Whether you are planning a weekend escape or a longer break, April is a great month to organize a scuba diving holiday in many destinations around the world.
If you are planning a short break and don’t want to travel too far, April is among the best months to dive with tiger sharks in the Bahamas, while also being one of the best periods of the year to dive in the crystalline waters of Turks and Caicos.
If you are up for a longer holiday, April is simply the best time to visit the Southern Red Sea region, owing to the comfortable surface and water temperatures.
While booking your dive trip, bear in mind that Easter Holidays in many parts of the world fall during the last week of March and the first week of April 2024. To avoid price peaks, I suggest you plan your holidays starting from the second week of April.
Scuba Diving in April
The best diving destinations in April 2024 are located in four different continents, North America, South America, Asia, and Africa. They each have their own unique features in terms of marine life and are suitable for scuba divers of all levels. If you are not scuba certified yet and are looking for a destination to take your open water certification, I would definitely recommend Tiger Beach (Bahamas), Turks and Caicos, and Addu Atoll in the Maldives. Those destinations have world class dive centers and are most suited for beginners.
If you are planning to go on a diving vacation in April, I suggest booking well in advance (3 to 6 months). Holiday destinations in this time of the year are not as crowded as in December/January or June through September, but if you want to strike the best deals, I always recommend booking well in advance.
So don’t wait further and read through my post for some inspiration.
How Did I Pick the Best Scuba Diving Destinations for April?
As a diver and travel addict, I know exactly how it feels while booking a scuba diving trip. Excitement in the booking phase, post-payment “depression”, and finally euphoria once the trip starts. To make sure you make the right choice and that you have an enjoyable and breath-taking experience, I have chosen the top scuba diving destinations in April based on the following criteria.
- Personal Experience: I recommend destinations where I have actually been or that have been recommended to me by fellow divers that I trust (usually scuba diving instructors). If I recommend a specific hotel, dive operation, or dive resort, I have personally tried it out and tested and genuinely believe it is up to the pickiest standards.
- Seasonality: my recommendations are not exclusively linked to high season when it comes to scuba diving. There are quite some places around the globe where you can strike amazing deals in low season while still having unforgettable dives. From personal experience, best time to strike good deals are the periods across seasons.
- Overall Experience: In my scuba holidays I might travel alone, in a couple (with my non-diver partner, or with fellow divers). Not all scuba diving destinations are fit for all types of travelers. I am always super transparent If I see that a scuba trip is not the best option for solo traveling, for traveling with a non-diving partner or for traveling with kids.
- Marine Life: Scuba diving operators sometimes tend to overpromise when it comes to the type of marine life that can be spotted. Although luck plays a huge role here, I am as realistic as possible, and will only comment on marine life sightings based on what I saw and on what you can spot with a high probability.
That said, I am always open to feedback and to learn about personal stories and reviews from fellow divers. Feel free to get in touch for advice, recommendations, or simply for some nice diving talk.
Top 10 Scuba Diving Destinations for April 2024
Let’s dive into the top scuba diving destinations in April 2024. I will start from the easier to reach destinations (ideal for a frugal weekend or week escape) to the most remote ones requiring some more planning.
Tiger Beach, Bahamas
Tiger Beach in the Bahamas is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating scuba diving destinations in the world. Especially if you are into shark diving and underwater photography, Tiger Beach offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to dive closely with several shark species. This includes, of course, tiger sharks.
Although the best period to scuba dive in the Bahamas runs from October to January (this is when you have greatest chances of spotting different species of sharks), there is a resident tiger shark population (mostly females) inhabiting the waters of Tiger Beach. This means that you will have excellent chances of spotting these majestic creatures during April as well.
In April, you will be able to do so with fewer crowds, making the whole experience even more unique. If you are into underwater photography, fewer crowds mean more occasions to take pictures.
Besides the possibility to spot tiger sharks, April is a perfect month to scuba dive in Tiger Beach due to the pleasant weather conditions both above and below the surface. Water temperature is just right, hovering around 78-80°F (25-27°C), making it comfortable for extended dives. Visibility is exceptional, often exceeding 100 feet.
