfish, Palau is one of the best and most diverse places to dive in Micronesia. No matter where you stay in Palau, due to the abundance of dive sites, you’re never too far from an amazing underwater display. Palau Royal Resort is situated along the east coast of Malakal Island which is in great proximity to the harbour where many diving tours set off. East of Malakal Island are the Rock Islands where you’ll find the likes of the famous Blue Corner site swimming with a variety of underwater life, as well as the Helmet Wreck, another Japanese coaster that was sunk during the Second World War. Return to your own private beach at Palau Royal Resort and relax your muscles after a long day exploring Palau’s wondrous diving sitesTo escape the more touristicated diving areas, Kosrae, covered with dense tropical jungles and volcanic peaks is a remote island that instills you with a belief that you’re seemingly the only inhabitants of this small atoll; you’ll certainly be warmly welcomed by the locals. The dive sites here boast drop-offs and hard corals as well as sandy bottoms, that make for a particularly crystal clear dive. Akin to other areas of Micronesia, there’s a shipwreck known as the Lenore which was sunk in the nineteenth century and attracts visitors far and wide. The attractive health of the coral reefs at Kosrae and the visibility that is afforded here is also a major draw to this area. Within Kosrae, you’ll find Kosrae Nautilus Resort, offering 18 air-conditioned rooms and convenient proximity to some of the best scuba diving sites. Why not explore the fourteenth-century Lelu ruins or allow the resort to arrange a scuba diving tour around the islands with their own in-house diving operators and divemasters who possess a wealth of experience.The islands and atolls of Micronesia may be small in terms of their land mass, but they make up for this in their diving potential. Offering almost everything that makes up a perfect dive, including mesmerising historical shipwrecks, hard and soft coral gardens, drop-offs, drift dives, shark dives and vibrant schools of hundreds of species of fish, Micronesia is a haven for the curious scuba divers of the world.

Regarded by many as one of the best diving spots in the world, there’s no denying the unprecedented underwater beauty of Fiji. From plunging down to the depths of sharks to capturing the enchantment of 10,000 square kilometres of coral reefs, Fiji certainly has a lot to offer both beginners and advanced divers.

The Fijian archipelago boasts a magical underwater world of thriving marine life including five out of seven species of turtle, as many as twelve different species of sharks, as well as a colourful array of tropical fish and of course, the beautiful corals.

To help you organise your Fijan diving trip, we’ve collated some of the best diving spots throughout the islands. From caves, walls, caverns and soft coral reefs to shark dives and night dives, there’s an experience for everyone.

1. Mantaray Island

This wouldn’t be a definitive list of the best diving spots in Fiji if it weren’t to include Mantaray Island, located in the Yasawa Islands.

From May to October, this diving spot becomes densely populated with… you guessed it, the majestic manta ray. Great for beginners, snorkelers can access this site by walking off the beach where you are immediately on top of the Mantaray House Reef, home to over 200 species of colourful marine life. For diving, it’s recommended to walk to the end of the resort and flow with the current north or south, so you’re able to experience everything the site has to offer. You can even take a boat out further from the island to explore some more of Fiji’s spellbinding diving spots with a highly experienced SSI dive team for the more adventurous divers out there.

What’s on offer:

• Shark dive with black tip, white tip, grey reef sharks and bull sharks
• Freediving courses
• Scuba diving and gain open water dive certificate
• Manta dive
• Night dives
• 23 to 30 degrees celsius

If you’re basing your trip on navigating between the Yasawa Islands, Yasawa Island Resort & Spa is a heavenly choice. Exclusive and beautifully remote, it’s a private paradise with amazing access to everything the islands have to offer, plus, there are plenty of scheduled activities, trips and tours already included in the package.

2. Shark Reef, Beqa Lagoon

If you wish to explore the fascinating underwater habitats of sharks then the main island of Viti Levu, home to the Coral Coast, will place you within touching distance of these amazing animals. For the adrenaline seekers, there are several sites here where you can dive down deep, including the amazing shark feed dive at Shark Reef in Pacific Harbour’s Beqa Lagoon. Since the area is protected from illegal fishing, you’ll find an underwater realm blossoming with marine life, including eight species of shark and clear and calm waters all year round.

