February is one of the coldest months in the US and most of Europe, with relatively few hours of daylight and foggy mornings, even local diving might be unappealing for most divers. If you are tired of cold days and are not into winter sports, then a diving trip is just the right solution to cheer you up!
If you are wondering where to go scuba in February, you have come to the right place as I have it all covered for you!
Scuba Diving in February
Good news is that weather wise, February is peak season for scuba diving in many locations around the world. No matter where you are located, there are certainly some spots that are perfectly fit for a frugal scuba diving escape or for a longer vacation.
February is peak season for spotting oceanic and reef manta rays in Raja Ampat (Indonesia) or whale sharks in the South Ari Atoll (The Maldives). If you are into hammerhead sharks spotting, February is also the best time to visit the Rasdhoo Atoll (The Maldives) or The Galapagos Islands.
If you are up for a longer diving trip, February is also peak season to visit the Similan Islands (Thailand) that are open for tourism from October 15th to May 15th. A great place for some humpback whales encounters in February is Socorro Island. Located 370 miles (600 km) off the coast of Mexico, this Volcanic Island offers the best diving to spot many large pelagic species.
Keen to know all the best places to scuba dive in February? Jump to the beginning of the list.
How Did I Pick The Best Scuba Diving Destinations For February?
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 February 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. 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 (e.g. The Maldives) while still having unforgettable dives.
- 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. Many divers are not keen on diving in strong currents, I also provide you with some info on currents for each diving destination.
- Marine Life: Some scuba diving operators sometimes have a tendency 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 15 Scuba Diving Destinations for February 2024
The most amazing diving destinations for February 2024 are spread across 5 continents, making them an ideal choice for virtually any diver. From warm water diving in the Caribbean to chill water in Socorro, you will certainly find your dream destination!
North America
Bimini, Bahamas
Bimini, nestled in the tranquil waters of the Bahamas, is one of the best scuba diving destinations for a frugal escape in February. It is easily reachable either by plane (to South Bimini Airport – BIM) or by a two hour ferry service from Miami (Fort Lauderdale) with Balearia Caribbean.
February brings some of the best diving conditions in Bimini. Water temperature hovers around 75-78°F (24-26°C), making it just right for divers seeking to escape the winter chill without melting in the summer heat. Visibility during this season is also impeccable, often stretching beyond 100 feet, allowing for awe-inspiring underwater views.
When it comes to dive sites, Bimini offers plenty of choices. The “Sapona“, a sunken concrete shipwreck, is a favorite among divers for its beauty and abundant marine life. And if you’re lucky, you might encounter hammerhead sharks at the “Bull Run” site (cage diving), a truly exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers. February in Bimini also presents an opportunity to witness the amazing migration of great hammerhead sharks.
Speaking of marine life, Bimini teems with vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, nurse sharks, and even dolphins, providing underwater photographers with a smorgasbord of subjects to capture. It’s not uncommon to spot schools of Atlantic spotted dolphins, hammerheads (between January and March), bull sharks, lemon sharks, tuna, groupers and snappers.
In terms of dive shops and accommodation, I definitely recommend taking a look at the dive packages offered by Bimini Scuba Center as well as the accommodation possibilities at Bimini Big Game Club Resort and Marina, you won’t be disappointed!
All in all, Bimini in February stands as a testament to the sheer beauty and diversity of the underwater world. With ideal conditions, superb dive operators, captivating dive sites, and an abundance of marine life, Bimini unquestionably earns its place among the best scuba diving destinations for a frugal February escape.
South America
Jardines de la Reina, Cuba
PRO TIP: Beware of fake tour operators in La Havana or Jucaro offering daily trips to Jardines de la Reina. The area is only accessible by liveaboard, that you should book well in advance of your trip to Cuba.
February is an exceptional time to explore the underwater wonders of Jardines de la Reina, making it one of the finest scuba diving destinations during this season. This pristine archipelago, nestled off the southern coast of Cuba, offers a unique combination of factors that set it apart as a diver’s paradise in February.