When it comes to accommodations in tiger beach, I recommend two options. If you are planning to dive exclusively on Tiger Beach (with tiger sharks), I recommend contacting Vincent and Debra Canabal from Epic Diving. They offer fully inclusive tiger shark diving packages with private accommodation. Alternatively, you can contact Michael from Reef Oasis Dive Club. They also offer some solutions that include both diving and accommodation at the Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham, one of my favorite hotels in Freeport. The Reef Oasis Dive Club is also perfect if you are not a certified scuba diver and are looking to get your open water diver certification in the Bahamas.
If you are into more than just tiger shark diving, I definitely recommend getting gin touch with Cristina Zenato and her team. Cristina organizes regularly liveaboard trips with Shark Explorers around the island of Grand Bahama. The trips are entirely focused around observing (and learning more about) many different species of sharks, including tiger sharks.
Beyond the sharks, marine life at Tiger Beach (and in Grand Bahama in general) is diverse and captivating. Divers can swim alongside gentle giant groupers, playful dolphins, and a kaleidoscope of colorful reef fish. The vibrant coral formations and underwater landscapes are awe-inspiring, making each dive a journey into an enchanting world beneath the surface.
All in all, Tiger Beach is a scuba diving paradise in April, thanks to its perfect weather, excellent dive operators, and incredible dive sites teeming with diverse marine life. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a novice, this destination promises an unforgettable underwater adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of our oceans.
From personal experience, note that diving with tiger sharks requires some level of comfort with your diving equipment, buoyancy, trim, and large marine species in general. If you feel you don’t have enough experience, it is always good to check with the diving operators if they would allow you to visit Tiger Beach.
If you are planning to visit the Bahamas, and are unsure whether Tiger Beach is the perfect destination for you, check out my ultimate guide on scuba diving the Bahamas.
Belize
Belize, often referred to as “Mother Nature’s Best-Kept Secret,” is a scuba diver’s paradise throughout the year, but April holds a special charm for underwater enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and a diverse range of dive sites, Belize stands out as one of the premier destinations for scuba diving in April.
April in Belize offers near-ideal conditions for scuba diving, thanks to the calm seas and comfortable water temperatures. The dry season is in full swing, ensuring good visibility, making it a perfect time to explore the underwater wonders of the Belize Barrier Reef. If you are seeking a unique and unforgettable experience, the Blue Hole, a natural wonder, is a must-visit.
If you are interested in a day trip to the Great Blue Hole, I recommend getting in touch Amigos del Mar dive shop. They organize daily trips to the Lighthouse Reef Atoll and Blu Hole, provided they reach a minimum number of 10 divers. From personal experience, this trip can be quite exhausting. It takes in total 11 hours and if the sea is not flat I strongly recommend taking some seasickness medication and to bring suncream.
If you would like to explore more of Belize’s underwater world than the famous Blue Hole, the country boasts several top-notch dive resorts that cater to divers of all skill levels. Ambergris Caye is a hotspot for divers, offering a range of accommodation and easy access to some of the best dive sites. Resorts like Victoria House and Ramon’s Village offer world-class amenities and guided diving excursions, ensuring a comfortable and unforgettable experience.
When it comes to dive sites, Belize is second to none in the Caribbean Sea. Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the Great Blue Hole are famous for their mesmerizing underwater formations and diverse marine life. Shark Ray Alley, as the name suggests, offers thrilling encounters with nurse sharks and stingrays. The Half Moon Caye Wall and Glover’s Reef are known for their spectacular coral formations and abundant species of fish. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced diver, Belize’s dive sites have something for everyone.
In terms of marine life you’ll be able to spot colorful coral formations, eagle rays, sea turtles, and an array of tropical fish species. The warm water of the Caribbean is teeming with life, including splendid coral gardens and fascinating critters.
All in all, Belize’s allure as one of the best scuba diving destinations in April is undeniable. The combination of favourable weather, world-class dive resorts, stunning dive sites, and rich marine biodiversity make it a scuba diver’s dream come true. If you are seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure, Belize in April is a destination that promises an experience of a lifetime.
Bay Islands, Honduras
Bay Islands, Honduras, stands out as one of the premier scuba diving destinations for those looking to explore the underwater world in April. This is the perfect scuba destination if you are based in the US and are looking for a frugal one-week escape.
