January is not only the start of a bright new year. For most of us living in the Northern Hemisphere, this month is also associated with dark hours, cold weather, and ending of the December Holidays Season.
On the bright side of things, daylength in gradually starting to increase again (on average 1 minute per day in New York), winter sports season is at its peak, and most importantly there are several great places around the world where you can escape for an amazing scuba diving trip!
If you’re wondering where to go scuba in January, you have landed in the right place, as I have it all covered for you!
Scuba Diving in January
Good news is that weather wise, January 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 longer vacation.
Think of diving the crystal-clear waters of the Mexican Cenotes, or vibrant Caribbean reefs. If you are not short on time, January is also one of the best months for spotting Whale Sharks in the Maldives or for some terrific ice diving in Austria or Switzerland.
If you are planning to go on a diving vacation in January, I suggest booking well in advance (3 to 6 months) to get the best deals. So don’t wait further and read through my post for some inspiration.
How Did I Pick the Best Scuba Diving Destinations for January?
As a diver and travel addicted, 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 January 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 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.
- 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 10 Scuba Diving Destinations for January 2024
The most amazing diving destinations for January 2024 are spread across 5 continents, making them an ideal choice for virtually any diver. From ice diving in Europe to Cenotes diving in Mexico and whale shark spotting in Asia, there are plenty of places to choose from.
Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
Scuba diving in Mexican cenotes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience every diver should have. No matter if you are into cave diving or not, there are plenty of cenotes out there and you can pick up the ones that offer open water like conditions. Trust me, cenotes diving is so magical that you will never forget it and will want to go back to the Yucatan Peninsula every other year.
Although cenotes in the Yucatan peninsula can be visited throughout the year, with relatively constant excellent visibility and water conditions, January is one of the best months to plan your visit.
It is in the middle of the dry season and right after the Christmas and New Year’s holiday seasons therefore the mainstream cities of Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos tend to be less crowded. Dive shops also tend to be relatively less busy after the holiday period, meaning that you won’t find overcrowded cenotes and will have plenty of opportunities to have some relaxed dives.
When it comes to dive centers in the Yucatan Peninsula, there are certainly some great ones. To mention a few, Dressel Divers (no introduction needed) some amazing daily cenotes excursions both in Cozumel and in Playa del Carmen. Alternatively, KooX Diving also runs daily cenotes excursions from Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Puerto Aventuras.
If you are looking for a more personalized experience, I recommend instead to book a private cenote guide. This ensures you will be able to enjoy the cenotes of your choice at their fullest while also being able to tailor your trip to your needs. When it comes to private guides, I can only recommend The Cenote Guy. Aydin Dinc (Founder and Manager) has made a lifestyle out of Cenote and Cave Diving and passionately runs his business to cater for each diver’s needs. Aydin offers cenote diving in Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Dos Ojos and can organize visits in the following cenotes (standalone or some combination according to your preferences and availabilities):
- El Edén
- Taj Maha
- Kukulkán
- Little Brother
- The Pit
- Batcave
- Barbie Line
- Dreamgate
- Zapote
- Kinha
- Angelita
- Casa cenote
- Carwash
- Calavera
- Maravilla
- Nicte ha
In terms of accommodation for your scuba diving holiday in the Yucatan peninsula, I have three recommendations. The Iberostar Dive Resort in Cozumel (Tucan or Quetzal) and in Playa del Carmen are particularly handy if you would like to stay in a resort that has a cooperation agreement with a dive shop. These resorts have a cooperation agreement with Dressel Divers, making it a perfect match in terms of service and quality of your stay and diving. If instead you prefer to organize your trip with a private guide and don’t need a hotel with a dive centre, I would recommend The Fives Downtown Hotel in Playa del Carmen.
Bahamas
If you don’t have enough time for a fully fledged scuba holiday in Mexico, the Bahamas are a perfect solution for a shorter scuba diving trip. January is the perfect month to scuba dive in the Bahamas. It’s the peak of the dry season, and in this time of the year you will have the opportunity to spot many interesting shark species such as Tiger sharks in the famous Tiger Beach as well as Hammerhead sharks at Bimini.
When thinking of a scuba trip in the Bahamas I cannot avoid mentioning Cristina Zenato. Also known as the “Shark Whisperer”, Cristina is a world class underwater explorer and marine conservationist. She has dedicated her whole life to scuba diving, exploration and shark conservation and currently organizes shark handling experiences and courses (and much more) in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, The Bahamas. If you are planning a scuba trip to The Bahamas, diving with Cristina or her husband and business partner Kewin is a must – follow Cristina and Kewin on Insagram and decide by yourself.
