More nutrients and colder water at the Cocos Islands and the Galapagos result in mind-blowing diving with ocean giants during July. Whale season is in full swing on the Great Barrier Reef, and conditions are perfect in Sipadan. Welcome to the best places to dive in July.
Cocos Island, Costa Rica
Cocos Island is perhaps Costa Rica’s best dive area and the island has been a marine reserve for more than 30 years; making it one of the best places to dive in July… if not any time. Ocean currents bring nutrients to the waters of Cocos during July and these nutrients attract hundreds of hammerhead sharks, mantas and whale sharks to the area. It is early in the rainy season, with relatively calm waters, and it is a great time to experience the variety of megafauna on offer. The Argo liveaboard offers 10-night Cocos Island expeditions.
Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands have many world-class dive sites and Galapagos liveaboard diving means being surrounded by wildlife found nowhere else on earth. It is an ideal diving destination for advanced divers, who can enjoy swimming with marine iguanas, sea lions, eagle rays, manta rays and numerous sharks; including silky, Galapagos, blacktips, and schools of hammerhead sharks.
June to December is peak diving season and the Humboldt current carries cold water and plankton to the island during July. It is a great time of year for diving with whale sharks and manta rays, though there are also large numbers of hammerhead sharks, plus occasional silky and Galapagos sharks to enjoy. The Galapagos Sky offers safaris to the iconic dive sites of the Galapagos Islands.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Dwarf mink whales migrate to the Coral Sea each winter to breed and calve. The Great Barrier Reef is the only place in the worldwhere divers and snorkelers can swim with dwarf minke whales. The M/V Spoilsportand Ocean Quest offer minke whale safaris during July each year.
Sipadan Island
Malaysia’s most famous dive destination and is the quintessential tropical paradise, both above and below the water. Diving anytime of the year is spectacular in Sipadan Island, however the flat seas and cloudless sunny skies that prevail during July make diving here during this month extra special. Sipadan is known for its healthy reefs, covered with colourful coral and fish.
Hiding in the cracks and crevices is an astonishing amount of macro life, and it’s not unusual to spot multiple turtles leisurely munching on sponges along the reef walls. This destination is excellent for experienced and beginner divers alike. The calm conditions and often-gentle currents, paired with the phenomenal marine life result in diving that is wonderful for every diver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best places to dive in July?
Top destinations include the Galapagos, Cocos Island, the Great Barrier Reef, and Sipadan Island, each offering unique marine life encounters.
Can you dive in the Galapagos in July?
Yes, July is peak season in the Galapagos with nutrient-rich waters attracting whale sharks, manta rays, and huge schools of hammerhead sharks.
Why dive Cocos Island in July?
Ocean currents bring nutrients that attract hammerheads, mantas, and whale sharks, making July one of the best months for megafauna sightings.
Is July a good time to dive Sipadan?
Yes, calm seas and clear skies make July ideal for diving Sipadan’s healthy coral reefs and spotting turtles, reef fish, and macro critters.
Can you swim with whales in July?
Yes, July is minke whale season on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the only place in the world where divers can swim with these gentle giants.