One of the standout features of Jardines de la Reina in February is the comfortable water temperature, hovering around 78-80°F (25-27°C). This is just perfect for divers looking to escape the chilly winter elsewhere and immerse themselves in warmer waters.
In terms of marine life, Jardines de la Reina boasts an array of underwater landscapes, from colorful coral gardens to awe-inspiring walls that drop into the abyss. Shark enthusiasts will be thrilled by the presence of healthy populations of silky sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, and even elusive hammerheads (they are harder to spot though). There’s a chance to witness majestic groupers, massive tarpons, and playful turtles in their natural habitat.
When it comes to accommodation, staying on a liveaboard is the only way to go. The Jardines de la Reina is accessible by boat only from the small port town of Jucaro in the Ciego de Ávila province of Cuba, and there are very limited liveaboard options to visit this amazing destination:
- Jardines Avalon Fleet: offers 8days/7nights itineraries in February on different vessels. All Itineraries start and end in Jucaro.
- Jardines Avalon Charter: operated by the same company as the Jardines Avalon Fleet, however vessels are only available for private charters.
Given the limited availability of liveaboards, I strongly recommend booking your trip well ahead of time. If you are traveling to Cuba exclusively to scuba dive in Jardines de la Reina, I recommend booking your liveaboard trip first and only once it’s confirmed you can book your planes and hotels.
Malpelo Island, Colombia
PRO TIP: I recommend Malpelo Island exclusively to advanced open water scuba divers with a sound experience in drift diving and with more than 100 dives on their belt. Divers should also be experienced dry-suit divers. Due to its exposed position in the open ocean, weather conditions in Malpelo are unpredictable.
Malpelo Island is undoubtedly one of the best scuba diving destinations to kickstart your February underwater adventure, particularly if you are in for spotting huge schools of hammerhead sharks. Nestled in the Pacific Ocean, this remote gem offers a unique and unforgettable diving experience.
Note that February is dry season in Malpelo, although given its remote and peculiar location, the weather around the island remains quite unpredictable. Water temperatures can be rather chilly (even in dry season) and I definitely recommend a 7mm wetsuit with hoodie and gloves or a dry suit.
In terms of dive sites, Malpelo is renowned for its diverse and abundant marine life. February is the perfect time for spotting the congregation of hammerhead sharks in large numbers, forming awe-inspiring schools that dance through the blue waters. You’ll also encounter other fascinating species like silky sharks, Galapagos sharks, and, at times, whale sharks sightings are also possible. It’s a true spectacle for any underwater enthusiast.
Malpelo is located about 310 miles (500km) from Colombia’s pacific coast, and it is therefore only reachable by liveaboard. There are currently only three liveaboard operators traveling to Malpelo Island. The Sea Wolf leaves from Buenaventura harbor in Colombia, whereas the MV Yemaya and the Catamaran Inula leave respectively from Puerto Mutis and Pedregales in Panama.
If you are in for big action spotting, Malpelo Island in February is a scuba diver’s dream come true. With its dry weather, stunning underwater landscapes, and captivating marine life, it’s no wonder that this remote paradise is considered one of the best destinations for underwater exploration. So, if you’re planning a scuba diving adventure in February, look no further than Malpelo Island for an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Pacific Coast of Mexico
The Pacific Coast of Mexico is an enticing scuba diving destination for February, offering a blend of natural beauty and underwater adventures that make it a diver’s paradise. It is less well known as a scuba diving destination compared to Mexico’s Atlantic coast, but offers an equally amazing number of diving spots.
The weather is exceptionally favorable in February. While much of the northern hemisphere shivers in the throes of winter, Mexico’s Pacific coast enjoys mild temperatures and clear skies (dry season). These conditions create ideal diving conditions with comfortable water temperatures and excellent visibility, ensuring you can fully appreciate the underwater wonders.
The highlight of diving along the Pacific Coast in February is undoubtedly the plethora of exceptional dive sites. The region is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, underwater caves, and mesmerizing wall dives. Notable sites include the Socorro Islands (more on those further on in the article), where you can encounter manta rays and humpback whales, and Cabo Pulmo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with marine life. From tiny seahorses to massive whale sharks, the biodiversity here is astounding.