Whilst not for the faint-hearted, shark dives are perfectly safe, with the many feeding sites here sticking to strict feeding times and using a protective coral wall, as well as using signals and body language that has been put into practice for decades.

The guides of the dive take divers down to approximately 5-30m throughout the shark feed, where you’ll see whitetip, blacktip, grey reef, bull and tiger sharks as they tuck in for their lunch.

What’s on offer:

• Intermediate – advanced diving site
• Eight species of shark
• 5-30m depth
• 25 to 29 degrees celsius
• there are plenty of scheduled activities, trips and tours already included in the package.

3. Mamanucas

Located off of Viti Levu’s west coast, the volcanic Mamanucas offer their fair share of Fijian activities, cultural delights and excursions for every member of the family. For those seeking more of an adventurous getaway, there are plenty of dive sites for both novice and advanced divers, with excellent visibility and considerably warm temperatures.

Namotu Wall

Brimming with schools of colourful fish, turtles and reef sharks, this dive site is perched on the edge of a 1000m drop off on the outer barrier reef. Due to the plunge, it is best reserved for experienced divers and offers an abundance of marine life and colourful photo opportunities.

 

Castaway Passage

Setting itself apart from the other dive sites in Fiji, the Castaway Passage is unique in its position, set at a break in the Barrier Reef, allowing large volumes of water to flow through, offering a continuous scene of marine life, including manta rays, sharks, marlin and other pelagic fish. It is said to play host to the unexpected!

 

Salamanda Shipwreck

Be transported back in time with a dive down to the depths of the SS Salamanda, a shipwreck measuring 40 metres that is now covered with anemones and soft corals. Be patient and you might see the crabs or shrimps come out from their hiding place for a glamorous photo or two. This is perfect for divers who like to capture atmospheric photos within the depths of the Pacific Ocean.

What’s on offer:

• Calm dive sites for novice divers
• Numerous passages on the outer edges of the lagoon for advanced divers
• 9-30m depth
• 25 to 29 degrees celsius

Staying at Lomani Island Resort allows you to enjoy diving tours with Subsurface Fiji, a multi-award-winning, 5-star PADI diving company. Earn your certification or take your first underwater dive whatever your level, the resort will organise dive trips to 44 dive sites throughout the Mamanuca Islands. The waters around the Lomani Island Resort offers the perfect calm and blissful environment from which to learn to scuba dive, as well as close proximity to the deeper, more adventurous waters for experienced divers.

4. Outer Navula Barrier Reef

Proving less revered than its Fijian sisters, the Navula Barrier Reef nonetheless offers a wide variety of dive sites including wall dives, swim-throughs, caves, canyons and idyllic coral reefs. Headed up by the Scuba Bula Dive Centre, there are a range of sites catering for beginners as well as those with a larger number of dives under their belt.

 

The North Reef Fish Wonders

Offering a diving depth of 5-16 metres this site is perfect for beginners, photographers and those seeking a mesmerising night dive. Divers can expect an abundance of soft corals, an eighteenth-century anchor as well as large schools of red snappers and white tip reef sharks.

 

Cloudbreak

Fame for its amazing surf, this site also offers a great diving spot, Cloudbreak Wall, at a depth of 22 metres. Taken by the current, it offers a perfectly surreal yet relaxing drift dive along a hard coral wall covered in beautiful fan corals, notably offering divers a fantastic scene of turtles, eagle rays, manta rays and whale sharks.

 

The Rainbow Cascade

This site really is as magical as it sounds. At a depth of 30 metres, scuba dive down to a kaleidoscope of multicoloured soft corals hanging from the wall. This dive site is highly recommended for advanced divers as it does include a swim-through which exits mid way down a sheer wall. It’s definitely worth it for the abundance of marine life that serenade this dive experience.

What’s on offer:

• Wide variety of diving sites from wall dives to caverns and swim-throughs
• Depths from 5-16m to 50-54 metres
• 24 to 30 degrees celsius

The Fiji Marriott Resort at Momi Bay offers guests the reward of blissful seclusion whilst still boasting an array of fun activities and day tours. Staying in an overwater villa affords the opportunity to scuba-dive and snorkel directly in the shallow waters steps from your villa, which is great for beginners and younger divers. The resort is also situated in a prime location to take advantage of diving trips to the outer Navula Barrier Reef where the underwater world shines most brightly.

