The heart-warming Pixar film ‘Finding Dory’ – the sequel to ‘Finding Nemo’ – hit cinemas last month, evoking playful and adventurous souls to exploring an underwater world. Voted by 93 million Booking.com users, here are he world’s top diving destinations you should have been once in your lifetime.
#1 Tulamben, Indonesia
Tulamben is a picturesque fishing village off the north-east coast of Bali and has quickly become known as one of the world’s best diving spots since a US cargo ship sunk there over 60 years ago. Tulamben is an ideal place for first time divers with plenty of diving schools around and if you don’t fancy diving, snorkelers can explore the wreckages and soak up the tropical sun.
Set amongst tropical gardens you will find one of top accommodation picks in Tulamben, the Tulamben & Spa. This beachfront diving resort boasts sweeping views of the ocean which you can enjoy from the swimming pool. Kick back with a cocktail or visit the hotel spa for a soothing massage. This is the ultimate hotel for diving and relaxing, you will never want to leave.
#2 Semporna, Sabah, Malaysia
This quiet hideaway is the go to destination for diving enthusiasts as it has easy access to many amazing diving spots, as well as being a great location in itself for exploring beneath the waves and soaking up island life. Semporna also has easy access from Kuala Lumpa, so if you want to combine your diving holiday with getting a taste for Malaysia’s buzzing capital then Semporna is the place for you.
With its own private beach and fantastic water sports facilites it is easy to see why guests have rated the Scuba Tiger Semporna as ‘fabulous’. The quiet location of the hotel make it a perfect place to relax whilst also being close to the top diving spots. At the hotel you will find a range of rooms from beautiful sea front villas to four bed dormitories making it suitable for all diving enthusastics.
#3 Koror, Palau
The top reasons for visiting Koror are diving, snorkeling and reef diving, proving that divers love this island, here you can dive amongst coral reefs, clams and beautiful fish. As well as the crystal clear waters of the ocean there is also an amazing choice of restaurants and lovely museums to visit during your stay. The Rock Islands are also only a quick boat ride away for when you fancy exploring a new site.
This humble but highly rated Ms Pinetrees Hostel offers both private and shared dorms making it a great option for those after a diving holiday on a budget. The staff at this hostel are friendly and are always on hand to answer your diving questions. Located within walking distance to the sea, shops and museums meaning so you can get the best out of your stay.
#4 Avatoru, French Polynesia
With an abundance of diving centers it is no wonder the stunning waters of Avatoru are rated highly by divers who visit from afar to see the great variety of marine life, and if you’re feeling brave you can even swim with sharks. The French Polynesia is as close as you can get to paradise with stunning clear waters and white beaches making it a perfect for a romantic couples diving holiday. Make sure to visit the nearby lagoon during your stay.
The gorgeous Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa is bordered by a white sandy beach and a turquoise lagoon. This hotel has a touch of Tahitian style with ten over-water bungalows as well as villas with their own private pools. This hotel offers many excursions including scuba diving, drift snorkeling, tours of the Blue Lagoon and visits to the Pink Sand Beaches. Paradise is only a plane ride away.
#5 Bunaken, Sulawesi Utara, Indonesia
Visit this coral-fringed island for a tropical escape where you will be surrounded by friendly locals and have access to incredible diving facilities at Bunaken National Marine Park. With over 3,000 different species of fish to see, world-class walls to explore and the chance to swim with turtles it is a diver’s paradise. If you fancy spending some time on land make sure to visit the Manado Tua volcano for stunning views over the Island.
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Sitting on Liang Beach, lies the eco-friendly, Bunaken Island Dive Resort with traditional Minahasa-style bungalows with hammocks, views of the crystal clear lagoon and rich coral reefs for you to explore. Experience the Indonesian culture by enjoying their traditional meals whilst overlooking the tropical landscape and golden beach.
http://www.booking.com/hotel/id/bunaken-island-resort.en-gb.html
Special thanks: Booking.com