Speaking of marine life, February is prime time for observing several captivating species. Giant Pacific mantas and hammerhead sharks are only two of the many species you’ll be able to encounter. It’s also the season to witness humpback whales, which migrate to these waters to give birth and breed. The Pacific Coast offers a front-row seat to these incredible natural spectacles.
In terms of accommodation, I recommend staying at Cabo Pulmo Beach Resort as they have some convenient diving packages, more than 10 dive sites right in front of the resort and a world class dive center. If you are in for a more luxurious holiday, I would then suggest staying at Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort and Spa in Cabo San Lucas. Note however that this is not a dive resort, you would need to book your dives with Manta Scuba (best dive shop in Cabo San Lucas). If you would like to dive Socorro, this is only available by liveaboard. Keep reading for additional details.
In a nutshell, the lesser known Pacific Coast of Mexico is a scuba diver’s dream come true. With ideal weather conditions, outstanding dive resorts, an array of dive sites, and a mesmerizing marine ecosystem, it’s a destination that promises an unforgettable underwater adventure. It is also a perfect fit if you would like to learn how to scuba dive. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner, this coastal gem offers something for everyone beneath its azure waves.
Socorro Island, Mexico
Socorro Island is a volcanic island (last eruption was in 1993) in the Revillagigedo Islands, lying 370 miles off Mexico’s Pacific coast. The island has an overall area of 51 square miles and is the largest among the Revillagigedo Islands.
Due to the weather conditions, Socorro Island diving trips are only available from November through June. February is the perfect month to visit Socorro, particularly if you want to have higher chances of spotting humpback whales.
Water temperatures in February range between 70°F – 74°F (21-23°C) and weather conditions are mild and dry. Note that due to its peculiar position, the weather in Socorro is rather unpredictable. I strongly recommend using a drysuit or a thick wetsuit (7mm).
Socorro Island’s appeal extends to its dive sites, each with its own unique charm. The Boiler, for instance, is renowned for its encounters with giant manta rays, humpback whales, and hammerhead sharks. Roca Partida offers exhilarating drift dives alongside enormous schools of fish, while Punta Tosca beckons with its friendly dolphins and mesmerizing coral formations. The diversity of dive sites ensures that every day brings a fresh and captivating underwater adventure.
What sets Socorro Island apart is its remarkable marine life. In February, humpback whales migrate to these waters to give birth, providing an opportunity to witness their majestic displays. Hammerhead sharks, dolphins, and silky sharks also frequent the area during this time, offering thrilling encounters. The island’s thriving coral reefs teem with colorful fish and unique critters, making every dive an awe-inspiring journey into the depths of the ocean.
Socorro can only be visited by liveaboard trip. There are currently only 9 liveaboards offering itineraries in Socorro and the Revillagigedo Islands. They offer mostly 10 days / 9 nights itineraries and depart from San Jose Del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas. Both easily accessible via the La Paz International Airport (Manuel Márquez de León International Airport, LAP).
Liveaboards in Socorro can be quite busy, I therefore recommend booking your trip almost one year in advance. Particularly if you want to secure your trip on the best vessels. In terms of vessels and crew, I strongly recommend checking out Valentina, the Nautilus Belle Amie (Complimentary pre-trip photography workshop), and Rocio del Mar.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands, simply known as Galápagos, are a small archipelago of volcanic islands off Ecuador’s coast. They are one of the most sought-after scuba destinations by many divers and underwater photographers given the abundance of marine life.
February is one of the best months to dive the Galápagos due to the favorable and mild weather conditions. Water temperatures average around 76°F (24°C) and visibility is at its peak, often exceeding 100 feet (30 meters).
February is also prime time for encounters with schools of hammerhead sharks, eagle rays, and Galapagos sharks at sites like Darwin and Wolf Islands. The nutrient-rich currents attract a variety of marine species, including playful sea lions and the famed marine iguanas. Bartolome Island’s underwater landscapes are a surreal sight, with volcanic rock formations teeming with unique marine creatures.