5. Great Astrolabe Reef

Taking the scuba-diving world by storm for decades, the Great Astrolabe Reef has blown away even the most advanced and experienced divers. Regarded as one of the world’s top diving spots and the fourth largest, the diversity of marine life and coral structures is more varied here than anywhere in the archipelago. Located on Kadavu island, the 100km long diving expanse benefits from the fact that it is one of the least visited islands of Fiji.

Due to its remote nature, dive experiences are exceptionally clear and natural formations remain undisturbed. Decorating the striking underwater scenes, marine life spotted here includes reef sharks, manta rays, turtles, barracudas, hammerheads and many many species of fish.

 

Eagle Rock

Reigning supreme as one of the Great Astrolabe Reef’s most famous dives, the site offers a mixture of pinnacles, narrow swim-throughs, rugged walls and rocky seabeds. As well as a display of eagle rays and large schools of fish, it is the beautiful hard corals that really make this diving site one to remember.

 

Alacrity Rocks

Offering a playground of misshapen arches, tunnels and basins, navigate the beauty of this site in something of an underwater obstacle course. The astonishing shadows of light as they filter through the darkness of the reef creates prime photo opportunities and an atmospheric dive to say the least.

What’s on offer:

• 4-34m depth
• Beginners to advanced divers
• 25 to 32 degrees celsius
• Coral structures, reef sharks, manta rays, dolphins, turtles, whales

Located approximately 100km south of Suva, the largest metropolitan city in Fiji, it’s the perfect base from which to soak up the beauty of the Great Astrolabe Reef and then return to the energy of this area of Fiji. The Grand Pacific Hotel is one of Suva’s oldest residences, renowned for its range of dining options with six different venues. If you’re a diving enthusiast or you’re eager to have your first diving experience, Fiji’s offering of diving sites is vast and diverse there really is something for every ability and every interest.

Love diving? Of course you do! That’s why you’re reading this blog. You want to find the best places to go scuba diving on the breath-taking Cook Islands in the South Pacific. With the information pollution online today, making the right choices can seem impossible. That’s why we at Asian Paradises have done the homework for you. So, let’s take a look at the best places to dive in the Cook Islands, according to our careful research!

The Cook Islands is a dreamy location set against a cinematic background. It’s love at first sight for divers from all around the world who travel here for some peace, quiet, and of course, epic underwater action. But – before booking a dive, there are a couple of facts you should know about. The island is circled by gorgeous coral reefs, underneath which you’ll find deep oceanic bliss.

The 15 Cook Islands cover around 93 square miles, spread across 850,000 square miles of sea. Naturally, there are plenty of opportunities to make unforgettable memories under the sea!

Rarotonga is the area’s primary activity centre, with a range of dive centres and resorts. Apart from various airports, restaurants, and accommodation opportunities for every budget, you’ll also find easy and beginner-friendly diving excursions in and around Rarotonga.

Seeing as the island is nestled within a protected lagoon, you’re safe to explore the ocean freely. Currents can be swift at the passes, so some experience may be required. Rarotonga is home to around 40 dive sites, with numerous drop-offs, caves, famous shipwrecks, and exquisite coral gardens that have to be seen to be believed.

Aitutaki is another popular diving location on the Cook Islands, with a stunning reef profile in the lagoon and at the passes. Divers come here to enjoy a more relaxing and intimate diving experience. Aitutaki is the less-visited diving area of the Islands, but it’s not one to be missed.

With the chance to encounter spectacular humpback whales passing by during autumn and summer, avid divers can’t visit this part of the world without checking Aitutaki off their bucket list. From rare sharks to eagle rays, oceanic manta rays, barracuda, snappers, and fusiliers, you’ll be blessed with must-see sights when diving in the Cook Islands. You’re guaranteed a colourful adventure with a visual feast of every colour under the rainbow!

The Best Sites to Dive in the Cook Islands

The Mataora: A popular wreck sunk especially for divers in 1990 as a stunning artificial reef. This 45m ship has weathered its fair share of tropical cyclones, and today lies at around 18m below sea level.

Black Rock: Massive coral plates and delicately hued walls give divers a warm welcome. Explore all the creatures Aitutaki has to offer, from green turtles to fish, bass, and more.

