The Corn Islands

About 70 kilometers (43 miles) off Nicaragua’s Mosquito Coast, the Corn Islands are a phenomenal diving destination that wasn’t given the recognition it deserves. This hidden gem remains an untouched paradise, unlike other Caribbean destinations smothered by mass tourism. The islands are surrounded by a barrier reef system where you can expect to see a wide variety of corals, sponges, rays, dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical reef fish. You can also find a small shipwreck in very shallow water.
The area is made up of Big Corn – the largest island, and Little Corn. Big Corn offers more than 40 species of coral, nurse sharks, eagle rays, and lots of tropical fish. The smaller but wilder Little Corn is known for its abundance of wildlife and coral as well. Diving spots here feature interesting overhangs, swim-throughs, and a shark cave.

Apoyo

Formed thousands of years ago after a volcanic eruption, Laguna de Apoyo is a unique diving site. Because it is a protected area, the lagoon is one of the cleanest places you can dive in. The lake is heated by natural springs and thermal vents, so the water here is balmy year-round. The lake is renowned for its blue waters, amazing visibility, and incredible biodiversity. The fish were introduced to the lake thousands of years ago and have since evolved independently in this enclosed environment. the most common fish are members of the family Cichlidae, but rainbow bass and freshwater turtles can also be spotted here.

Xiloá

Another volcanic lake, Xiloá is easy to reach from the Nicaraguan capital. As Apoyo, this lake is heated by geothermal vents too. About 14 species of fish live in this lagoon, and other interesting water creatures such as white crabs and freshwater turtles can be seen here. Due to its topography, Xiloá proves to be a great spot for wall diving. An interesting phenomenon occurs between April and November when a layer of clear water appears between 18 and 30 meters (60-100 feet).