The Galapagos Marine Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, ensures that marine life thrives here, untouched by overfishing or pollution. In February, you’ll witness a vibrant tapestry of marine species, from manta rays to whale sharks. For macro enthusiasts, Galapagos also boasts a wealth of tiny treasures, from seahorses to nudibranchs.
When planning your dive trip to the Galapagos in February, be sure to book well in advance, as this is a peak season. When it comes to accommodation, the Galapagos offers a variety of world-class options. For a luxurious stay (not only focused on scuba diving), you should consider eco-friendly luxury resorts like the Pikaia Lodge or the Galapagos Safari Camp. They not only provide sumptuous comfort but also have their own dive centers, ensuring a seamless experience. For a more scuba oriented (land-based holiday, I definitely recommend staying at Finch Bay. Alternatively, for a non-land based scuba holiday, there are currently 53 Liveaboards offering amazing itineraries in the archipelago. cause
Asia
Similan Islands, Thailand
PRO TIP: Note that due to restrictions limiting the number of divers on each dive site in the Similan Islands, I strongly recommend booking a day trip at least 2 or 3 days in advance. Diving season in the Similan Islands runs from November to April and the national park is officially open from October 15th to May 15th.
Nestled in the Andaman Sea (Thailand), the Similan Islands are an archipelago of 11 islands offering some of the most breathtaking underwater experiences for divers of all levels and interests. During February, besides the amazing coral reefs, you will be able to spot mantas, whale sharks, dolphins as well as all sorts of macro life and small critters. Top dive sites like Richelieu Rock, Elephant Head Rock, and East of Eden promise unforgettable encounters with these underwater marvels.
Water temperatures are rather warm, in the range of 82°F to 86°F (28°C – 30°C), and February is dry season in Thailand so you can expect some amazing sunny days.
Choosing where to stay can be a delightful dilemma. You can opt for a liveaboard such as The Junk (I highly recommend it and you might recognize it as it was featured in 007 – The Man With The Golden Gun), or you can opt for one of the many dive resorts located in Khao Lak.
Given that diving in the Similan Islands is only allowed from October to May, I strongly recommend you book your holiday well ahead of time (3 to 6 months should be sufficient).
Andaman Islands, India
As an alternative to the Similan Islands, you could consider India’s Andaman Islands. Andaman Islands are an archipelago of over 300 islands and islets located in the North-western Indian Ocean. They are also a very valid alternative to the Maldives in case you are on a tighter budget or would like to organize a long scuba holiday which can be extremely expensive in the Maldives.
February is the perfect month to visit the Andaman islands as the weather is dry and warm and water visibility is at its best.
Now, let’s talk about the jewels of the Andaman seas – its dive sites. Havelock Island’s “Johnny’s Gorge” is an underwater wonderland adorned with vibrant coral formations and teeming with diverse marine life. “The Wall” at Cinque Island is a sheer drop into the abyss, where pelagic species like barracuda and trevally put on a mesmerizing show. And if you’re seeking a brush with the giants of the deep, head to South Button, where sightings of graceful manta rays are almost guaranteed.
Speaking of marine life, February is prime time for encounters with some of the ocean’s most charismatic residents: dolphins, curious turtles, and the enigmatic dugong, often referred to as the “sea cow.” The Andaman seas are also home to a many species of colorful reef fish, nudibranchs, and reef sharks, providing a kaleidoscope of underwater wonders for every diver.
As for accommodations, the Andaman Islands offer a range of options to suit all budgets. Whether you prefer a cozy beachfront bungalow or a luxury resort, places like Symphony Palms, Sea Shell, and Taj Exotica have got you covered, ensuring your topside experience is as remarkable as the underwater adventures. For a more cosy and casual stay I highly recommend the Barefoot Resort at Havelock.
South Ari Atoll, The Maldives
Although I have mentioned Ari Atoll as a prime destination for the month of January, February is no different, and I really think this is one of the most unique diving destinations around the world. Additionally, in February you might have the chances of striking better deals with resorts as the New Year’s holiday season is far behind.