If you are planning a trip to Nassau, one of the best diving operators on the Island is Stuart Cove’s. They organize a full range of PADI courses up to Divemaster and some amazing shark diving as well. Check out their shark specialty awareness course and their shark feeder program.
In terms of accommodation I recommend the all-inclusive Resort Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham or Pelican Bay Hotel (walking distance from Cristina’s dive operation) if you are planning to stay in Freeport, or Sandals Royal Bahamian if you are planning to stay in Nassau. Note that Sandals Royal Bahamian offers complimentary diving (2 dives per day for qualified scuba divers), making it a perfect resort to explore the Bahamas’ world class reefs, walls, and wrecks.
Crystal River, Florida, USA
If you are looking for another close-by destination, where no long hours on the plane are needed, you might want to organize a frugal scuba escape in Florida. January is the perfect month to visit Florida as it is in the middle of the dry season and temperatures are still relatively warm with averages ranging from 62°F to 74°F (17-23°C).
For an easy frugal escape, the Florida Keys are always an evergreen solution. Check out my ultimate guide to scuba diving the Florida Keys in which I review the best dive spots, dive shops, as well as some accommodation solutions.
As an alternative to the Florida Keys, you could consider spending a couple of days (or more) in Crystal River which is a short 1h30 drive Northwest of Orlando.
Crystal River is a coastal city in Western Florida with quite some amazing dive sites. In particular, Kings Bay, which is fed by natural springs hosts the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge home to manatees all year round. This is a perfect destination for a family trip, and for divers and non-divers alike. Most dive shops organize combined scuba and snorkelling excursions making it a perfect place if you have non diving kids or partner.
When it comes to dive shops in the Crystal River Area, I recommend checking out American Pro Diving Center and in particular their Crystal River Dive and Snorkel Manatee Tour Combo which starts with a morning snorkelling with manatees (water temperature is 72°F year round) followed by a 30ft dive into crystal river and in the Kingspring cavern where you will be able to observe plenty of fish and aquatic life such as snapper, crabs, and even fossils.
If you are planning to have a longer stay in Crystal River, Kings Bay offer many more dive sites including opportunities for some amazing night diving and cave diving.
When it comes to accommodation, if you are not planning to drive a lot, I definitely recommend staying at the Holiday Inn Express Crystal River which is 1.4 miles away from the American Pro Diving Center. If you prefer a walking distance solution, you might want to consider Hampton Inn Crystal River which is 0.9 miles away from the Diving Center or a short 15 minutes walk.
Cayman Islands
Not so far from Florida and the Bahamas, you could think of a diving holiday escape in the Cayman Islands. January is the perfect month of the year to visit these Caribbean islands, as it is the peak of the dry season with very little to no rainfall, with still warm water (average water temperature of 81°F) and no strong currents.
Note that the Cayman Islands are within the hurricane belt, and I therefore do not recommend traveling to this destination in the months between June and November. Sea and generally weather conditions can be quite rough in these months, also affecting scuba diving operations.
In terms of marine life, the Cayman Islands are among the best places worldwide to spot stingrays, small critters, sea turtles and colourful Caribbean reef fish. Sightings are almost guaranteed throughout the year, particularly in some of the most famous sites such as Stingray City, Babylon’s Pinnacle, Wilderness Wall and Bloody Bay Wall. The Cayman islands are also an amazing location for some nice wreck dives. If you are planning a trip, you should definitely dive the Captain Keith Tibbets and Kittiwake shipwrecks.
When it comes to diving, I definitely recommend booking a dive resort in the Cayman Islands. This will avoid you spending some time stuck in local traffic and will optimize your diving time. My favourite resorts are the Compass Point Dive Resort in Grand Cayman and the Little Cayman Beach Resort in Little Cayman. They both have some dive and stay packages and offer at least three dives on a daily basis (depending on weather conditions).
Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
With Fernando de Noronha, we are starting with a list of destinations that require more than one week to be visited (one week is only enough if you exclude travel times). These volcanic islands lie 215 miles off the Brazilian coast and has been declared a National Marine Park since 1988 and UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. It consists of 21 islands, and is named after the largest island (i.e. Fernando de Noronha).
January is somewhat off-season for Fernando de Noronha, but it is still the best time to travel to the archipelago if you are planning a scuba trip. In fact, although the rainy season runs from January through August, January is most often than not still quite a dry month (rainfalls start to be more frequent towards March).
