With every great scuba vacation comes obligatory surface intervals, from downtime between dives to extended dry spells before flying home. Choosing destinations with more than scuba diving means your time on terra firma will be as memorable as your underwater adventures.
Whether you’re fueling other sporting passions, photographing wildlife beyond the ocean or taking in awe-inspiring sights around your favorite dive destinations, the activities on this list are a perfect complement to any diving holiday (and they’ll keep non-divers in your group happy, too).
From Indonesian retreats to turtle conservation in Costa Rica, and from surfing in Hawaii to Egyptian culture, here are twelve destinations with more than scuba diving to offer.
The Best Scuba Diving Destinations With Other Activities
- See Ancient Wonders in Egypt
- Go Diving and Surfing in Hawaii
- Protect Turtles in Costa Rica
- Gaze at the Northern Lights in Norway
- Go on a Safari in South Africa
- Go Riding and Diving in Spain
- Enjoy Diving and Hiking in New Zealand
- Discover Sacred Temples in Thailand
- Kayak and Dive Around the Galapagos Islands
- Go Ice Diving and Skiing in Japan
- Entertain the Kids (and Adults) in Florida
- Practice Yoga and Scuba Diving in Bali
1. See Ancient Wonders in Egypt
If you’re fascinated by ancient civilizations, then take a journey through history at Egypt’s Great Pyramid, the Sphinx and the new museum at Giza. An excursion to behold these desert monuments against the arid, golden backdrop of the Sahara will add a satisfying contrast to the vivid, blue waters and kaleidoscopic coral reefs you’ll find while diving along the Red Sea’s coast.
2. Go Diving and Surfing in Hawaii
Hawaii is a natural tapestry of rainforests, beaches and rising cliffs coupled with gentle shores, winding lava tubes and night dives with manta rays. The islands’ volcanic origins also shape world-class surfing spots. So, if you’re looking for beginner-friendly breaks or want to watch the pros tackle Oahu’s adrenaline-pumping Pipeline, choose Hawaii as your surf and dive vacation.
3. Protect Turtles in Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s commitment to conservation inspires its broad network of national parks and eco-tourism initiatives. This also makes it a firm favorite scuba destination for Ocean Torchbearers™. If you want to give back to the ocean during your next vacation, start at Tortuguero. Besides thriving reefs and intriguing wrecks, this Caribbean region welcomes hands-on volunteering with marine biologists to protect the planet’s largest population of nesting green turtles.
4. Gaze at the Northern Lights in Norway
The icy fjords and seas around Norway serve adventure in two parts. By day, drift dive at the world’s strongest maelstrom or look for passing orcas while visiting cold-water coral reefs. Then, at night, watch as the Aurora Borealis transforms the Arctic sky into a mesmerizing light show. Everyone wants a front-row seat to this natural spectacle – and Norway’s unspoiled wilderness is the ideal venue.
5. Go on a Safari in South Africa
Already celebrated for its annual Sardine Run, towering kelp forests and thrilling shark dives, it’s hard to imagine how South Africa can get any better. Yet back on land, safaris through savannas and mountain panoramas raise the bar for both wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike. Book your trip to South Africa to tick off Big Five lists above and below the waves.
6. Go Riding and Diving in Spain
Head to Spain’s equestrian capital, Andalusia, for horseback riding in Doñana National Park. Here, nature-filled marshlands, dunes and pine forests lead to vast beaches where exhilarating gallops finish under magnificent sunsets. Meanwhile, the meeting of Atlantic and Mediterranean waters creates flourishing underwater habitats and epic dive sites – keep an eye out for seahorses!
7. Enjoy Diving and Hiking in New Zealand
With a dramatic Middle-Earth vista that spans mountains, valleys, forests, beaches, volcanos, glaciers and waterfalls, New Zealand is one of the top destinations with more than scuba diving. For example, pair a hiking trail with sought-after dive sites for an unforgettable itinerary. In particular, the Milford Track Great Walk leads to Milford Sound, a haven for penguins, dolphins, whales and countless critters hiding in rare black coral.
8. Discover Sacred Temples in Thailand
The Land of a Thousand Smiles reaches far beyond its vibrant corals and creatures. Indeed, home to over 40,000 temples, visitors are invited to appreciate the tranquility, intricate architecture and Buddhist teachings of these sacred spaces. For purposeful travel steeped in culture and spiritual heritage, as well as incredible underwater experiences, plan your dive vacation in Thailand.
9. Kayak and Dive Around the Galapagos Islands
It’s no secret the Galapagos is one of the world’s best scuba destinations. Rugged, volcanic seascapes pave the way for incredible drift diving and life-affirming pelagic encounters. Add sea kayaking to your adventures, and you’ll reveal an intimate perspective of these wild islands’ flora and fauna – such as paddling with penguins or watching marine iguanas bask in secluded coves.
10. Go Ice Diving and Skiing in Japan
Hokkaido is a prime destination for drift ice diving. Here, resident seals and migrating giant octopuses thrive in crystal-clear conditions. What’s more, if you love skiing or snowboarding, the island’s legendary powder snow will turn up the chill factor. While visiting, take time to admire Japan’s rich culture, from exquisite art and cuisine to peaceful zen gardens.
11. Entertain the Kids (and Adults) in Florida
Besides its underwater appeal (from manatee encounters to colorful corals and shipwreck trails in the Florida Keys), the Sunshine State offers endless entertainment for all ages. Firstly, there are dozens of exciting theme parks – including the new Epic Universe for 2025. Elsewhere, the Kennedy Space Center beckons aspiring astronauts, while the scenic Everglades promises relaxing family getaways.
12. Practice Yoga and Scuba Diving in Bali
Scuba diving helps you switch off and live unfiltered – wherever you choose to dive. However, Bali takes blue health to the next level. As if its idyllic beaches, serene coral gardens and graceful mantas weren’t enough, myriad well-being spas and yoga retreats are nestled around the island, making this a mecca for restoring your mind and body between dives.
Surface Interval Safety
Some suggestions on this list include topside activities you shouldn’t do immediately after diving, as they could increase the risk of decompression sickness (for example, climbing mountains or strenuous exercise). For your safety, be sure to allow a sufficient surface interval for your chosen adventure, and speak to your chosen PADI Dive Shop for further guidance.
Explore Scuba Diving and Adventure Travel Ideas
Looking to explore the best destinations with more than scuba diving? PADI Travel® empowers travelers to discover new depths on our shared blue planet through bucket-list adventures, the largest collection of liveaboards and dive resorts and thoughtful holiday itineraries to suit every interest.