Edna’s Anchor: Divers from all around the world love to explore this sandy reef sitting at 22m. A dynamic drop-off plummets to over 65m, bringing you up close and personal with cute reef characters you won’t believe exist in real life.

Bluewater Diving: Diving in crystal-clear blue waters like these feels like a dream come true. You’ll explore deep off-shore waters peppered with Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs). These floating objects are deeply-anchored, attracting various fish big and small.

Avaavaroa Passage: Perfect for the more experienced diver, this adventure course of strong elements and endless excitement is the perfect place to spot white tip reef sharks. If you’re lucky, you might even encounter the odd grey reef shark from April to August – a magnificent sight to behold. You’ll also likely catch eagle rays, massive morays, and turtles cruising along.

Training

If you lack prior experience, we strongly recommend you take an underwater course to prepare you for everything you’ll be seeing and doing underwater in the Cook Islands. If you’re considering capturing some ocean snaps, consider an underwater photography course online. Both ideas will be well worth your time and money, so you can embark on this exciting adventure with confidence.

When to Go

While the Islands are blessed with an abundance of sunshine all year round, the rainy season is from November to March – even though these months have some of the hottest days of the year. Be sure to check the weather forecasts before booking your trip! Rest assured that you’re almost guaranteed great visibility in the Cook Islands, as well as incredible water temperatures of 24-27ºC. With an average air temperature of 27ºC throughout the year, the Cook Islands really are like a slice of paradise on Earth.

Where to Stay

Asian Paradises has partnered with the Cook Island’s most luxurious and super-friendly hotels offering the personal touch to guests from all over the world. If you’re considering booking a diving trip for a few days and are looking for the best places to stay, here are our personal favourites:

Aitutaki

Pacific Resort Aitutaki

 

 

Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort

Rarotonga

The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

 

 

Sunset Resort

 

 

Sanctuary Rarotonga on the Beach

 

 

Royale Takitumu

 

 

Palm Grove

 

 

Pacific Resort Rarotonga

 

 

Muri Beach Club Hotel

 

 

Moana Sands Lagoon Resort

 

 

Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel & Villa

 

 

Little Polynesian Resort

 

 

Lagoon Breeze Villas

 

 

Crown Beach Resort

 

 

Club Raro

 

 

Aro’a Beachside Inn

Now that you know the best places to explore the ocean in the Cook Islands, it’s time to get booking! Asian Paradises is the only Australian travel publication to have maintained such high service standards. We dig deep to source the best hotels to partner with on your behalf. Oh, and best of all, we don’t take commission from bookings, meaning our clients save big time!

When you book your diving excursions through Asian Paradises, you won’t be treated like a number on booking-websites-that-shall-not-be-named. We greet our guests, old and new, like personal friends, taking pride in introducing you to our trusted hotel partners and tour operators. These people are also dear friends of ours.

 

Excited to join the Asian Paradises inner-circle? Make your first booking today!

A place where time stands still so you can enjoy an unparalleled experience. Formed of 15 islands and atolls scattered over two million square kilometres off the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find the Cook Islands in the Polynesian triangle, so named due to its connecting points of Hawaii, New Zealand and the Easter Island.

When you visit the Cook Islands you’ll want to make sure you check out the two main hubs; Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Rarotonga International Airport is where you’ll touch down and begin to be blown away by the mesmerising natural beauty around you. Where one minute you’re admiring sparkling white beaches and aquamarine lagoons and the next it’s lush green fields and vast mountainous peaks. Put the wind in your sails with endless experiences to choose from, diving deep underwater or delving further into the lush tropical landscape.

Avarua is the main town on Rarotonga and the capital of the Cook Islands. This is where you’ll find a great selection of shops, cafes and restaurants and a laid-back vibe that is quite contagious. You’ll also find the main market Punanga Nui Market as well as the island’s twin harbours and a host of cultural sights to explore.

Sister island to Rarotonga, Aitutaki is the Cook Islands’ answer to your romantic dreams. Translating to “a little paradise”, you’ll have access to one of the most beautiful lagoons and begin to understand why this destination has proved so popular with honeymooners. Trust us, you won’t get sick of these tranquil surroundings.

Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort

Pay a visit to the more remote northern Cook Islands, Manihiki, Rakahanga and Tongareva, the very places where the treasured Avaiki pearl lies. Translating to ‘spiritual homeland’, there is a story of rich heritage and determination etched into every Avaiki pearl which is why these islands are well worth exploring.