Note that only a rather limited amount of visitors are allowed to visit Fernando de Noronha at any given time, I therefore highly recommend booking your holiday well ahead of time.
The archipelago has a terrific scenario when it comes to diving, and you will have plenty of opportunities to do some cave, wreck, drift, wall and reef diving. In your dives you will typically encounter reef sharks, sea turtles, barracudas, stingrays, mantas, eagle rays and colourful reef fish. If you are lucky enough you could even encounter or hear spinner dolphins (there is a resident colony living in the archipelago).
Easter Island, Chile
If you are looking for a destination that is off the beaten track and hard to reach, then the Easter Island should definitely be on your list. January is the perfect month to visit Easter Island as it is one of the warmer months of the year (Summer runs from January to March).
Although Easter Island is mostly know for its mysterious wonders on the surface, the so called Moai, it is also a great scuba diving destination. I do recommend it even if you have a non-diving partner as there are plenty of activities to do at the surface. You should however be aware that water temperatures are constant around 65°F or 18°C, I therefore recommend using a thick wetsuit (5mm and up, depending on your preferences) or even a dry suit.
There are only two dive centres on Easter Island, Mike Rapu and Orca Diving Center. Mike Rapu is a 5 stars PADI Instructor Development Center, and Orca Diving offers both PADI and CMAS courses. They are both located in Hanga Roa, which is the main city in Easter Island.
Both dive centres organize excursions to the best dive sites around Easter Island. Moai Sumergido, where you will have the opportunity to take a look at a Moai statue underwater, Los Motu, Catedral, Jardin and Omohi. In terms of marine life, Easter Island offers infinite endemic species that you won’t be able to observe anywhere else around the world: butterfly fish, dwarf angelfish and slipper lobsters.
In terms of accommodation, I recommend the Hare Nua Boutique Hotel, and or the Hotel Ohana which is a bit further away from Hanga Roa’s city centre but offers spectacular views.
Summer season can be quite busy on Easter Island, if you are considering a trip in January, I suggest booking around 3 months in advance.
French Polynesia
French Polynesia emerges as an exceptional scuba diving heaven, particularly in the month of January. In this time of year, the weather is pleasantly warm, and the water visibility reaches its peak, making it an ideal period for underwater exploration.
If you are seeking an unforgettable diving experience, a myriad of exquisite dive resorts and dive shops are scattered across the main islands (Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Marquesas, Huahine, Tikehau). From luxurious resorts offering personalized diving packages to more budget-friendly options, there’s something for every taste.
French Polynesia is renowned for its astonishing dive sites that cater to divers of all skill levels. Among the most celebrated sites is Rangiroa’s Tiputa Pass, where you can marvel at the captivating dance of dolphins and the graceful ballet of manta rays. The Fakarava Atoll is another gem, showcasing the impressive shark population that frequents its currents. The biodiversity here is astounding, with coral gardens teeming with colorful fish species.
January is also a prime time to witness an array of marine life. Expect to encounter majestic humpback whales as they migrate through these waters, showcasing their awe-inspiring acrobatics. Hammerhead sharks, eagle rays, and various species of turtles grace the underwater stage, creating an immersive spectacle for diving enthusiasts.
To fully savor this underwater paradise, selecting the right accommodation is crucial. From overwater bungalows to charming beachfront lodges, French Polynesia offers an array of lodging options to suit every taste. Opting for a stay near your chosen dive sites will ensure easy access to the captivating underwater world.
If you are planning to do some island hopping, I recommend staying at Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts in Tikehau and Le Maitai in Bora Bora. They both have great dive shops with super committed staff.
In a nutshell, French Polynesia in January is a scuba diver’s dream come true. With its numerous dive sites, rich marine life, top-notch dive resorts, and comfortable weather, it offers an unforgettable underwater escapade that combines adventure and luxury in perfect harmony. So, if you’re looking to kick-start your year with an extraordinary diving adventure, French Polynesia should undoubtedly be at the top of your list.
Tanzania
Tanzania stands out as a top-tier scuba diving paradise, particularly in January. With its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, this East African gem offers an unrivaled underwater experience. The allure of Tanzania as a January scuba destination lies in its optimal weather conditions, boasting warm water temperatures and great visibility. This time of year sees calm seas and minimal rainfall, creating the perfect setting for underwater exploration.
If you are looking for an unforgettable scuba adventure, Tanzania offers many of top-notch dive resorts and shops that cater to both beginners and seasoned divers. The well-trained staff and state-of-the-art equipment ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. The blend of professional expertise and warm Tanzanian hospitality adds an extra layer of charm to the diving journey.
