Top Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Locations in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

1. Vancouver Aquarium

Explore marine life with interactive exhibits, and join scuba diving experiences in the shark tank.

Interactive Experience: Offers close-up encounters with marine animals.
Educational Programs: Promotes ocean conservation and wildlife education.
Unique Shark Tank Dive: Provides a rare opportunity to scuba dive with sharks in an aquarium setting.

Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs.

Exquisite Marine Life: Boasts a rich variety of underwater species.
Tranquil Island Setting: Surrounded by serene, natural beauty for a peaceful diving experience.
Accessible by Ferry: Easily reachable with daily ferry service from Vancouver.

Experience one of the most biologically rich areas in the world with a snorkeling adventure.

Rich Biodiversity: Home to numerous marine species, including orcas and humpback whales.
Indigenous Cultural Significance: Sacred site for the Heiltsuk First Nation, offering cultural tours and experiences.
Remote Wilderness Setting: Located in a pristine wilderness area, providing an untouched diving experience.

Explore this historical naval destroyer that serves as an artificial reef for marine life.

Historical Artifact: A part of Canadian maritime history, providing a unique dive experience.
Artificial Reef: Creates a thriving underwater habitat for various marine species.
Wreck Diving Opportunity: Allows experienced divers to explore a submerged shipwreck.

Discover seals, sea lions, and colorful fish in the protected waters around this island.

Marine Mammal Sanctuary: A designated marine mammal sanctuary, ensuring a safe environment for wildlife.
Clear Waters: Offers excellent visibility for underwater exploration.
Boat Access Only: Accessible only by boat, ensuring a peaceful and secluded diving experience.

Snorkel in the calm waters of Indian Arm, spotting fish and exploring underwater forests.

Calm Waters: Ideal for beginners and snorkelers looking for a peaceful experience.
Underwater Forests: Discover sunken trees and other unique underwater landscapes.
Accessible by Kayak or Boat: Easily reachable from nearby kayak or boat launches.

Dive around the iconic lighthouse, spotting seals, eels, and colorful fish.

Historic Landmark: Offers a unique diving experience around a historic site.
Underwater Sculptures: Discover underwater sculptures and art installations.
City Views: Provides breathtaking views of Vancouver's skyline from below the water surface.

Dive into a dramatic wall dive, filled with large fish and anemones.

Drama of the Drop-off: Provides a sense of adventure and exploration with the vertical drop-off.
Large Fish Populations: Attracts a variety of large fish species, including lingcod and rockfish.
Anemone Fields: Enjoy the beauty of colorful anemone fields along the dive site.

Explore this sunken freighter ship, home to numerous marine species.

Historical Wreck: Provides a glimpse into the maritime history of the area.
Artificial Reef: Creates a thriving underwater habitat for various marine species.
Advanced Dive: Suitable for experienced divers due to depth and navigation challenges.

Snorkel in the shallow waters near Cates Park Beach, spotting starfish, sea anemones, and crabs.

Shallow Waters: Ideal for beginners and snorkelers looking for a gentle experience.
Beachfront Location: Easily accessible from the popular Cates Park Beach.
Rocky Reefs: Discover various underwater rock formations and marine life.

Dive into the waters surrounding Deep Cove, spotting seals, eels, and colorful fish.

Calm Waters: Ideal for beginners and snorkelers looking for a peaceful experience.
Beautiful Setting: Surrounded by picturesque mountains and forests.
Boat Access Only: Accessible only by boat, ensuring a secluded diving experience.

Snorkel in the calm waters of Stanley Park's Second Beach, spotting colorful fish and seaweed forests.

Calm Waters: Ideal for beginners and snorkelers looking for a gentle experience.
Urban Location: Located in the heart of Vancouver's cityscape.
Beachfront Access: Easily accessible from nearby Second Beach.

Dive into the waters surrounding Bowen Island, exploring this iconic shipwreck.

Historical Wreck: Provides a glimpse into maritime history as a former passenger ship.
Advanced Dive: Suitable for experienced divers due to depth and navigation challenges.
Marine Life Haven: Serves as a thriving underwater habitat for various marine species.

Dive into the waters surrounding this ecologically rich island, spotting seals, eels, and colorful fish.

Marine Biodiversity: Boasts a diverse range of marine life.
Accessible by Boat: Easily reachable from nearby boat launches on the Sunshine Coast.
Remote Island Setting: Provides a peaceful and secluded diving experience in a pristine wilderness area.

Snorkel in the clear waters of Whytecliff Park, spotting sea stars, octopuses, and colorful fish.

Shallow Waters: Ideal for beginners and snorkelers looking for a gentle experience.
Accessible by Car: Easily accessible by car with ample parking.
Rocky Reefs: Discover various underwater rock formations and marine life.