February in South Ari Atoll brings ideal weather conditions with warm waters and excellent visibility. The absence of the monsoon season during this month allows divers to explore the depths without worrying about turbulent currents or heavy rainfall.
When it comes to accommodation, the South Ari Atoll provides a range of luxurious and comfortable options. Whether you’re looking for overwater bungalows or beachfront villas, there’s something for every preference and budget.
These accommodations not only offer astonishing views but also easy access to the dive sites, allowing you to make the most of your time both in and out of the water. In South Ari, I always recommend staying at Mirihi Island Resort for an unforgettable barefoot luxury experience. This small island is one of the smallest luxury private resorts with overwater and beach villas. It also has one of the best house reefs in the Maldives, giving you the possibility to snorkel or dive directly from the resort’s shores.
The guys at Oceanpro Mirihi (Best Dive Center in the Maldives in 2023) are simply some of the best instructors and dive guides I have ever met. Anja and her international team do their job with passion and love for marine conservation and are always willing to go the extra mile to make sure you have an unforgettable experience. Mirihi is also one of the very few resorts in the Maldives that allows you to dive on your own with a dive buddy their house reef. You can simply pick up a tank anytime and go diving.
In terms of marine life, the South Ari Atoll is famous for encounters with manta rays and February happens to be one of the best months for witnessing these gentle giants. Additionally, South Ari Atoll is a hotspot for whale sharks year-round, but your chances of an encounter peak during this period.
The underwater landscape is generally adorned with dramatic overhangs, caves, and swim-throughs, making each dive a thrilling adventure. You can also spot colorful reef fish, turtles, and a plethora of other marine creatures. I last visited the South Ari Atoll in August 2023 and was positively impressed with corals’ re-growth.
Rasdhoo Atoll, The Maldives
If you are in for a Maldivian escape, and perhaps have already been to the Ari Atoll, a very valid alternative is the Rasdhoo Atoll.
Rasdhoo is located west of the Male’ atoll, a short 25 minutes seaplane ride. Just like for the Ari Atoll, February is the perfect month to visit Rasdhoo, owing to the amazing weather and pristine water visibility.
Speaking of marine life, Rasdhoo Atoll is a biodiversity hotspot. In February, you’ll have the privilege of encountering a fascinating array of creatures. Manta rays, schools of colorful fish, and the possibility of spotting sharks (lemon sharks, nurse, white tip and black tip reef sharks) in their natural habitat.
Most importantly, February is the right season to spot schools of scalloped hammerhead sharks in Rasdhoo (one of the very few spots in the Maldives).
If you are in for spotting hammerheads, I definitely recommend staying at Kuramathi Maldives. They currently offer 3 weekly dives at the Hammerhead Shark Point on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Note that this is an early morning dive that i recommend only to experienced divers. You should have at least an advanced open water certification with deep dive experience.
North Sulawesi, Indonesia
If you are off for a more remote and wild destination, you should definitely plan a scuba holiday in North Sulawesi. This hidden gem, nestled in the heart of the Coral Triangle, boasts ideal conditions during February, making it a prime time to embark on an underwater adventure.
North Sulawesi offers the perfect diving haven for divers of all levels. It is also an ideal destination to learn how to scuba dive as there are many dive sites without currents. If you are into macro underwater photography, then North Sulawesi should definitely be on your bucket list. The amount of hard and soft corals in North Sulawesi is simply impressive!
When it comes to dive sites, North Sulawesi is home to some of the most awe-inspiring underwater landscapes you’ll ever encounter. Bunaken National Park, just off the coast of Manado, offers sheer drop-offs, vibrant coral walls, and an abundance of marine life. You can expect to spot everything from graceful sea turtles (literally hundreds of them) to schools of barracuda and colorful reef fish. For macro enthusiasts, the Lembeh Strait is a paradise for critter hunting. Frogfish, pygmy seahorses, and rare nudibranchs are just some of the intriguing creatures you can observe in this unique underwater world.