Divers flock to Tanzania primarily for its remarkable dive sites, each a treasure trove of marine wonders. Pemba Island, for instance, is renowned for its pristine coral reefs teeming with a diverse array of colorful fish species. The Mafia Island Marine Park, a UNESCO-designated site, presents an opportunity to swim alongside gentle whale sharks and playful dolphins, offering a truly magical encounter with the marine world. As you descend into the depths, you might come across vibrant coral formations and the elusive dugongs, making each dive a unique and awe-inspiring experience.
When it comes to accommodations, Tanzania leaves no room for disappointment. From luxurious beachfront resorts to charming eco-lodges, there is a diverse range of options to suit various preferences and budgets. These accommodations not only provide a comfortable stay but also grant easy access to the finest diving sites, ensuring a seamless and fulfilling underwater escapade.
If you are planning to go to Mafia Island for some whale sharks spotting you should definitely book some days at Kitu Kiblu. If instead you are planning a luxury escape I recommend staying at the Meliá Serengeti Lodge in Zanzibar.
In essence, Tanzania in January is a scuba diver’s dream come true, offering a remarkable blend of excellent weather, remarkable marine life, and exceptional diving facilities. Whether you are a novice seeking to dip your toes into this captivating world or an experienced diver in search of new thrills, Tanzania promises an enchanting underwater journey that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Palau
Palau emerges as an undisputed gem for scuba diving enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure. This paradise in the pacific ocean boasts an array of reasons that position it among the best diving destinations for diving in January. The combination of optimal weather conditions and visibility, along with the rich marine biodiversity, makes Palau an irresistible choice.
What truly sets Palau apart are its unparalleled dive sites. The array of sites encompasses stunning coral reefs, dramatic drop-offs, and unique underwater caves. These sites host a diverse marine ecosystem, making encounters with vibrant coral formations, pelagic species, and mesmerizing underwater landscapes a common occurrence. You can anticipate close encounters with charismatic marine life, including manta rays, sharks (grey reef sharks, black tip and white tip), and an abundance of colorful fish species.
Among the must-visit dive sites in Palau is the legendary Blue Corner. This site offers thrilling drift dives where divers can be swept along by gentle currents while observing the kaleidoscope of marine life that populates the area. The German Channel is another notable spot, renowned for its manta ray cleaning station—a surreal spectacle that divers can witness up close.
For those seeking a comfortable and convenient stay, Palau presents an array of lodging options that cater to various budgets and preferences. From luxurious resorts (I recommend the Palau Pacific Resort in Koror) to cozy guesthouses (check out Antelope in Koror), the accommodation choices ensure that divers have a relaxing haven to return to after their underwater escapades.
In essence, Palau’s allure as a scuba diving haven during January is undeniable. The harmonious blend of idyllic weather conditions, exceptional dive facilities, diverse underwater landscapes, and captivating marine life solidify its reputation as a top-tier destination for scuba enthusiasts. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a novice eager to explore the underwater realm, Palau promises an unparalleled adventure that will leave you with indelible memories and a yearning to return for more.
Ari Atoll, The Maldives
For the best scuba diving experience, the South Ari Atoll boasts a range of exceptional dive resorts and dive shops that cater to divers of all skill levels. These luxury resorts offer top-notch equipment, professional guides, and safety measures, ensuring that divers can explore the Maldives’ underwater world with confidence and peace of mind.
Diving enthusiasts will also be delighted by the array of remarkable dive sites that the South Ari Atoll has to offer. From hard coral gardens teeming with life to thrilling channels where encounters with majestic manta rays and numerous whale sharks are virtually guaranteed, the variety is simply astounding. The marine life diversity here is awe-inspiring, with colorful reef fish, turtles, lemon sharks, nurse sharks, and fascinating macro critters awaiting discovery at every turn.
When it comes to accommodations, 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. When it comes to the South Ari Atoll, 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 whole Ari Atoll, giving you the possibility to snorkel or dive directly from your overwater bungalow. The guys at Oceanpro Mirihi are simply some of the best instructors and dive guides I have ever met. They 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.
In conclusion, the South Ari Atoll stands out as an exceptional scuba diving destination for January. Its favorable weather conditions, remarkable dive sites, abundant marine life, and top-notch accommodations make it a true haven for diving enthusiasts. Whether you’re an experienced diver or just starting your underwater journey, the South Ari Atoll promises an unforgettable and enriching experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
If you are planning a trip to the Maldives, I suggest checking out my other blog posts covering this amazing Island Nation:
