There are several spots around the globe that boast unsurpassed ocean or sea waters filled with reefs and marine creatures. The following article discusses some of the best sea spots around the world.

Whale watching is at its best off Kaikoura, New Zealand—sperm whale-watching, in particular. Visitors here can frolic and dive with seals and dolphins year-round. Kaikoura is situated off the country’s South Island and is 180 kilometers to the north of Christchurch. The town’s peninsula juts well out into the see affording the region its wide array of marine animals—many of which come from the nearby Hikurangi Trench.

Not far away is Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef. Roughly nine hundred islands dot the reef, which is actually comprised of about three thousand single reefs. The abundance of marine flora and fauna is unsurpassed. Designated a World Heritage Site, the Great Barrier Reef is also considered one of the world’s seven natural wonders. Sharks, dolphins, whales, sea turtles, sea snakes, jellyfish and so much more can be seen on the Reef any given day.

For sea kayaking, Baja California, Mexico is considered the best. The Gulf of California, also known as the Sea of Cortez, is a magnificent stretch of water offering an abundance of wildlife and gorgeous beaches and inlets filled with bright sunshine and warm waters. Gray whales are a major attraction, but be sure to visit between January and March. Manta rays and leatherback sea turtles are also famed marine attractions here.

Killer whale, or orca, watching is at its best in the Johnstone Strait, British Columbia, Canada between June and August. Nearly seventy miles long, the strait is part of the Inland Passage and a major waterway for vessels. Orcas, which are considered the most intelligent marine life, migrate here to feed on the rich abundance of sockeye salmon. Seals, porpoises, and even gray whales can be viewed here as well.

The volcanic islands known as the Galapagos Islands were made famous by Charles Darwin, the father of the evolution theory. But, even today, these islands are renowned for their marine life. Named for their giant tortoises, the Galapagos Islands lie within Ecuador’s national park system and are protected by the nation. Many visitors come to see the famed marine iguana—the only place in the world where it is found. Sea lions, penguins, and a myriad of fish can also be seen year-round.

Scuba divers and snorkeling enthusiasts will want to check out Palau, Micronesia. Historically, this region was one of the last South Sea Islands to be discovered. Perhaps, this is why it retains its pristine natural charms so apparent in its majestic coral reefs. Its tropical climate makes it a year-round paradise for ocean-lovers. The Blue Hole is a famous dive spot for scuba divers.

On the other hand, if the cold weather does not deter you, than Svalbard, Norway is a super sea spot for viewing seals, seabirds, and, sometimes, even polar bears. This northern archipelago lies within the Arctic Sea, which means glacier watching is also the rule of the day here. Svalbard, which means “cold edge,” is also home to whales, dolphins, and walruses.

These sea spots frequently top best lists because of their rich aquatic life. Because they are world-famous, they boast good accommodations for visitors and support both tours and cruises. Other mentionable sea spots include Egypt’s Red Sea, Belize’s Barrier Reef, Alaska’s Prince William Sound, the island of Crete, Malaysia’s Sipadan Island, Grand Cayman’s Shark Alley, Cozumel, the Isle of Man, and South Africa’s Cape of Good Hope.

By J. A. Young