Scuba Diving in Goa

Goa is a fascinating blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures. It’s the most popular beach destination in India, offering more than just the sea, sand, and delicious seafood. Its distinctive heritage and bustling nightlife bring thousands of tourists in from all over the world. And although it may not be one of those top dive destinations you visit specifically for diving purposes, you’ll find that diving here is not that bad, actually. Especially if you’re just learning to dive.

Goa Scuba Diving Info

Goa is the best region in India for scuba diving. Its shores are surrounded by coral reefs that are home to sea turtles, rays, and numerous species of reef fish. There are also some decent wrecks you may want to check out. However, don’t expect perfect diving conditions, especially when it comes to the far-from-great visibility.

When to Visit

The scuba diving season in Goa runs from October to April.

Water Temperature

The water temperature in Goa is perfect for diving year-round. The water temperature typically exceeds 27° C/80° F.

Currents

The sea can be choppy in Goa, with undercurrents and rip tides. It all depends on the weather and location, but your dive center should know where to take you to avoid any inconveniences.

Visibility

Water visibility in Goa is typically between 5 and 20 meters (16-66 feet).

Types of Diving

• Reef diving
• Wreck diving
• Wall diving

Goa Scuba Diving Highlights

Grand Island

Grand Island is arguably the most popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving in Goa. The island’s most famous dive site is Suzy, the wreck of a sunken British vessel. More experienced divers can explore the Davy Jones Locker, another wreck resting in shallow water, but this dive site experiences strong currents which makes it unsuitable for novices.
But don’t worry, many of the dive sites around Grande Island are located close to shore and can be discovered by both beginners and advanced divers, with dive site depth ranging from 7 to 20 meters (23-66 feet).

Netrani/Pigeon Island

Netrani, or Pigeon, is a small island that offers some of the best diving on India’s west coast. With healthy coral reefs and a wide array of reef fish around the island you won’t be disappointed by the diving here. Sightings of orcas and whale sharks have been reported here, but don’t get your hopes up. You’ll see mostly triggerfish, parrotfish, eels, and butterflyfish, among other common species found in the Arabic Sea.

Malan

Malvan is a town situated on the mainland, part of the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. The beaches here aren’t as developed as other beaches in North Goa, which can only mean more cleanness and serenity. Water sports are very popular in Malvan, including scuba diving. The dive sites here are reachable by boat and depth ranges from 5 to 25 meters (16-82 feet). These calm waters are home to sea creatures such as lobsters, panfish, clams, and colorful corals.