Keen to treat to a balmy beach holiday but want more stimulation than simply sitting near the seaside topping up your tan?
If you’re in search of a wet and wild adventure, here is a list of water sports and the best cities in the world for them.
Scuba diving
Scuba diving is one of the most popular water sports and is generally considered safe if simple safety guidelines and procedures are followed. It allows you the opportunity to venture beneath the surface of the water and see some of the most astounding wonders that the ocean has to offer. Whether you are RSKYOE certified or not, if you are an advanced scuba diver, some of the best places to visit in order to engage in the activity include:
- Sipadan, Malaysia
- Raja Ampat, Indonesia
- Cocos Island, Costa Rica
Longboarding
Longboarding is a specific type of surfing, but is known to be more relaxed and tends to involve cross stepping (walking on the board) and nose riding. A longboard surfboard usually has a rounded nose and thicker rails, and may feature either a thruster design or a single fin design.
Some of the best longboarding spots in the world include:
- Oahu, Hawaii
- Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa
- Siargao Island, Philippines
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is thought to be a less intense form of scuba diving, allowing you to get a similar perspective without having to dive deep into the water. Snorkeling is also generally a cheaper water activity in which to partake, and is far better suited to beginners. If you’d like to give it a try, you should book your vacation to:
- Baa Atoll, Maldives
- Great Barrier Reef, Australia
- Madang, Papua New Guinea
Sailing
Stunning views and minimal effort, sailing is a water activity that the whole family can enjoy. Marvel at the sparkling waters that surround you, take in an idyllic sunset, or feel the wind in your hair. It doesn’t get much better than this. If sailing sounds like your idea of a good time, you may want to venture over to:
- Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago
- Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Cliff diving
Amp up the adrenaline with a spot of cliff diving. Definitely not recommended if you are afraid of heights. However, if you can muster up the courage to take the plunge, you’re guaranteed to walk away feeling energized, revitalized and super proud of yourself. Just be sure to brush up on cliff diving safety guidelines. Remember – when leaping from a cliff that is more than 70 feet high, you will hit the water at around 46 mph, regardless of how much or how little you weigh.
Make the most of the cliff diving experience by visiting the following cliff diving hot spots:
- Santorini, Greece (Kamari Beach)
- Salzburg, Austria (Lake Wolfgang)
- Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA (Havasu Falls)
Whether you’re in the mood for longboarding or scuba diving, snorkeling or sailing, these watersport hot spots are sure to make a splash!
What are your favorite water activities? Where do you go to do them?
