Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
DIVERS DO IT DEEPER
The northern peninsula is one of the best and most easily accessible dive destinations in
the country. Dives are made either around volcanic rock pinnacles near the coast, or from
a boat further off at Isla Santa Catalina (about 20km to the southwest) or Isla Murciélago
(40km to the northwest, near the tip of Península Santa Elena). Visibility varies greatly
(9m to 15m, and sometimes up to 20m), and the water can be chilly.
There is no colorful hard coral that you would see at a reef, but the sites make up for it
with abundant marine life. Plenty of turtles and pelagics meander through, including
mantas, sharks and whales. You'll be lost in huge schools of smaller tropical fish. These
waters are sometimes home to humpback whales, who can be heard underwater during
calving season (January to March) and seen during migration season (June and July).
Isla Santa Catalina and Isla Murciélago both host migrant manta rays from December
to late April, and Murciélago is also known for its regular sightings of resident bull sharks.
Divers also head to Narizones, which is a good deep dive (about 27m), while Punta Gorda
is an easy descent for inexperienced divers.
If you haven't been scuba diving before, consider taking a 'Discovery Course,' which
costs about US$145. If you're interested in getting your Open Water Diver certification,
which allows you to dive anywhere in the world, a three- to four-day course is about
US$420.
Drinking & Nightlife
Tiki Coco Place
BAR
Get a front row seat for the ongoing beach volleyball match or, even better, a killer sunset.
This new open-air beach bar offers tasty American fare, ice-cold beers and standard fruity
cocktails, not to mention service with a smile.
La Vida Loca
BAR
Keep the party moving at La Vida Loca, with live music on some weekends.
