Aug 6, 2025: On International Scuba Diving Day, travel content creators dish on the best destinations to experience the wonders of the ocean.
How does the underwater world look? Imagine this: Fish, corals, plants, seaweed, and you swimming right through its beauty. Today is International Scuba Day, and everyone who loves the ocean is invited to dive in and see what lies beneath the surface. And what better way to mark the occasion than planning your next dive? We asked travel influencers some of the best places to experience scuba diving in India and beyond.

Havelock Island, Andaman & Nicobar Islands:
With crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and rich marine life, this islet in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands is one of India’s top diving destinations, says content creator Mihir Golani. “It’s also beginner-friendly with PADI-certified instructors and calm waters. He shares that the waters are less crowded and have a visibility of 25 to 30 meters. Budget: ?35,000 - ?50,000 (with flights to Port Blair, ferry to Havelock, stay, 1–2 dives, gear and instructor)

Bangaram & Kadmat Islands, Lakshadweep:
Want something off-beat? Explore these atolls in Lakshadweep. Mihir tells us, "These spots offer one of the most untouched diving experiences in India." He continues, "The water is turquoise blue and houses diverse marine life like turtles and reef sharks." The place has minimal tourist traffic and unexplored dive sites.”
Budget: ?40,000 - ?60,000 (with flights to Agatti Island, boat to Bangaram or Kadmat, accommodation, 1–2 dives, permits, gear and instructor)

Raja Ampat, Bali, and Komodo, Indonesia:
Nehaa Nambiar, a creator of travel content, suggests these Indonesian islands for deep-sea diving. Indonesia stands out as the best location for scuba diving. The marine biodiversity here is insane; you see everything from tiny nudibranchs to majestic manta rays in one dive. On a clear day, visibility can exceed 30 meters, she claims. Budget: ?33,500 - ?36,000 for fun dives, depending on region (includes flight and accommodation costs for 2-3) and ?25,000 - ?30,000 for a full Open Water course

Neil Island, Andaman & Nicobar Islands:
Also part of the Andaman & Nicobar island network, this spot is quiet and less commercial, making for a peaceful diving experience. According to Purva, “Calm waters and certified dive schools make it suitable for first-timers.” Budget: 40,000 to 50,000 yen (including flights, ferry rides, lodging, the Open Water Diving Course, and three to four days of diving). varies depending on the season and the type of course.

Koh Tao, Thailand:
Also known as Southeast Asia’s diving mecca, this Thai atoll might be tiny, but offers the most bang for your buck. It is the preferred destination for first-timers due to the low cost of diving certifications there. It has great visibility, varied marine life, and many dive shops,” shares creator Purva Joshi. Budget: ?46,000 - ?53,000 (includes flights to Koh Samui, boat to Koh Tao, diving courses and accommodation for 2-3 days)

Blue spaces for mental ease:
A growing body of research, such as BlueHealth, suggests that water bodies offer various physiological and psychological benefits. Open blue spaces such as oceans, lakes, ponds, and rivers were found to reduce mental distress and antidepressant use, while boosting positive emotions. Even just looking at blue spaces on a regular basis can help you sleep better and strengthen your social relationships because people naturally gather in beautiful places.