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Casa Verde

Casa Verde, off Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, is one of those sites that just feels right, like pulling on a well-worn pair of fins. It’s not about grand pelagic passes here. We love it for the sheer density of small stuff and the way the light filters through the water, illuminating the reef’s surprising textures. We've spent entire dives here within a 20-meter radius, just picking apart the details. The reef here isn't a towering wall, but a series of coral heads and rocky outcrops, dotted with massive starlet coral and delicate staghorn. Keep your eyes peeled amongst the sponges – the lavender rope sponge and variable boring sponge are everywhere – for things like the granular frog shell and the exquisite regal murex. We’ve had incredible luck spotting yellowline arrow crabs in the crevices. And while turtles aren't a guarantee, we’ve certainly shared the space with a leatherback or two slowly cruising by. Our tip? Go slow. Really slow. Bring a good macro lens if you're into photography, because the bluestriped grunts form these lazy, shimmering schools, but it's the little nut semele and circular Chinese-hats that are the real stars here. This is a site for divers who appreciate the subtle beauty, who are happy to hover and observe rather than chase. If you love discovering the intricate details of a thriving Caribbean reef, Casa Verde will be right up your alley.