It's easy to understand why North Carolina has been rated the #1 wreck diving destination before, luring many scuba divers every year from around the world. Apart from boasting a fabulous array of wrecks to explore, it also allows for up-close encounter with tiger sharks that live in the waters offshore.
Along the coast of North Carolina are multiple reefs consisting of beautiful sea fans and abundant marine life. Huge groupers, lobsters and giant stingrays make an appearance in the clear, warm waters of the Gulf Stream.
Schools of barracuda, greater amberjacks and the sand tiger sharks use the many sunken ships as their favourite hangouts. With 2.5 million acres of water, diving in North Carolina will continue to be a firm favourite with the diving community.
The peak scuba diving season for all of North Carolina is May-October with June- August being the most popular for calm conditions. Visibility generally spans 50 feet/15 meters, sometimes more throughout the year .
Water temperature in winter sees 72°F/22°C and as high as 85°F (30°C) in summer, averaging around 82°F/28°C.
For advanced divers, there are many drift, deep and night dives to enjoy here.
Major airports are located in Durham and Raleigh, North Carolina. Both airport are around 90 minutes drive to the coast.
For non diving days, head to the Blue Ridge Mountains for a hike along the hundreds of trails the region has to offer with amazing views. To immerse yourself in the history on land, Asheville is great to check out Biltmore Estate, one of the top small-town cities in the country.