Diving In Playa Flamingo
Diving in Playa Flamingo is really special for us. It’s not where our passion for scuba diving started, but it’s the place that fueled our desire to keep diving as much as possible. The idea for Good Vibes Dive Crew was created from experiencing the positive energy of the dive community that we’ve been fortunate enough to get to know so well.
We have a condo in Playa Flamingo and visit the area often, and every trip offers something new and exciting beneath the surface. The waters here are home to some of Costa Rica’s best diving, with the Las Catalinas Islands offering so much biodiversity. Whether it’s watching eagle rays glide by or catching sight of an unworldly octopus doing its thing, there’s always something magical happening underwater. We were finally lucky enough to see a Giant Pacific Manta during our safety stop when diving at Classico. So epic!
This guide will highlight some of the best places to dive in Playa Flamingo, our favorite shops, and some travel tips that will help along the way. Let’s dive in. 👌👎🤙
Photo credit: Under The Sea Diving
Best Time to Dive In Playa Flamingo
So when is the best time to go diving in Playa Flamingo? The Guanacaste region has two distinct seasons. November to April is generally considered the dry season, with rain lessening from November to December. Expect very little rain during that time. Water surface temperatures can drop to around 75F/24C and you’ll definitely want a wetsuit.
Then the “Green Season” rains begin in late May and carry through the summer months until the pattern starts over again. For om our experience, the rain has little effect on the general conditions out at the islands. Surface water temperatures can warm up to around 85F/29C, and wetsuits generally aren’t needed.
After 50+ combined dives in Playa Flamingo, we can honestly say that the entire year can offer optimal conditions. Our favorite dives have been in September and October. Conditions were clear, the water was warm, and we’re excited to get back there soon.
Our advice? Go dive any time you can!
Getting to Playa Flamingo
From Liberia Airport
Primary Route – Highway 21 to 155 to 180
80-90 Minutes in average traffic
This is the primary route into Playa Flamingo and surrounding areas. It’s three turns on three highways, and you roll right into the Flamingo Marina.
View route here
Secondary Route – Highway 21 to 151 to 911
50-60 Minutes in average traffic
This alternate route is called The Monkey Trail, and only available in the dry season, normally December-May. It crosses over a river, which makes it impassable in the Green Season. There’s a nearby private bridge to cross the river that may be open to use for around $10, but it’s only open from around 8am-5pm and not guaranteed.
View route here
From Everywhere Else
Are you traveling to Playa Flamingo from somewhere else in Costa Rica? Check out our complete travel blog, Ultimate Pura Vida for more information on navigating the country.
Dive Shops In Playa Flamingo
Our Favorites
Pacific Coast Dive Center
Located just minutes from the heart of Playa Flamingo, Pacific Coast Dive Center is our go-to shop for a quick dive trip. We’ve dived with them many times, and they consistently deliver a great mix of professionalism and fun. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned diver, the team ensures you’re well-prepared and comfortable. The turnoff for some is that they cater to both snorkelers and divers. The boat can feel very crowded, and expect to go to some of the same dive sites if you’re diving for multiple days. You can read our full review on them here.
Under The Sea Diving
If you’re looking for a more intimate, personalized dive experience, Under the Sea Diving is a fantastic option. We love this smaller operator for its friendly vibe and focus on individual attention. The owner, Aaron, is great at customizing dives to suit your skill level and interests. We’ve enjoyed diving with him, and his knowledge of the local dive sites, especially Las Catalinas, is unmatched. Plus, his dedication to safety and conservation makes every dive feel both thrilling and responsible.
Other Shops
We’re trying to dive with each shop, but some are closed seasonally. We’ll update this list over the upcoming months.
- ChrisDiving Dive Center
- ConnectOcean Aquatic Arcade
- Uncharted Diving Expeditions
- Rocket Frog Diving – Pickup point only. The main shop is in Playas del Coco.
- Scuba Dive Costa Rica – No longer an active shop.
- Dive With Jose – Doesn’t appear to be an active shop. Our inquiry was forwarded to Pacific Coast Dive Center. Maybe open seasonally.
Notable Dive Sites
Las Catalinas Islands
So, this is the spot. If you’re diving in Playa Flamingo, it will likely be at the Las Catalinas Islands, and possibly some surrounding islands like Brumel depending on conditions. The Las Catalinas Islands are well known for seeing the Pacific Giant Manta Rays. More frequent visitors include Spotted Eagle Rays, White-tipped Reef Sharks, Puffer Fish, and schools of tropical fish.
Playas Del Coco
The diving in Playas del Coco is accessible if you’re staying in Playa Flamingo, but it’s not as convenient as going with a local dive shop in Flamingo. We’ve made the early morning trip a few times, but it may be easier to stay in Coco if you’re planning on diving there frequently.
The Bat Islands
Like diving at Coco sites, the Bat Islands are accessible from Playa Flamingo with a little more effort. You’ll need to make the early dive to Playas del Coco to begin the trek north.
Shore Diving
Shore diving in this region isn’t very popular due to the amazing dive sites off the coast. However, there are still a few smaller operators that will work with you if conditions permit. Under The Sea Diving is one shop to try if you’re interested in shore diving in Playa Flamingo and the surrounding areas.
Travel Tips
- Bring your non-diving friends – Pacific Coast Dive Center offers discounted tours for snorkeling and people who want to ride along.
- Book tours early – This helpful year-round, but highly suggested in the peak season from December through April.
- Check diver minimums – Many tour operators have minimum diver requirements for going out. Many operators may cancel last minute so contact them before if you’re worried.
The Verdict
It’s not a bucket list trip, but the abundant biodiversity and year-round conditions won’t disappoint you. Don’t miss out on diving in Playa Flamingo.
