Scuba Diving

Best Countries for Women to Experience Scuba Diving

Indonesia – The World’s Coral Capital

Best Spots: Raja Ampat, Komodo, Bali (Tulamben, Amed)
Why It’s Idyllic: Incredible biodiversity, affordable diving, and plenty of women dive instructors and groups in Bali.
Bonus: Liveaboard dive trips in Raja Ampat are often women-led.

Egypt – Dive the Red Sea’s Wonders

Best Spots: Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab (Blue Hole), Marsa Alam
Why It’s Idyllic: Vibrant reefs, shipwrecks, and desert beauty. Dahab has a peaceful, welcoming vibe with yoga and dive hostels popular among solo female travelers.
Add-on: Women’s-only dive retreats often available in Dahab.

Philippines – Island-Hopping with Coral Reefs

Best Spots: Tubbataha Reefs, Apo Island, Malapascua, Coron
Why It’s Idyllic: Amazing macro and wreck diving, warm waters, and budget-friendly diving schools with female instructors.
Experience: Dive with thresher sharks in Malapascua!

 Australia – Great Barrier Reef Majesty

Best Spots: Cairns, Whitsundays, Lady Elliot Island
Why It’s Idyllic: A bucket-list dive destination with eco-conscious resorts and a strong safety culture.
Women’s Pick: Reef-friendly retreats and snorkeling-diving packages with yoga.

 Maldives – Overwater Luxury & Reef Life

Best Spots: North & South Male Atoll, Ari Atoll, Fuvahmulah
Why It’s Idyllic: Perfect for both beginners and advanced divers. Many resorts offer women-only diving days and wellness-focused packages.
Unmissable: Dive with manta rays and whale sharks in Ari Atoll.

Thailand – Dive & Chill in Paradise

Best Spots: Koh Tao, Similan Islands, Koh Phi Phi
Why It’s Idyllic: One of the most popular places to get PADI-certified—affordable, social, and beginner-friendly.
Community: Many women-led dive centers on Koh Tao.

 Mexico – Caribbean Magic & Cenote Diving

Best Spots: Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Tulum
Why It’s Idyllic: Dive coral reefs by day and mystical freshwater cenotes by night.
Women-Friendly: Eco-diving tours and women’s dive collectives in Tulum.

 Belize – Barrier Reef & Blue Hole Adventures

Best Spots: Ambergris Caye, Turneffe Atoll, Great Blue Hole
Why It’s Idyllic: Home to the second-largest barrier reef, with safe, well-organized dive operations and laid-back island vibes.
Highlight: Explore the mysterious Blue Hole with a female dive master.

Costa Rica – Pacific Coast Wild Diving

Best Spots: Catalina Islands, Cocos Island, Drake Bay
Why It’s Idyllic: Dramatic underwater seascapes and abundant marine life, perfect for adventurous women travelers.
Tip: Join all-women dive and wildlife retreats that pair jungle and sea.

 Fiji – Soft Coral Capital of the World

Best Spots: Taveuni, Beqa Lagoon, Yasawa Islands
Why It’s Idyllic: Friendly locals, colorful coral gardens, and dive resorts catering to women-led groups.
Unique: Dive with reef sharks and stay in a women-run ecolodge.

 Honduras – Caribbean Value & Vibe

Best Spots: Roatán, Utila
Why It’s Idyllic: Very affordable PADI certification options, chill island vibes, and female-friendly dive hostels.
Vibe: Ideal for women seeking a community feel.

 French Polynesia – Luxury Meets Adventure

Best Spots: Rangiroa, Fakarava, Bora Bora
Why It’s Idyllic: Dreamy lagoons and thrilling drift dives. French Polynesia offers luxury stays with tailored dive and spa packages for women.
Highlight: Encounter dolphins and hammerheads in Fakarava.

 Mozambique – Off-the-Beaten-Path Beauty

Best Spots: Tofo Beach, Bazaruto Archipelago
Why It’s Idyllic: Whale sharks, manta rays, and pristine reefs with few crowds. Tofo is safe, relaxed, and increasingly popular among solo female divers.
Extra: Women’s conservation projects welcome volunteers.

 Galápagos (Ecuador) – For Experienced Divers

Best Spots: Wolf Island, Darwin Island, Santa Cruz
Why It’s Idyllic: Powerful, thrilling diving with sea lions, sharks, and marine iguanas.
Advanced Only: Best enjoyed via liveaboard trips, some of which are female-only.

 Greece – Clear Mediterranean Waters

Best Spots: Santorini, Crete, Zakynthos
Why It’s Idyllic: Ideal for beginner divers, history lovers, and those looking to mix beach leisure with underwater fun.
Relaxed Option: Combine dive sessions with wine tastings and village strolls.

 Malta – Compact & Dive-Ready

Best Spots: Gozo, Comino, Cirkewwa
Why It’s Idyllic: One of Europe’s best shore-diving destinations. Safe, walkable, and perfect for solo or first-time travelers.
Popular With: Women’s dive clubs from across Europe.

 Spain (Canary Islands) – Europe’s Tropical Escape

Best Spots: Tenerife, Lanzarote, El Hierro
Why It’s Idyllic: Volcanic seascapes, warm water, and well-established dive schools that cater to all levels.
Solo Friendly: Lots of group travel options with multilingual instructors.

 Turks & Caicos – Caribbean Clarity & Calm

Best Spots: Providenciales, Grand Turk
Why It’s Idyllic: Stunning visibility and white-sand beaches make for relaxed, confidence-building dives.
Best For: Wellness and diving combos for busy women looking to recharge.

 Bonaire (Dutch Caribbean) – Diver’s Paradise

Best Spots: Bari Reef, Klein Bonaire
Why It’s Idyllic: Known for easy shore diving and self-guided adventures. Very safe, clean, and organized.
Ideal For: Independent women divers who prefer freedom and flexibility.

 Japan (Okinawa Islands) – Culture & Coral

Best Spots: Kerama Islands, Ishigaki, Yonaguni
Why It’s Idyllic: Unique blend of Japanese culture and rich marine life. Safe, respectful, and welcoming to solo travelers.
Tip: Combine diving with cultural experiences like tea ceremonies or beachside onsens.