As summer rolls in, travelers are looking to get outside and explore more of the great outdoors—especially our vast underwater life. Those who are drawn to vibrant coral reefs, marine life encounters or maritime history can choose from a wide array of destinations this season that promise unforgettable adventures beneath the waves—from the vibrant reefs surrounding Olhahali Island to the historic shipwrecks in Hvar, Croatia.
Olhahali Island, Maldives: Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Olhahali Island boasts some of the most pristine and diverse dive sites on the planet. Travelers can fully immerse in crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful coral gardens, majestic manta rays, and graceful whale sharks. Explore underwater caves, swim-throughs, and dramatic drop-offs, offering an exhilarating experience for divers of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time diver, Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island welcomes guests to explore and learn about the island’s underwater playground with diving lessons and marine expeditions led by the on-site marine biologist.
Key West, FL: Accessible right from the resort’s activity piers, guests staying at Casa Marina Key West can venture into the warm, tropical waters off the coast of Key West and discover a world of vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations. Dive along the iconic Florida Reef, the third-largest barrier reef system in the world, home to an incredible array of fish, turtles, and rays. Explore legendary wreck sites such as the Vandenberg and the Thunderbolt, where history and marine life converge in a mesmerizing underwater spectacle. With excellent visibility and year-round diving opportunities, Key West is a diver's paradise waiting to be explored.
Fort Lauderdale, FL: Experience the thrill of diving amidst a rich maritime heritage in Fort Lauderdale. Known as the "Shipwreck Capital of Florida," this coastal city is home to numerous wreck sites dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries. Visitors can explore everything from sunken ships to artificial reefs and underwater museums, each telling a unique story of history and exploration, while diving alongside barracudas, sea turtles, and colorful tropical fish found in the deep waters. Whether you're a history buff or an underwater enthusiast, Fort Lauderdale offers an unforgettable diving experience like no other. Upon opening this fall, guests staying at the new Pier Sixty-Six Resort will have direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway for diving and exploration.
Hvar, Croatia: As one of the largest boat-charter markets on the continent, Hvar attracts travelers to explore the sunniest island in Croatia and experience the island’s vibrant underwater life. From 6.2 miles of limestone that make up the chain of Pakleni islands, to the greatest number of antique shipwrecks to explore underwater, snorkelers can experience a kaleidoscope of the island’s colorful coral, rich flora and fauna, including the red gorgonian adorning several vertical reefs. This summer, diving-enthusiasts staying at Suncani Hvar’s Palace Elisabeth can arrange a day trip via boat charter—ranging from speedboats to catamarans—to explore the underwater world at the nearby Paklinski islands.
Dubai, UAE: Located in the vibrant city of Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Hotel stands as a beacon of luxury and leisure along the shores of the Arabian Gulf. With its iconic wave-like design, the resort offers the opportunity for exhilarating adventures beneath the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf. Diving enthusiasts can embark on an underwater journey to explore the diverse marine life and captivating coral reefs that thrive in these crystal-clear waters. From vibrant coral gardens teeming with colorful fish to mesmerizing shipwrecks steeped in history, each dive promises an encounter with the wonders of the underwater world. After a day of exploration, guests can return to the lavish comforts of Jumeirah Beach Hotel, where they can indulge in world-class dining, rejuvenating spa treatments, and panoramic views of the coastline.
