The 10 Best Spots for Scuba Diving in Antigua

The 10 Best Spots for Scuba Diving in Antigua

Antigua, with its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, is not just a haven for sunbathers but also a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. There are many good Antigua diving sites for novice and experienced divers and temperatures average between 75-85°F (24-29°C) all year, perfect for undersea activities. We’ll explore the 10 best spots in and around the island. Whether you’re looking to explore vibrant coral reefs or mysterious shipwrecks, Antigua has something to offer every underwater adventurer.

#1. Cades Reef

Experience Level: Beginners to Advanced
Permit Required: No

Cades Reef is one of Antigua’s most renowned diving spots, stretching over two miles along the southwestern coast. This vibrant reef is teeming with marine life, including colorful corals, sponges, and a vast array of tropical fish. The shallow depths make it ideal for beginners, while the outer edges offer more challenging dives for advanced divers.

#2. Sunken Rock

Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Permit Required: No

Located near English Harbour, Sunken Rock is famous for its dramatic underwater landscapes, especially the rock that gives the locale its name. Divers can explore towering rock formations, deep crevices, and an abundance of marine species. Due to its unpredictable currents and depths reaching up to 100 feet, this site is recommended for intermediate to advanced divers.

#3. Carlisle Bay Marine Park

Experience Level: Beginners
Permit Required: No

This sheltered bay on Antigua’s southwest coast is a haven for underwater photographers and beginner divers. The calm, shallow waters boast vibrant coral formations teeming with colourful fish life. It’s also a great spot for night diving.

#4. Wreck of the Andes

Experience Level: Advanced
Permit Required: Yes (Special Permit)

For those intrigued by history and mystery, the Wreck of the Andes is a must-visit. This 19th-century merchant ship rests at a depth of 30-110 feet, offering a captivating dive for advanced divers. Exploring the wreck requires a special permit, highlighting the need for careful planning and adherence to regulations.

#5. Pillars of Hercules

Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Permit Required: No

Situated near the entrance of English Harbour, the Pillars of Hercules is known for its striking limestone formations above and below the water. Divers can witness a rich tapestry of marine life, including rays, turtles, and barracudas. The site’s unique geological features provide an awe-inspiring backdrop for underwater exploration.

#6. Captain’s Anchor

Experience Level: Beginners to Intermediate
Permit Required: No

A scuba diving Antigua site best known for a large anchor at a depth of 60 feet from a 19th-century ship, Captain’s Anchor is also regarded as an excellent beginner’s dive and a good place to find a variety of exotic marine life, especially Green and Hawksbill turtles plus Moray eels. The site’s sand channels and ridges are perfect places for underwater photography of sea creatures, especially during the turtle mating season.

#7. Shirley Heights Reef

Experience Level: Beginner to Advanced
Permit Required: No

Just off the coast of English Harbour lies Shirley Heights Reef, a vibrant coral haven adorned with cannons and anchors, remnants of Antigua’s rich naval history. Explore the fascinating underwater archaeology while encountering friendly angelfish, curious octopus, and schools of shimmering fish.

#8. Black’s Point

Experience Level: Advanced
Permit Required: No

Black’s Point, located off the southern coast, is a thrilling dive site for advanced divers. The area features steep drop-offs, underwater caves, and strong currents, making it an exhilarating adventure. The site is rich in marine biodiversity, including schools of tropical fish and occasional sightings of sharks.

#9. Jettia’s Wreck

Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Permit Required: No

Jettia’s Wreck is another fascinating dive site near the northern coast of Antigua. This sunken freighter rests at a depth of 60 feet and is adorned with a variety of corals and sponges. The wreck attracts numerous fish species, making it a vibrant and colourful dive for intermediate and advanced divers.

#10. Barracuda Reef

Experience Level: Intermediate
Permit Required: No

Barracuda Reef is renowned for its thriving marine ecosystem and excellent visibility. Located near the western coast, this reef is suitable for intermediate divers. As the name suggests, divers can expect to encounter barracudas, along with a diverse array of other marine life, such as parrotfish, angelfish, and moray eels.

Antigua Diving Shows Why It’s Best-in-Class

Is Antigua a top-tier diving destination? Without a doubt! With an array of dive sites suited to every level of expertise, Antigua truly shines as a premier Caribbean diving locale. The island’s unique fusion of vibrant coral reefs, historical shipwrecks, and diverse marine life sets it apart for scuba aficionados.

Whether you’re a novice eager to begin your underwater journey or a seasoned diver in search of new challenges, Antigua’s diving scene promises an unforgettable array of experiences. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover why this island paradise is a must-visit for discerning undersea adventurers. Book your vacation rental now for your next diving trip!