The Cook Islands offer more than just their heavenly aesthetic you’ll find plenty of activities and experiences to craft your ideal itinerary. Snorkel and kayak in the crystal clear waters, go hiking in the dense rainforests of Rarotonga, hire a moped to explore the islands, or try a spot of whale-watching off the coast of the warm South Pacific waters. Lagoon cruises are a great choice on your visit to the Cook Islands and are available on two of the world’s most beautiful lagoons, Muri Lagoon on Rarotonga and the world famous Aitutaki Lagoon.To fully experience the beauty and enchantment of Aitutaki, there’s no better way than taking a 6 hour Vaka cruise along the lagoons where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views and a relaxing atmosphere. If water activities are your thing, the Cook Islands are perfect. Whatever kind of holiday you desire, the Cook Islands has it all.

The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

From first-class hotels and resorts to backpacker accommodation and even family friendly resorts and self-catering villas and bungalows, the Cook Islands offer stunning stays for every kind of budget. All of the major inhabited islands can be reached by flying Air Rarotonga and there are more than three daily flights between the main hubs, Rarotonga and Aitutaki.

The Island of Hawai’i is the youngest, the most diverse and the grandest of all the Hawaiian islands.

Aptly nicknamed “The Big Island” it is larger than all the other islands put together. It’s a land of amazing contrasts with lush rainforests, monolithic cliffs, spectacular ocean vistas, white, black and even green sand beaches, plunging waterfalls, deserts, plains and active volcanoes.

First discovered more than a millennium ago, the Island of Hawaii is where Polynesian mythology says Madame Pele, goddess of fire, dwells. She is said to live in the firepot of Halemaumau in Kilauea crater on the slopes of Mauna Loa, from where she actively pours new lava almost daily.

Hilo is the seat of government and near it are rainforests and black lava rocks hugging a serrated shoreline that is expanding thanks to Kilauea Volcano, the world’s most active volcano.

Volcanoes National Park is best accessed from Hilo. You can safely explore lava tubes and hiking trails around this amazing site. Nearby is Punaluu Beach Park with picturesque black sand beaches. North of Hilo the highway snakes between mountains and sea to Waipi`o Valley and Waimea through kilometres of fields where sugarcane once grew. Hidden amongst the mountains are a multitude of waterfalls including the impressive Akaka Falls.

A must is a visit to the Hawai’i Tropical Botanical Garden where you can see more than 2000 species of tropical plants. Across the island, near Kawaihae, is Heiau, built by King Kamehameha, which is now an historical site.

In Waimea, the Parker Ranch’s historic homes house a magnificent collection of Italian and French period pieces and more than a hundred original paintings by masters such as Renoir and Degas. In this region you can learn about a different side of Hawai’i that is also home to paniolos, or Hawai’ian cowboys. Lapakahi State Historical Park, north of Kawaihae, was once an ancient Hawai’ian fishing village. A short drive from the park is King Kamehameha’s birthplace and Mookini Luakini Heiau believed to have been constructed about 480 AD.

The Kohala Coast is home to magnificent resorts with breathtaking views of lava flows. Anaehoomalu Bay, with its picture postcard beach, curves between the shallow bay and an ancient Hawaiian fishpond once used by royalty. Once home to Hawai’ian royalty, Kailua-Kona is now a vibrant resort and shopping precinct with a rich cultural heritage. It is also a great base from which to explore Kona coffee country and the unique Painted Church where columns form the trunks of painted palm trees.

The Island of Hawai’i produces 39 percent of the world’s macadamia nuts and Kona is the only place in the US where gourmet coffee is grown commercially. It also has the world’s largest anthurium and orchid flower industries. There are 20 golf courses on the Big Island, many with green fairways carved from ancient lava fields. Activities include fishing for marlin, a helicopter or small plane ride over red flowing lava and diving at night with giant manta rays.

Getting around the Island of Hawai’i is convenient and easy. The most popular mode of transport for international visitors is to hire a car and explore the island at leisure. There are also bus tours, shuttles and taxis.

There are plenty of options when it comes to accommodation on the Island of Hawai’i. From charming bed and breakfasts to hotels, condominiums, lodges and five-star resorts, there’s something to suit every traveller and budget.