Cano Island

Cano Island, Costa Rica: Pacific Biodiversity Hotspot

Cano Island (Isla del Caño) is a biological reserve located 20 kilometers off Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula, one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. This protected marine area offers exceptional diving with abundant shark encounters, large schools of fish, and the chance to see species ranging from whitetip reef sharks to majestic manta rays. Often called "the poor man's Cocos Island," Cano Island delivers remarkable Pacific diving without the multi-day liveaboard commitment.

Dive Details

Depth, Visibility, and Temperature

Dive sites around Cano Island range from 12-30 meters (40-100 feet), with most dives conducted between 15-24 meters. Visibility varies significantly with seasons and currents, typically ranging from 10-25 meters (30-80 feet), with the best visibility during the dry season. Water temperature remains comfortable at 24-28°C (75-82°F) year-round, making a 3mm wetsuit sufficient for most divers, though a 5mm provides extra comfort on multiple dive days.

Difficulty Level

Cano Island is accessible to Open Water certified divers, though Advanced certification is recommended for the deeper sites and occasional current diving. The boat ride from Drake Bay can be rough, so those prone to seasickness should prepare accordingly. Currents at some sites can be moderate, and good buoyancy control helps when observing sharks and rays without disturbing them.

Marine Life

Cano Island's protected status has allowed marine life to flourish. Whitetip reef sharks are virtually guaranteed on every dive, often resting in sandy patches or cruising the reef. Schools of bigeye jacks, Pacific spadefish, and yellow snappers create mesmerizing walls of fish. Devil rays and manta rays are regular visitors, especially during plankton-rich months. Olive ridley and hawksbill sea turtles graze on the reef, while moray eels peek from crevices. Occasional visitors include whale sharks, bull sharks, and humpback whales (July-October above water).

Best Time to Visit

December through April (dry season) offers the best visibility and calmest seas, though marine life is excellent year-round. July through October brings humpback whale migration—while you won't dive with them, hearing their songs underwater is magical. The rainy season (May-November) has rougher boat conditions but often better shark and ray activity due to nutrient upwellings. Morning dives typically have better visibility than afternoon dives.

What Makes It Special

Cano Island offers Cocos Island-style diving at a fraction of the cost and time commitment. Day trips from Drake Bay make it accessible for travelers exploring Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula. The biological reserve status ensures healthy fish populations and reliable shark encounters. The island itself holds archaeological significance, with mysterious pre-Columbian stone spheres found on its shores. Above water, pristine rainforest meets white sand beaches; below, volcanic rock formations host thriving Eastern Pacific reef ecosystems.

Practical Tips

• Base in Drake Bay: Most dive operators run from Drake Bay, a 45-minute boat ride to the island. Book accommodation and diving together.
• Seasickness Preparation: The boat ride can be choppy, especially in rainy season. Take medication preventively if prone to motion sickness.
• Combine Activities: The Osa Peninsula offers incredible wildlife—scarlet macaws, monkeys, and jungle tours complement your diving days.
• Two-Tank Minimum: Most operators run two-tank trips. The sites are varied enough that each dive feels different.
• Respect the Reserve: No touching marine life, maintain distance from sharks, and follow all park regulations.
• Cash Ready: Drake Bay is remote; ATMs are limited. Bring sufficient cash for tips and extras.