The Bay Islands, which include Roatán, Utila, and Guanaja, offer a unique combination of favorable weather conditions, top-notch dive resorts, stunning dive sites, and a diverse range of marine life that makes it a scuba diver’s paradise during this time of the year.
April is the sweet spot for diving in the Bay Islands. The weather is mild, with warm waters and excellent visibility, making it the ideal time to explore the vibrant coral reefs and the breathtaking marine ecosystems that thrive here. The calm seas and minimal rainfall add to the allure, ensuring an uninterrupted diving experience.
When it comes to resorts, there is simply plenty of choice across the Bay Islands. Roatán, the largest of the Bay Islands, boasts a variety of world-class dive resorts such as Anthony’s Key Resort (all-inclusive) and Infinity Bay Spa & Beach Resort, offering comfortable accommodations, knowledgeable dive guides, and exceptional service.
These resorts provide the perfect base for scuba divers to embark on their underwater adventures. If you are not scuba certified yet, both resorts offer scuba certification courses, and the bay Islands are a perfect destination for beginners.
The Bay Islands are renowned for their captivating dive sites. The Roatán Marine Park, a protected area, is home to dazzling coral formations, deep walls, and an array of marine species. Utila, on the other hand, is famous for its encounters with majestic whale sharks, an awe-inspiring experience for any diver. Guanaja offers pristine, untouched dive sites that provide a sense of exploration and adventure.
One of the highlights of diving in the Bay Islands is the remarkable marine life. You can expect to see vibrant coral gardens, colorful fish, sea turtles, and a plethora of macro critters. In Utila, the chance to swim with whale sharks is an unparalleled experience. The Bay Islands offer encounters with eagle rays, reef sharks, and even the elusive seahorses, making every dive a unique and memorable experience.
All in all, the Bay Islands are the ultimate diving destination in April for literally any type of diver. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple of divers or on a family vacation (mixed divers/non-divers group).
Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos is undoubtedly one of the finest scuba diving destinations, especially in the month of April. The azure waters, balmy weather, and vibrant marine life make it a must-visit for divers.
In April, the winter chill has bid adieu, but the scorching summer heat is yet to arrive. Water temperature hovers around a comfortable 80°F, providing the perfect conditions for diving without the need for a thick wetsuit. Additionally, April tends to be less crowded compared to the peak winter season, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed diving experience.
When it comes to dive resorts, Turks and Caicos boasts some of the best in the Caribbean. Grace Bay in Providenciales is home to luxurious resorts that cater to divers’ needs, offering easy access to top-notch dive operations and incredible dive sites. Osprey Beach Hotel (PADI 5 Star dive center), and The Somerset (luxury resort) are just a few of the top-rated options if you are seeking both comfort and convenience.
The islands also offer a plethora of dive sites that cater to divers of all experience levels. The dramatic wall dives of Grand Turk, the coral-covered canyons of West Caicos, and the mesmerizing swim-throughs at French Cay are just a few of the standout spots. You’ll encounter a fascinating array of marine life, from graceful eagle rays, curious nurse sharks, and schools of colorful tropical fish. Keep an eye out for the charismatic humpback whales, which often migrate through these waters in April, making for an unforgettable bonus.
Marine biodiversity in Turks and Caicos is astounding. The crystal-clear waters provide excellent visibility, allowing you to appreciate the intricate coral formations and the teeming life that calls them home. Coral gardens are alive with vibrant sponges and anemones, while the walls are adorned with sea fans and gorgonians. It’s a paradise for macro enthusiasts as well, with critters like seahorses, nudibranchs, and cleaner shrimp hidden amongst the nooks and crannies.
All in all, Turks and Caicos in April offers an unbeatable combination of pleasant weather, world-class dive resorts, diverse dive sites, and a kaleidoscope of marine life. It’s a scuba diver’s dream come true, where every descent beneath the waves promises a breathtaking underwater adventure.
Southern Red Sea, Egypt
The Southern Red Sea is, without a doubt, one of the finest scuba diving destinations you can choose for an unforgettable underwater adventure April. If you are traveling from the US, I would suggest a minimum of two weeks.
