If you’re a diver seeking a thrilling, unforgettable underwater encounter, hammerhead shark diving is definitely a must-try! With their distinct, flattened heads and unique eyes, they are indeed one of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. In this article, we’ll take you through the top destinations in the world to dive with hammerhead sharks. Let’s check it out!
Best Time and Best Places to Dive With Hammerhead Sharks
1. Banda Sea
The Banda Sea in Indonesia is one of the best hammerhead diving spots in the world. Thanks to its remote location, this sea offers plenty of opportunities to encounter large groups of scalloped hammerhead sharks. Sometimes, these sharks even gather in hundreds, which is a rare phenomenon in other parts of the world. If you’re wondering where the Banda Sea is and how to dive there, liveaboard diving trips are an excellent way to explore its depths.
The Banda Sea is also home to some of the world’s most vibrant and healthiest coral reefs. If you plan to visit, the best time to dive with hammerheads in the Banda Sea would be around March and May or September and November, known to be the hammerhead seasons.
2. Cocos Island
Known as the “Island of Sharks”, Cocos Island National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica is hailed as one of the best destinations for diving with hammerhead sharks. Massive schools of scalloped hammerheads often gather in this region, particularly in dive sites like Alcyone and Dirty Rock.
Not just hammerheads, you can also expect to encounter other creatures like Galapagos sharks, silky sharks, manta rays, whale sharks, and even tiger sharks if you’re lucky! Planning to go diving at Cocos Island? Be sure to plan your visit during the rainy season from June to November. This period is known as the best time for hammerhead sightings around Cocos.
3. Tubbataha Reef
As a part of the Coral Triangle and a UNESCO Heritage Site, you can also find schools of hammerhead sharks in the Philippines’ Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. Located in the remote parts of the Sulu Sea, this scuba diving destination will charm you with its vibrant reefs, abundant marine life, and strong currents that attract pelagic species, including the fascinating hammerhead sharks. If you’re planning a dive trip, don’t miss exploring the top dive sites for liveaboard diving in Tubbataha Reef to maximize your underwater adventure.
In the Tubbataha Reef, the hammerheads are often found in the Malayan Wall and Jessie Beazley Reef, particularly in deeper waters. South Atoll is another great hammerhead shark site. To ensure a memorable experience, check out this complete guide to diving in the Tubbataha Reefs. Make sure that you visit this region from March to June.
4. Galapagos Island
Galapagos Island’s remote location and protected marine area make it one of the best places in the world to see hammerhead sharks. In fact, diving in the Galapagos Island offers you the rare opportunity to see these impressive sharks gathering in large schools, oftentimes up to several hundred.
To get the best experience of diving with scalloped hammerhead sharks, head around the northern islands of Darwin and Wolf, areas that are known to be the largest shark biomass on the planet You can also occasionally spot them around Kicker Rock. However, be sure to visit Galapagos Island around December to April, particularly around January, which is the best time to see hammerhead sharks in Galapagos.
5. Bimini
When talking about places that have the best hammerhead shark diving experiences, the island of Bimini in the Bahamas must not be skipped! As a popular diving destination, this region is famous for its uniquely high concentration of great hammerhead sharks. What’s more, diving in the Bahamas, particularly Bimini, often occurs in shallow water, making it ideal for photography and longer encounters.
Aside from the hammerheads, you also have ample opportunities to encounter nurse sharks, bull sharks, rays, and various reef fish. If you wish to visit this region, be sure to plan your trip around December to March, which is the dry season and also the best time to dive with hammerheads in Bimini.
Is it Safe to Dive with Hammerhead Sharks?
Though the size and appearance may intimidate some people, diving with hammerhead sharks is generally considered safe when done properly and/or under the guidance of experienced dive operators. Often curious yet cautious, hammerheads rarely display aggression towards humans and tend to be more interested in food sources rather than divers.
However, you’re highly recommended to maintain a respectful distance and display calm behaviours. In general, when you’re diving around these creatures, it’s best to stay still or move slowly, keeping your arms close to the body to avoid any sudden movements that could startle the sharks.
Hammerhead Shark Diving Tips
1. Choose a Reliable Dive Operator
To make sure that you have a safe and enjoyable diving experience with these fascinating sharks, the first thing you have to do is pick an experienced and reliable dive operator. Experienced operators often know how to interact with the sharks and will guide you through safe diving practices.
2. Stay Calm and Still
Hammerheads are naturally curious creatures, but they can be easily startled. To prevent any disturbances, avoid sudden movements or splashing, as these can cause them to run away or behave unpredictably.
3. Maintain a Safe Distance
When diving, make sure that you maintain a safe distance to respect the sharks’ spaces. Generally, you’re recommended to maintain a distance of at least 10-15 feet to avoid startling them. If possible, try to position yourself so that you’re in their line of sight rather than directly or above them. This is to avoid intimidating them and allow them to have a better view of you.
4. Use the Right Gear
Scuba diving with hammerhead sharks often takes place in clear, shallow waters. Therefore, you may want to consider bringing a wide-angle camera lens to capture the schools of sharks, especially if you’re into underwater photography. You’re also highly recommended to wear a wetsuit with neutral colours to avoid attracting unnecessary attention.
Dive Logistics: Liveaboard or Day Dives?
When planning your dive trip, you might wonder what’s the best diving logistics to choose: liveaboard or day dives? Both of these options have their unique advantages for diving with this species of shark, but the best choice often depends on the destination and what kind of diving experience you’re after.
With liveaboards, you can have extended access to remote sites, which means you can have quieter hammerhead encounters with less diver traffic. You can also do 3-4 dives a day, maximizing your chances of seeing the hammerheads and other shark species. It’s also a great option if you’re planning to go to places like the Banda Sea, Cocos Island, and the Galapagos Island.
On the other hand, day dives can be a great alternative if you’re planning on a more affordable and shorter trip. You can stay on land and enjoy local amenities, which may be more comfortable for some divers. Places like Bimini can be great for day dives, as the hammerheads in this region are seen regularly and close to the shores.
Time to Explore Hammerhead Shark Dive Spots with Solitude World!
Ready to explore the best hammerhead shark diving destinations? Come explore them with Solitude World’s Liveaboard and Resorts! We offer liveaboard and diving resort options that can take you to some of the best diving spots in the world, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and Palau.
In fact, our Solitude Adventurer is ready to take you on a thrilling 9 days diving adventure in the Banda Sea, while Solitude One offers you the chance to explore a 7-day Tubbataha Reef diving trip!
With our liveaboard dive trip, you can explore various diving sites, even remote ones, and enjoy multiple dives a day. Once you’re satisfied with your underwater adventure, hop on back to retreat into your cozy room and recharge your energy with warm, hearty meals. Our PADI-certified dive guides are always ready to give you any assistance you need during your dive!
What are you waiting for? Book your next diving adventure with us here today!