Diving in North Carolina

Explore 165 dive sites in North Carolina, United States. Ocean conditions, marine species, and dive centres.

Marine Life in North Carolina

Home to 42 recorded species including 38 reef fish, 2 clams & mussels, 2 other.

Dive Site Difficulty in North Carolina

North Carolina has 2 beginner, 3 intermediate dive sites - suitable for divers of all levels.

Marine Protected Areas in North Carolina

  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category V)
  • Cape Lookout National Seashore - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category V)
  • Currituck National Wildlife Refuge - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category IV)
  • Bald Head Island State Natural Area - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category Ia)
  • Fort Macon State Park - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category IV)
  • Bird Island Coastal Reserve - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category IV)
  • NOAA's Monitor National Marine Sanctuary - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category IV)
  • North Carolina National Estuarine Research Reserve - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category IV)
  • Big Foot Island - Conservation Area (IUCN Category V)
  • Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge. - National Wildlife Refuge (IUCN Category Ib)
  • Heritage Shores - Nature Preserve (IUCN Category V)
  • Lea Island - State Natural Area (IUCN Category V)
  • Masonboro Island - National Estuarine Research Reserve (IUCN Category V)
  • New Dump Island - Conservation Area (IUCN Category V)
  • Several Islands Audubon - Preserve (IUCN Category V)
  • Shell Island Audubon - Preserve (IUCN Category V)
  • Wainwright Island Audubon - Preserve (IUCN Category V)
  • Wildlife Resources Commission Island C 05-06 - Conservation Area (IUCN Category V)
  • Sea Turtle Sanctuary - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category IV)
  • Masonboro Island - State Park (IUCN Category III)
  • Bird Island - Coastal Reserve (IUCN Category V)
  • Fort Macon State Park Dedicated Nature Preserve - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category V)
  • Masonboro Island Estuarine Reserve Dedicated Nature Preserve - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category V)
  • Masonboro Island State Natural Area - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category V)
  • Rachel Carson Estuarine Reserve Dedicated Nature Preserve - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category IV)
  • Zekes Island Estuarine Reserve Dedicated Nature Preserve - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category V)
  • Currituck Banks - National Estuarine Research Reserve (IUCN Category V)
  • Rachel Carson - National Estuarine Research Reserve (IUCN Category V)
  • Zekes Island - National Estuarine Research Reserve (IUCN Category V)
  • Currituck - National Wildlife Refuge (IUCN Category IV)
  • Snow's Marsh Island - Private Conservation (IUCN Category V)
  • Currituck Banks Estuarine - Reserve (IUCN Category V)
  • Cape Hatteras - National Seashore (IUCN Category V)
  • Cape Lookout - National Seashore (IUCN Category V)
  • Queen Anne's Revenge Shipwreck - Marine Protected Area (IUCN Category IV)

Getting to North Carolina - Nearest Airports

  • Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN), New Bern - 17 km away, approx 33 min travel time
  • Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), Raleigh/Durham - 198 km away, approx 231 min travel time
  • Norfolk International Airport (ORF), Norfolk - 216 km away, approx 251 min travel time

Dive Sites

Dive Centres

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical water conditions and visibility like for scuba diving in North Carolina?
Specific data on typical water conditions and visibility for scuba diving in North Carolina is not provided in this context. However, divers can expect a diverse range of environments across the 171 dive sites, from the famous 'Graveyard of the Atlantic' wrecks to various reefs. For the most current conditions, it's always best to consult one of the 43 local North Carolina dive centers.
What kind of marine life, especially sharks, can divers expect to encounter in North Carolina's dive regions?
Divers in North Carolina can specifically expect to encounter impressive sand tiger shark aggregations, a highlight of diving in this region. The 'Graveyard of the Atlantic' also provides rich habitats around its numerous wrecks and reefs for various other marine life. For a comprehensive look at potential encounters, explore our wildlife database.
What are considered the best and most popular dive sites in North Carolina, particularly for wreck diving?
North Carolina is famously known as the 'Graveyard of the Atlantic,' offering an unparalleled experience for wreck diving enthusiasts. Among its 171 dive sites, popular choices include significant WWII U-boat wrecks like the Wreck of U-85 and the Wreck of U-701. Other notable wreck dives include the USS Schurz (Wreck) and the Papoose (Wreck), showcasing the region's rich maritime history.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in North Carolina, considering seasonal variations in weather and marine life?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for scuba diving in North Carolina, nor does it detail seasonal variations in weather or marine life. However, with 43 dive centers in the region, local experts can provide the most accurate information on seasonal conditions. For general guidance on planning your dive trip, you can also consult our when to dive resource.
What experience level is recommended for scuba diving North Carolina's offshore wrecks and more challenging dive sites?
For the majority of North Carolina's 171 dive sites, including its renowned offshore wrecks, an intermediate experience level is recommended. While most sites like the Wreck of U-85 are suited for intermediate divers, there is also a beginner-friendly option at Mystery Lake Scuba Park. Always ensure your certification matches the demands of your chosen dive.
How do divers typically access the main dive regions and offshore sites along the North Carolina coast?
While the provided data does not explicitly detail access methods, divers typically access North Carolina's main dive regions and offshore sites via boat charters. With 43 dive centers operating in the area, these facilities are the primary point of contact for arranging trips to the 171 dive sites, including the famous 'Graveyard of the Atlantic' wrecks. It is advisable to contact a local dive center to arrange your offshore excursions.
Are there any specific currents, thermoclines, or other environmental factors divers should be aware of when planning dives in North Carolina?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding currents, thermoclines, or other unique environmental factors for diving in North Carolina. However, given the region's extensive offshore wreck diving, divers should always be prepared for varying conditions. It is highly recommended to consult with one of the 43 local dive centers for up-to-date information on site-specific conditions before planning your dives.
Beyond historical shipwrecks, what other unique underwater features or types of diving are available in North Carolina?
Beyond its renowned historical shipwrecks, North Carolina offers diverse reef diving experiences among its 171 dive sites. Examples include natural and artificial reefs like Gwynn Island Reef and Radio Island Rock Jetty. These reef environments are also home to significant sand tiger shark aggregations, providing unique opportunities for marine life encounters.