They (or rather, we) believe that couples that dive together, stay together. A honeymoon isn't just an ordinary getaway; it should be an unforgettable adventure of a lifetime. And what could be more perfect than raising a toast to your future while immersing yourselves in the world's most enchanting and romantic diving destinations? For couples who share a passion for the mysteries of the deep blue sea, a diving honeymoon offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore the underwater world together. Whether you're seasoned divers seeking new horizons or beginners eager to embark on this thrilling journey as a couple, read on to discover the world's best honeymoon diving destinations.
1. The Maldives
The Maldives needs little introduction. Home to the world's most luxurious private islands and the birthplace of the overwater villa, this tropical archipelago is one of the world's most popular honeymoon destinations. The country consists of 26 atolls and approximately 1,190 coral islands flung across the Indian Ocean, making it an ideal destination for diving enthusiasts.
The northern Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is one of the best honeymoon diving destinations in the Maldives. Here, divers and snorkellers alike can swim alongside the world's biggest aggregation of reef manta rays and whale sharks in Hanifaru Bay. Between May and November, this bay becomes a plankton-rich soup, attracting hundreds of manta rays. To top it off, the bay is also a nursing ground for grey reef sharks.
2. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora, often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Pacific', is a dreamy destination that has captivated the hearts of honeymooners for generations. This lush island is surrounded by a vibrant coral reef, making it a perfect setting for underwater escapades. For those wanting to learn to dive, the gin-clear lagoons are the perfect natural swimming pools to master your essential skills alongside lemon sharks and eagle rays.
Once you've mastered the necessary skills, there are a plethora of shallow sites to explore. One of our favourites is Toopua Iti, which offers a chance to spot blacktip reef sharks, eagle rays and a variety of tropical fish. For advanced divers, Muri Muri is a drift dive features a beautiful coral garden, swim-throughs and the possibility of spotting Napoleon wrasse and humphead wrasse.
3. Palau
Palau, located in the western Pacific Ocean, is the best honeymoon diving destination for newlyweds looking to get off the beaten path. This small island nation is home to some of the world's most biodiverse reefs, yet receives a fraction of the finfall compared to other diving destinations, meaning you'll often have dive sites to yourself. One of the standout dive sites in Palau is the Blue Corner, known for its strong currents and the chance to witness schools of barracuda and sharks.
4. Fiji
Fiji is known for its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, vibrant coral reefs and a range of dive sites suitable for all levels of divers. While there are over 300 islands across the archipelago, four stand-out as the best honeymoon diving destinations. The remote Yasawa Islands offer some of Fiji's finest diving. These secluded sites range from drifting along vibrant soft coral walls to exploring intricate cave systems. Known as the 'Garden Island', Taveuni is renowned for its lush landscapes and excellent diving opportunities, including the famous Rainbow Reef and the Great White Wall.
Over in Kadavu Island, divers can explore the Great Astrolabe Reef, the world's fourth-largest barrier reef. Lastly, Beqa Lagoon boasts one of the best shark dives in the world, with bull sharks and tiger sharks seen year-round. On land, explore Fiji's secluded beaches adorned with coconut trees and soft sand, straight out of Robinson Crusoe.
5. Cozumel, Mexico
Located off Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel is a small island nestled in the Caribbean Sea, famous for its pristine waters and diverse marine ecosystems. Explore the Palancar Reef, known for its dramatic underwater landscapes, intricate caves and a rich tapestry of marine life, including sea turtles and nurse sharks.
For divers looking for honeymoon diving destinations with a heady mix of topside attractions, Cozumel ticks all the boxes. Take a day trip back to the mainland to explore ancient Mayan ruins and fuel up on fresh ceviche and tacos. For a truly extraordinary experience, take a day trip (or two) to dive the cenotes. These freshwater sinkholes are lined with ancient stalagmites and stalactites in crystal-clear water; if you can do only two dives, make sure they are Cenote Angelita and Dos Ojos.
