• Location: Malapascua Island in the Philippines

• Why: There is a resident population of Thresher sharks that allow divers to observe them nearly every morning.

• Location: Cocos Island off the Coast of Costa Rica

• Why: Located about 36 hours from the mainland and only accessive by liveaboards. This marine park serves schooling hammerhead sharks, white-tip sharks, giant manta rays, whale sharks, and much more.

• Location: Malpelo Island off the coast of Columbia

• Why: Another marine park that hosts schooling hammerhead sharks, silky sharks, eagle rays, massive schools of fish, and much more.

• Location: Sudan

• Why: Healthy coral reefs and low number which both attract shark populations

• Location: Zanzibar Island off the coast of Tanzania

• Why: The island hosts a wide range of hard and soft corals attracting over 500 marine species, such as dolphins, sea turtles, large schools of fish, and extraordinary sea creatures.

Location: Madagascar

• Why: At least 30+ species of whales and dolphins, 5 species of sea turtles, 50+ species of sharks, 300+ species of coral, and over 1,300 species of fish. What more can I say here?

• Location: Wakatobi Island in Indonesia

• Why: Luxury diving (meaning: less divers) with lovely atolls, walls, fringing reefs, sea mounts, and a barrier reef all filled with tons of marine life.

• Location: Fernando de Noronha in Brazil

• Why: South Atlantic waters provide shelter to over 230 species of fish, 15 species of coral, and a breeding ground for spinner dolphins.

• Location: French Polynesia Islands

• Why: There are over 118 islands and atolls that comprise French Polynesia. Dive sites boast colorful and healthy reefs, large populations of tropical fish, sharks, and whales.

• Location: Antarctica

• Why: I need at least one cold-water dive destination on this fantastic list. Let’s experience icebergs, orcas, whales, penguins, and rare crustaceans.