In terms of accommodation, I recommend staying at Gangga Island Resort and Spa for their amazing dive center equipped with underwater photography stations, or at Murex Bangka Dive Resort.
PRO TIP: When traveling to Indonesia in general, I recommend contacting resorts and dive shops before booking your trip asking to confirm which services are available (e.g. night dives, nitrox, scuba instructor on site). Tourism in the region was hit hardly by Covid-19 and some touristic facilisites are still recovering (their websites might be showing services that are temporarily unavailable).
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
February is an exceptional time to explore the underwater wonders of Raja Ampat, making it a top-notch scuba diving destination. You can also combine Raja Ampat with North Sulawesi if you have enough time (I recommend a minimum of 20 days due to the long commutes in Indonesia). Raja Ampat is a large archipelago nestled within the Coral Triangle, a region renowned for its astonishing marine biodiversity.
Weather conditions in February in Raja Ampat are perfect for diving. While some other dive destinations might experience rough seas or unpredictable conditions during this month, Raja Ampat tends to remain calm, offering ideal diving conditions. The water temperature hovers around 84°F (29°C), making it comfortable for extended dives. February is also one of the few months in the year in which you will be able to travel to Misool, in the southern part of Raja Ampat.
The real magic, however, lies beneath the surface. Raja Ampat boasts some of the most breathtaking dive sites globally, like Misool’s Boo Windows and Batu Lima. In February, these sites are teeming with life. It’s a prime time for spotting manta rays, hammerhead sharks, and pygmy seahorses. The coral reefs, often referred to as the “Amazon of the Seas,” are at their prime, displaying vibrant colors and surreal formations.
What truly sets Raja Ampat apart from other diving destinations is the sheer diversity of marine life. The archipelago is home to 1,700 types of fish, 700 kinds of molluscs and close to 30 marine mammals. From tiny, intricate critters to massive pelagics, you’ll encounter it all. Prepare to be mesmerized by the kaleidoscope of fish species, including angelfish, parrotfish, and nudibranchs. Schools of barracuda and trevally provide thrilling spectacle, and if you’re lucky, you might spot the elusive wobbegong shark.
In terms of accommodations, I can definitely recommend staying in Wai Resort if you are planning to visit the northern part of Raja Ampat. Wai Resort is located on a private island and was fully renewed in 2022/2023. It has only 9 large luxury bungalows and it’s one of the very few resorts in Raja Ampat that has white sandy beaches irrespective of low or high tide. The resort is managed by Martina and Edoardo, two veterans of scuba diving tourism in Indonesia. Scuba Diving at Wai is top notch with several manta cleaning stations right at the edges of the Island. The destination is also ideal for relatively large groups of divers who would like to rent the whole island. If you are planning to visit the southern part of Raja Ampat (I highly recommend it), the best dive resort is Misool Eco Resort, a secluded private Island and true paradise.
Note that Resorts in Raja Ampat are all relatively small, particularly in the Southern part, and get easily booked by large diving groups. I recommend organizing your trip at least 6 months in advance to get better chances of securing a spot in one of the resorts.
Africa
Mafia Island, Tanzania
Mafia Island, nestled off the Tanzanian coast in the Indian Ocean, is a true divers’paradise. The island is renowned for its uncrowded, pristine waters and offers an unparalleled scuba diving experience. February is the perfect month to visit Mafia Island, owing to the favorable weather conditions both above and below th esurface.
February is also the perfect month in case you would like to combine a trip to Mafia Island with a trip to Zanzibar.
Mafia Island is blessed with an array of captivating sites. Perhaps the most famous is Chole Bay, home to a stunning variety of coral formations and vibrant marine life. But don’t miss out on the depths of Kinasi Pass, where you can encounter schools of barracuda, eagle rays, and even the occasional whale shark if you’re lucky. For wreck enthusiasts, the sunken ship MV Kisiti offers an eerie yet enthralling experience. The marine life here is a true spectacle. Expect to swim alongside manta rays, playful dolphins, and the occasional elusive dugong. February is also a prime time for spotting humpback whales as they migrate through the region.