The weather in April is exceptionally pleasant, with air temperatures averaging in the low 80s°F and water temperatures ranging from 73°F to 79°F, making for comfortable and enjoyable dives.
When it comes to dive resorts, you’ll find some of the world’s best in the Southern Red Sea. These resorts offer top-notch facilities and experienced dive professionals to cater to your every need. The warm hospitality of the local communities is an added bonus, ensuring a memorable stay.If you are looking for all inclusive diving resorts, I would recommend the Marsa Nakari Village (PADI 5 Stars Dive center in Marsa Alam) and the Marsa Shagra Village. They are both Eco resorts with their own house reefs and access to amazing diving spots.
What truly sets this region apart are the spectacular dive sites. April is the ideal time to explore renowned spots like Daedalus Reef, Elphinstone, and the Brothers Islands. These sites offer crystal-clear waters, dramatic underwater landscapes, and abundant marine life. Encounter breathtaking coral gardens teeming with vibrant, healthy corals and sponges. The Southern Red Sea is famous for its pelagic encounters, including the chance to swim with schooling hammerhead sharks, thresher sharks, and majestic manta rays. The Brothers Islands are known for their enchanting wrecks, offering divers a glimpse into history beneath the waves.
The diversity of marine life in the Southern Red Sea is astounding. You’ll encounter colorful reef fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, and parrotfish. Exploring the reefs, you may spot the elusive and captivating seahorses. If macro life is your passion, prepare to be amazed by the wealth of critters, from nudibranchs to pipefish. The coral formations are equally mesmerizing, with soft and hard corals in a kaleidoscope of shapes and colors.
In summary, Egypt’s Southern Red Sea in April is a scuba diver’s paradise. With comfortable weather, exceptional dive resorts, world-class dive sites, and a plethora of marine life, it’s a destination that promises an unforgettable and magical underwater experience. Whether you’re a novice diver or a seasoned pro, the Southern Red Sea is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Tubbataha Natural Park, the Philippines
Tubbataha National Park, nestled in the Sulu Sea of the Philippines, is undoubtedly one of the best scuba diving destinations to explore in of April.
One of the primary reasons Tubbataha is a top pick for April diving is the weather. The park basks in calm seas and pleasant temperatures during this time, creating ideal conditions for underwater adventures. The visibility in April is exceptional, often exceeding 100ft, which ensures that you won’t miss any of the mesmerizing marine life or vibrant corals that this UNESCO World Heritage site has to offer.
Unfortunately, Tubbataha can only be visited by liveaboard. I therefore recommend it to more advanced divers (50+ logged dives and advanced open water certification). Liveaboard options like the MY Resolute (formerly MY Vasco) and MV Seadoors, provide top-notch accommodations and dive facilities, ensuring that you can fully enjoy your underwater escapades.
Tubbataha boasts some of the world’s most coveted dive sites, and April presents an opportune moment to explore these underwater treasures. Delsan Wreck, Black Rock, and Shark Airport are among the highlights. You’ll be able to encounter an array of marine life, from graceful manta rays and majestic whale sharks to bustling schools of barracuda and vividly colored reef fish. The park is also a sanctuary for numerous endangered species, including hawksbill turtles and Napoleon wrasses.
Perhaps what truly distinguishes Tubbataha is its pristine coral reefs (particularly soft corals in my opinion). The park’s underwater gardens feature stunning hard and soft corals, making it a photographer’s dream. April, with its mild currents, offers ample time to capture the intricate beauty of these coral formations.
In a nutshell, Tubbataha National Park in April stands as an epitome of a perfect scuba diving destination. With its favorable weather conditions, diverse marine life, luxurious dive resorts, and world-class dive sites, it’s a slice of underwater paradise waiting to be explored by anyone seeking a memorable and awe-inspiring diving adventure.
Sipadan Island, Malaysia
Sipadan is undeniably one of the best scuba diving destinations in April, and for good reason. As the spring season sets in, the conditions in this Malaysian paradise are nothing short of exceptional for underwater enthusiasts.
