Gulf of Papagayo

The Gulf of Papagayo is a dive zone on Costa Rica's northwest Pacific coast, with more than 20 local sites within 10 to 20 minutes by boat from shore. Boats launch from Playa Hermosa, Playas del Coco, Flamingo or Tamarindo.

Terrain is volcanic pinnacles and reef slopes with easy navigation, plus macro hotspots. Sites are multi-level, and the area suits divers from beginner to advanced, including mixed groups and new certifications.

Marine life includes eagle rays, sea turtles, octopus, frogfish, seahorses, harlequin shrimp and nudibranchs, with large schools of jacks, grunts and snapper. Schools of white-tipped reef sharks are often seen resting on the sandy bottom.