Galapagos Diving Guide: Where to Dive, What You’ll See, and When
The Galapagos Islands are often called the “Living Museum of the Sea,” and it’s easy to see why. Beneath the waves lies one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems on Earth. Diving here means coming face-to-face with sharks, sea turtles, rays, and hundreds of species found nowhere else on the planet.
Whether you’re an experienced diver or planning your first underwater adventure, this guide covers the best dive sites, what to expect in each season, and how to plan your perfect Galapagos diving trip.
🌊 Why Dive in the Galapagos
Few places in the world offer such a mix of marine life, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and untouched underwater habitats.
You can expect:
• Clear blue water and incredible visibility during the warm season
• Large pelagic species like hammerheads and manta rays during cooler months
• Encounters with creatures that don’t exist anywhere else on Earth
If you’ve already explored snorkeling in the Galapagos, diving takes that experience to a completely new level of immersion.
👉 Check out our Galapagos Snorkeling Guide to compare the two experiences.
🐢 Top Dive Sites in the Galapagos
Darwin and Wolf Islands (Advanced)
These remote northern islands are world-famous for massive schools of hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and manta rays. Diving here requires experience and is typically accessible only by liveaboard cruises.
Gordon Rocks (Intermediate to Advanced)
Known as the “Washing Machine” for its strong currents, Gordon Rocks is one of the best spots to see hammerheads, sea turtles, and Galapagos sharks. Located near Santa Cruz, it’s a convenient day trip for certified divers.
Kicker Rock (Intermediate)
Off the coast of San Cristóbal, this dramatic volcanic formation is home to eagle rays, reef sharks, and sea turtles gliding through crystal-clear channels. It’s one of the most photogenic sites in the islands.
Floreana and North Seymour (Beginner to Intermediate)
Perfect for divers seeking gentler conditions and incredible biodiversity. Expect reef fish, garden eels, and sea lions that love to play in front of your mask.
📅 Diving Conditions by Season
Warm Season (December to May)
Water temperature: 73°F to 78°F (23°C to 26°C)
Sea conditions: Calmer, clearer, with excellent visibility
Marine life: Reef fish, rays, turtles, and colorful corals
Why go: Comfortable conditions and vibrant underwater colors
Cool Season (June to November)
Water temperature: 66°F to 73°F (19°C to 23°C)
Sea conditions: Cooler, stronger currents, slightly lower visibility
Marine life: Hammerhead and whale sharks, sea lions, marine iguanas
Why go: Peak season for large pelagic encounters and dramatic diving
For a detailed overview of what wildlife you can expect in each season, explore our Galapagos Wildlife by Season Guide.
💡 Planning Tips for Your Dive Trip
• Choose the right base: Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal offer excellent day dives, while liveaboard trips reach Darwin and Wolf.
• Bring layers: Even in warm months, thermoclines can make temperatures drop quickly.
• Certifications: Most sites require Advanced Open Water certification due to strong currents.
• Book early: Liveaboard spaces sell out months in advance, especially from June to November.
• Pair with land adventures: Many travelers combine diving with fishing or hiking tours. If you’re interested, check our Galapagos Fishing Charters Guide.
🧭 Dive the Galapagos with Confidence
At Blue Galapagos, we help divers plan seamless, sustainable trips across the islands. Whether you want a liveaboard experience or a few scenic day dives combined with island tours, we’ll handle the logistics and connect you with trusted local operators.