Weather in April in Sipadan is just perfect. Skies are clear, and the sea is calm, ensuring a smooth and delightful diving experience. Water temperature hovers around 80-86°F, making it comfortable for divers of all levels. Plus, visibility often exceeds 100 feet, offering crystal-clear views of the underwater wonders.
Sipadan boasts an array of top-notch dive resorts that cater to a range of preferences. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious escape or a more budget-friendly option, you’ll find accommodations that suit your needs. These resorts are strategically located to offer easy access to the island’s renowned dive sites, and many offer guided dives to explore the underwater treasures. If you are looking for a luxury all inclusive resort with guaranteed Sipadan diving permits, I recommend staying at the Sipadan Water Village Resort. Not only do they organize regular trips to Sipadan, but they also have some amazing house reef diving.
Speaking of dive sites, Sipadan is renowned for its captivating underwater landscapes. Sites like Barracuda Point and Turtle Cavern teem with marine life. Witness the mesmerizing vortexes of barracudas and marvel at the intricate cave systems that host hawksbill turtles. The famous Drop Off is a sheer wall of coral that plummets into the depths, adorned with vibrant corals, schools of fish, and the occasional shark sighting.
Marine life here is simply unparalleled. In April, you can encounter schooling hammerhead sharks (I saw them only once out of several visits), manta rays, and even the occasional whale shark, adding a thrilling element to your dives. But it’s not just about the big species. Sipadan is also a macro paradise, where you can spot an array of nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, and ghost pipefish.
All in all, Sipadan’s appeal as a scuba diving destination in April lies in its perfect weather, diverse dive resorts, iconic dive sites, and the opportunity to witness an incredible array of marine life. This Malaysian gem promises an unforgettable underwater experience, making it a must-visit destination for any avid diver.
Cape Verde
Cape Verde, often dubbed as the “African Caribbean,” stands out as one of the premier scuba diving destinations in April, offering a unique and enriching experience for underwater enthusiasts. The archipelago’s allure in this spring month is multifaceted.
April in Cape Verde boasts the best conditions for scuba diving, with water temperatures averaging a comfortable 75-79°F. This temperate climate creates a haven for marine life and ensures excellent visibility, up to 30 meters or more. Divers can revel in exploring the crystal-clear waters without the discomfort of extreme temperatures, making it an excellent time to explore the Atlantic’s hidden treasures.
For the best dive resorts, Cape Verde offers an array of top-notch options. I recommend the Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort or Liquid Dive Adventures. They are both PADI 5 Star Dive Centers, perfect for total beginners or experienced divers.
In Cape Verde, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to selecting the best dive sites. Santa Maria, on Sal Island, is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and the opportunity to encounter eagle rays and turtles. For more advanced divers, the “Cave” in Boa Vista is an underwater cathedral of lava tubes, an awe-inspiring maze for exploration. Meanwhile, Sao Vicente’s “Blue Hole” offers an exhilarating vertical descent into a captivating underwater world.
The marine life in Cape Verde during April is nothing short of spectacular. Divers can witness a remarkable biodiversity that includes sea turtles, manta rays, and a wide variety of sharks, including hammerheads and nurse sharks. The nutrient-rich Atlantic waters attract these creatures, creating a thrilling experience for those who venture beneath the waves.
In conclusion, Cape Verde’s scuba diving scene in April is an irresistible opportunity for underwater enthusiasts. With comfortable water temperatures, exceptional visibility, and a wealth of dive resorts and sites, this West African paradise promises a scuba diving adventure unlike any other. Exploring the archipelago’s marine life is an awe-inspiring experience, making Cape Verde a top choice for those seeking a memorable and diverse underwater adventure in April.
Seychelles
Seychelles, nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, is undoubtedly one of the most alluring scuba diving destinations in the world, and April happens to be a particularly enticing time to explore its underwater wonders. The archipelago boasts a unique combination of factors that make it an exceptional choice for scuba enthusiasts during this month.
Seychelles are the perfect diving destination for all types of divers, from total beginners to advanced divers. It is also a great place if you are planning your honeymoon and would like to have a scuba experience, get scuba certified or just do some diving.
