Page 66 - NORTHERN GUANACASTE TOURIST GUIDE

Diving in Guanacaste
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Recommendations before diving
• The dive center should be affiliated with one of the international recreational diving organizations such as PADI.
• Personnel must be qualified and trained in rescue diving, oxygen first aid and medical first aid.
• The center must have the maintenance records posted for the equipment and compressors.
• The air in your compressor must be clean.
• The boat must have first aid equipment, oxygen in sufficient quantity and quality, a first aid kit, a staff member trained in first aid and the use of oxygen equipment, drinking water, basic tools and spares, communication equipment, dive flag, an emergency plan written in a manner understandable to all, and a divemaster lifejacket for divers and staff.
• Check the date of the last hydrostatic test of the diving equipment. It must be visible on the tank and must be less than one year old.
• Check the mouthpieces before diving.
Fuentes
ticotimes.net
viajar.elperiodico.com facebook.com/centrodebuceo.cuajiniquil
A calm sea with crystal-clear waters is the ideal environment for snorkeling. Guanacaste has no shortage. You will be able to choose between sites close to the beach that allow divers to choose their own route or ones that require taking a boat and going out to sea. Here are some of the best places to dive.
1. San Juanillo: one of the region’s best places to see the rich marine life. You can swim out to sea to see tiny blue and yellow fish, starfish and sea urchins. San Juanillo is located on the west coast and the nearest towns are Marbella to the north and Ostional, Nosara and Garza to the south. It is located 17 kilometers from Playa Guiones.
2. Isla Chora: almost 1.3 kilometers from Sámara. To get there you will have to travel by kayak or hire
a boat. Tours to the island cost around $40 per person. Note that it is best to visit the island during low tide. According to experts, the best time for snorkeling is during the dry season, because in the rainy season the waters become turbid after heavy rainfall. The island has a quiet white sand beach where the water is calm and another more rocky part with bigger waves.
3. Ocotal: located 40 km south of the city of Liberia, a few minutes from Playas del Coco. Its gentle waves make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, diving or just relaxing. The beach is surrounded by dry forest and protected by hills and rock formations.
4. Conchal: it is one of the best known beaches in
the province. It has crystal clear turquoise waters, making it the perfect place for swimming and snorkeling. Near the coast you can find a variety of marine life and go swimming with multicolored fish.
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