Diving

Catalina Islands. The Catalina Islands are a major destination for dive operations based all along the coast. These barrier islands are remarkable for their diversity and appeal to different levels of divers. On one side, the islands have 20- to 30-foot drops, great for beginners. The other side has deeper drops of 60 to 80 feet, better suited to more experienced divers. Among the 25 dive sites, the top are Dirty Rock, Elephant Rock, Big Catalina, and Cupcake. From January to March, when the water is colder, you are almost guaranteed manta ray sightings at these spots. Cownose and devil rays are also spotted here in large schools, as well as bull and white-tipped sharks, several types of eels, and an array of reef fish. Dive operators from Playa Hermosa south to Tamarindo offer trips to these islands. Reserve through your hotel, or directly through a dive shop. The islands are a 30-minute boat trip from Potrero Bay. Potrero, Guanacaste.