The Catalina Islands in the Papagayo Gulf offer a consistent reef experience suitable for beginner divers. The site is accessed exclusively by boat, with dives typically conducted at a depth of 20 metres, though the area reaches 40 metres. Divers should monitor their depth closely. Conditions are generally manageable with mild currents, although surface surge or swell can occur. Visibility ranges from 5 to 10 metres. Water temperatures remain stable between 24 and 28 degrees Celsius throughout the year. As trips run regularly and boats can fill quickly, advance booking is recommended to secure a place on a guided excursion.

Brumel is a rock formation rising 29 metres above sea level, situated between Punta Zapotal and the Catalinas Islands near Playas del Coco. The site features a mix of natural reef and artificial reef structures. Divers and snorkellers can explore the semicircular perimeter, which offers sheltered conditions. Depths at this site range from 10 to 30 metres. Access is strictly by boat, with typical dives lasting around 45 minutes. Conditions are generally mild, with visibility ranging from 5 to 15 metres and water temperatures between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius. The site is suitable for beginners.

Brumel Deep in the Papagayo Gulf features a combination of natural reef and artificial reef structures. The site reaches depths of 20 metres, making it suitable for beginners who can remain in shallower areas. Visibility varies between 9 and 32 metres, with mild currents at depth. Water temperatures range from 24 to 28 degrees Celsius. Access is by boat only, and divers should note that surf and shore break can occur at the entry point. Species recorded around this area include Panamic Green Moray, King Angelfish, Whitetip Reef Shark, and various wrasses and groupers.

Arco Iris is a reef site located 8000 metres from the shore of Playas del Coco. Accessible only by boat, the site features depths ranging from 10 to 19 metres, with an average depth of 18 metres. Conditions at the site are variable, with shifting currents and fluctuating visibility. Divers should be aware of the presence of sharks and exercise caution regarding the wreck structure to avoid entanglement. Due to the unpredictable nature of the conditions, guided tours are recommended. Water temperatures remain between 24 and 28 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Facilities including air fills, equipment rental, and guided tours are available locally.

Guacamaya Island, located 500 metres from the shore in the Papagayo Gulf, offers reef diving and snorkelling accessible only by boat. The site features depths ranging from 5 to 22 metres, with an average depth of 12 metres. Conditions include moderate currents and variable visibility, making guided tours recommended for beginners. Water temperatures remain between 24 and 28 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Divers should be aware of boat traffic on the surface and exercise caution around sharp coral and rocks. Night diving is available at this location, with typical dives lasting approximately 50 minutes.

Playa Dantita is a secluded white-sand beach located near Playas del Coco. The site features a combination of natural reef and artificial reef structures, primarily accessed via a short hike from the nearby town. Snorkelling is concentrated around the northern rocky point, where depths typically range from 1 to 4 metres with an average of 3 metres. Conditions are generally suitable for beginners, with mild currents and visibility ranging from 5 to 15 metres. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, between 28C and 30C. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of sea urchins and sharp coral present in the area. Parking and cafe facilities are available for visitors.

Islotes Pitahayas is a cluster of rocky islets located 3200 metres offshore from Playas del Coco. This reef site features varied topography where the rock formations meet open water. Depths range from 5 to 18 metres, with an average of 10 metres. Conditions are variable, with visibility between 6 and 23 metres and moderate currents. Water temperatures typically range from 28C to 30C, though thermoclines can cause significant temperature drops. Access is by boat only. Hazards include boat traffic, sea urchins, sharks, strong currents, surf, and thermoclines. The site is suitable for beginners and offers a snorkel rating of 4 out of 5.

Playa Danta in Playas del Coco is a shore-entry reef site well-suited for beginners. The site features a shallow average depth of 3 metres, ranging between 2 and 4 metres. Snorkellers can explore the rocky areas where marine life is present. Visibility typically fluctuates between 5 and 15 metres, with mild currents. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, ranging from 28C to 30C. Species recorded around this area include wrasses, groupers, pufferfish, and various moray eels. Visitors should be aware of potential rip currents. Facilities at the beach include parking, a cafe, and equipment rental services.