One of the key reasons Seychelles shines in April is its weather. The climate is typically warm and dry, with water temperatures hovering around a comfortable 82°F. This provides ideal conditions for diving, with excellent visibility and minimal rainfall, ensuring that you’ll be able to fully appreciate the vibrant marine world beneath the surface.
Seychelles offers a variety of top-notch dive resorts that cater to divers of all levels. From luxurious private island resorts to more budget-friendly options, there’s something for everyone. For an upscale all inclusive resort, I recommend the Hilton Labriz Resort And Spa in La Digue.
When it comes to the best dive sites, Seychelles doesn’t disappoint. Sites like Shark Bank, Fisherman’s Cove, and the world-famous Aldabra Atoll are teeming with life. You can encounter a rich diversity of marine creatures, from graceful manta rays and reef sharks to mesmerizing schools of colorful fish. The granite formations and coral reefs in Seychelles create a stunning underwater landscape, offering something for both macro and wide-angle photography enthusiasts.
Seychelles’ marine life is a highlight in itself. In April, with a bit of luck, you’ll be able to witness nesting turtles, as this is their peak season for laying eggs. The reefs are also alive with an array of fish species, such as angelfish, parrotfish, and butterflyfish. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive frogfish and leaf scorpionfish camouflaged amongst the coral.
All in all, Seychelles in April is a scuba diver’s paradise. The combination of perfect weather, top-tier dive resorts, incredible dive sites, and a plethora of marine life makes it an unforgettable destination. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a novice, the Seychelles archipelago offers an underwater experience like no other.
Addu Atoll, Maldives
The Addu Atoll is undoubtedly one of the most captivating scuba diving destinations in the Maldives, especially in April. This hidden gem in the southernmost part of the Maldives (Indian Ocean) offers a unique and immersive underwater experience that will leave you in awe.
Weather in Addu Atoll during April is near perfect, unlike in other parts of the Maldives across monsoon seasons. The water temperature hovers around 84°F, creating a comfortable environment for divers. With visibility often exceeding 100 feet, you’ll be treated to stunning underwater panoramas.
For a truly memorable experience, there are excellent dive resorts in Addu Atoll. The Equator Village Resort is the perfect resort if you are looking for a cheap accommodation (watch out as it is close to the airport) whereas if you are looking for a more comfortable stay you could consider the South Palm Resort offering top-notch accommodations and dive facilities. These resorts cater to divers of all skill levels and provide expert guidance for an unforgettable adventure.
Dive sites in Addu Atoll are a playground for divers. Gan Kandu, for instance, offers an exhilarating drift dive experience, with strong currents sweeping divers past vibrant coral formations and a kaleidoscope of marine life. British Loyalty Wreck, a World War II shipwreck, is another must-visit site, harboring a rich history and diverse marine inhabitants. Giant manta rays, sharks, turtles, and a profusion of reef fish are just a glimpse of what you can encounter beneath the surface.
What truly sets Addu Atoll apart is its unique marine life. In April, you’ll have the chance to witness the mesmerizing phenomenon of manta ray feeding, where these majestic creatures gather in large numbers. Manta ray season is year-round in the Addu Atoll, and higher probabilities of spotting mantas feeding are during full moon. The atoll is also a breeding ground for sea turtles, providing a rare opportunity to witness hatchlings making their way to the sea. Moreover, coral reefs teem with colorful marine life, from tiny nudibranchs to moray eels and large pelagic species.
Addu Atoll is the epitome of scuba diving perfection in April. With ideal weather, exceptional dive resorts, breathtaking dive sites, and a diverse array of marine life, it’s an underwater paradise that beckons to both novice and experienced divers. Your April adventure awaits in Addu Atoll, promising memories that will last a lifetime.
Conclusion
April definitely doesn’t disappoint in terms of scuba diving destinations. Depending on the duration of your scuba trip, you have plenty of choice between places that are fit for a weekend escapes such as the Bahamas or places that require at least two weeks (e.g. Sipadan and Seychelles).
If you are not scuba certified yet and are planning to learn while on holiday, I strongly recommend taking your certification locally before your trip. This will optimize your vacation time, making sure you won’t be wasting any time while on holiday.
If you have traveled to any other amazing places in April that I haven’t covered in my list, let me know. I am always keen to discover new scuba destinations!