As for accommodations, you’ll find a range of options from eco-friendly beachfront bungalows to luxurious resorts. Besides Kinasi Lodge and Mafia Island Lodge, you can consider Dive Planet Mafia Island, a PADI 5 stars resort freshly established in 2022.
Oceania
Chuuk Lagoon, Federated States of Micronesia
PRO TIP: Although there are many dive sites in Chuuk Lagoon that are suitable for newly certified divers, most wrecks lie at a depth of 100-130ft (limit of recreational diving). You should therefore have at least the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Certification, ideally with the Deep Specialty and with some experience in conducting deep dives. Chuuk lagoon is best explored via liveaboard, please be mindful of the specific requirements of each single liveaboard operator.
Chuuk Lagoon is undoubtedly one of the best scuba diving destinations to explore in February. This remote paradise in the Pacific offers a scuba experience like no other.
The weather in February is typically dry and pleasant, with calm seas and comfortable temperatures, making underwater visibility exceptional. This time of year is also known for having fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the dive sites with more tranquility.
IN terms of dive sites, Chuuk Lagoon is renowned for its incredible wreck diving. The lagoon is a graveyard of World War II ships and planes, offering a unique opportunity to explore history while underwater. Some must-visit sites include the Fujikawa Maru, the San Francisco Maru, and the Hoki Maru, each with its own fascinating story and marine life to discover.
Speaking of marine life, Chuuk’s waters are teeming with diverse species. While exploring the wrecks, you might encounter schools of colorful fish, including butterflyfish, angelfish, and clownfish. Keep an eye out for graceful eagle rays, reef sharks, and even the occasional turtle gliding by. For macro enthusiasts, there are also plenty of nudibranchs, shrimp, and crabs hiding among the wreck’s nooks and crannies.
In terms of accommodation, Chuuk lagoon is not a luxury diving destination. It is rather for travelers whose main scope is scuba diving. If you are not into liveaboard diving, I recommend staying at the Truk Stop Hotel that also has a tech-diving level dive shop.
Alternatively, I recommend the following two liveaboards. They are definitely not the ultimate luxury experience, but in terms of diving they offer the best you can have:
- Palau Aggressor II, Micronesia: offers 8 days/ 7 nights itineraries starting and ending in Koror.
- Pacific Master, Micronesia: offers 7 nights itineraries starting and ending in Weno.
Europe
Iceland
Iceland, in February, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of scuba diving, but it’s a hidden gem for underwater enthusiasts. The unique combination of ice-cold waters and extraordinary underwater landscapes make Iceland one of the best scuba diving destinations for February.
First and foremost, February is prime time for diving in Iceland due to the favorable water conditions. The frigid temperatures are ideal for visibility, allowing you to explore the mesmerizing underwater world with exceptional clarity. It’s a surreal experience to dive among ice formations and witness the ethereal beauty of the Silfra Fissure, a world-famous site located in Thingvellir National Park. The crystalline waters of Silfra offer a visibility of up to 100 meters, making it a must-visit dive site.
The marine life in Icelandic waters is surprisingly diverse in February. While you won’t encounter the colorful coral reefs of tropical destinations, you will witness an abundance of marine species unique to the North Atlantic. Keep an eye out for playful seals, sea anemones, and the elusive wolf fish. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a majestic orca or humpback whale cruising through the icy depths.
For those who want to immerse themselves fully in the Icelandic diving experience, staying near the Reykjavik area is a great choice. This puts you in proximity to not only the capital city but also a variety of dive sites along the coastline. If you’re seeking a more remote adventure, consider venturing to the northern town of Akureyri, which offers access to exceptional Arctic diving.
If you are planning to stay in Reykjavik, the “go-to” dive shop is DIVE.IS. They offer diving and snorkeling excursions (among others) to Silfra, Nesgja, and Strytan (only place known to man where recreational divers can reach geothermal chimneys). If instead you are planning to go to Akureyri, I recommend checking out the Strýtan Dive Center.
