With roughly 70% of the earth’s surface covered by water inhabited by some 230,000 documented species of marine life, there’s a whole world under the sea waiting to be explored. If you’re interested in regular dives becoming part of your lifestyle, consider setting up a permanent home base nearby. Take a look at some of the best scuba destinations on the globe.
Rosa Calderón, Riviera Maya Sotheby’s International Realty
Get up close and personal with the largest extant fish species in the world when you take the plunge in the waters of Isla Mujeres. During the summer months, fleets of hundreds of whale sharks gather north of the island to feast in the plankton-rich waters. Swap your scuba tank for snorkelling mask, as these pelagic swimmers often stay close to the surface to keep warm. Despite their enormous mouths, these sharks pose no risk to humans—meaning a real swim with the sharks is possible. Then take a weekend trip down the coast to Cozumel, where you’ll find a healthy Caribbean reef and dives for every level of skill.
Eloisa García, Riviera Maya Sotheby’s International Realty
Recount your under-the-sea adventures over dinner on the terrace at this Isla Mujeres manor located just a short distance from North Beach. With breathtaking panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea available from each window, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. In need of a little more R&R after an exhilarating dive? Travel a little further down the coast and retreat to this Playa del Carmen property—complete with its own private spa and pool.
Barbara Wolveridge, Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty
It’s hardly surprising that the Great Barrier Reef has been a top aspiration for many a diver. Over 2,900 individual reefs and 300 coral cays comprise this vastly diverse UNESCO-listed landscape—the only living structure on earth observable from outer space. Alongside more than 1,500 species of fish, navigate through kaleidoscopic displays of brightly colored coral, crustaceans, and other critters.
Beach, eat, sleep, repeat might just become your new routine at this coastal Queensland home. Often considered the gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the city of Cairns plays host to this glamorous oceanfront home, situated on a dramatic beachfront on the northeastern shores of Queensland. After descending the depths of the Coral Sea, cap off your adventures by sinking into a hammock suspended between two palms, or sunning on the deck of the spacious saltwater swimming pool.
Gayle Ching, MacArthur Sotheby’s International Realty
A Manta Ray Night Dive should definitely be on every diver’s bucket list. Kailua-Kona, located on the west coast of the Big Island, is one of the few destinations in the world where it’s possible to experience a nocturnal swim with these gentle giants. Safer than their stinging counterparts, manta rays pose no harm to divers. After taking in the blazing Kona sunset, enter the depths to see these 16-foot creatures hunt for plankton. Use this gated Hawaiian residence as a launch pad to explore all that the Big Island has to offer, from crashing waterfalls to tropical rainforests.
Karen Davidson, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
Follow the barks of sea lions to the small volcanic island known as Anacapa in California, one of North America’s best diving sites. Drift through lush kelp beds and watch the harbor seals putting on their finest acrobat routines. Life is but a California dream at this oceanfront beach house located just a few nautical miles northeast of the island, with secluded decks perfect for entertaining or soaking in every moment of sunset.
Donna Medrea, Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty
SoCal is home to still more first-class diving sites: La Jolla Underwater Park, a short distance from San Diego, guarantees sightings of a wide range of marine life including sharks, nudibranchs, and octopi. Explore the depths of nearby Wreck Alley, featuring the remains of eight different ships, including a 366-foot Canadian Mackenzie-class destroyer known as the Yukon, and the Ruby E, a 165-foot Coast Guard cutter. Enjoy all the sights and sounds of the ocean with all of the grandeur of Old Hollywood from this sprawling 1940s-era La Jolla Estate.
Michelle Bess Bellegarde & Pierre Bellegarde, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sotheby’s International Realty
When it comes to photographing marine life, the reefs off the islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines are among some of the world’s most camera-friendly. Forests of black coral, haunting sea caverns, and a wide range of photogenic sea creatures including reef sharks, Hawksbill turtles, and seahorses offer an abundance of subjects and backdrops. A nearby Pirates Cove escape provides location for discerning adventurers looking to explore the archipelago, with close proximity to dive sites and volcanoes.
There’s so much more to oceanfront living than what can be found on dry land. You never know what you might encounter when you explore the depths of the world’s most fascinating underwater ecosystems.
Source your own beach home or private island to ensure that your next scuba excursion is just a short distance from your door.
Dreaming of an entirely unique Lake Michigan beach home? Look no further than this inspired oasis, providing a private lifestyle situated near South Haven’s quaint downtown. Take a look into this contemporary beach home where luxury abounds.
77280 South Beach Drive, South Haven, MI| $2,495,000
Whether you seek an inviting lakeshore home for entertaining friends and family, or a peaceful environment to soak in the summer sun, this custom-built retreat is your escape from the every day.
The main level makes entertaining a breeze with a state-of-the-art kitchen, dining, hearth room and living room. The covered patio is ready for an afternoon BBQ, with a sprawling lawn opening up to the beach below.
The impressive trim details, including inlaid ceilings and classic built-ins, complement the refreshing coastal flair and underscores the meticulous construction of Mike Schaap Builders.
Reserved for rest and relaxation, the upper level provides accommodations for overnight guests, as well as a majestic master suite. Opening up to the deck, enjoy morning coffee or an evening sunset over the water.
Awake to the calming sound of the waves. Waterfront amenities abound, including a beach bathroom and outdoor shower to keep sand at bay.
Spend all your days on the shore of Lake Michigan or take a short bike ride into downtown South Haven, a hub of fine dining, shops and more. From morning until dusk, your lakefront residence will house your Lake Michigan memories for years to come.
Ready for an in-person tour? Contact Josi Van Horn today.