One way to tune out all of the noise of this year is to escape into the water—we’re talking deep below the surface on a scuba diving trip. The sport is outdoors, inherently socially distanced, and offers a rare opportunity for adventure in our pandemic-defined world.

Even better—you don’t have to go far to do it. Whether your trip to an international diving locale was postponed or you’re strapping fins on for your first certified dive, there are a surprising number of worthy dive sites right here in the U.S. (And if you’re not scuba certified? Get started with PADI eLearning, which allows newbies to complete the academic portion of their PADI dive certification from home; experienced divers can partake in continuing education classes.) 

These six U.S.-based diving destinations offer something for every type of diver: unusual creatures, century-old shipwrecks, and funky rock formations. Plus, they’re in destinations worth planning a trip around, so we’ve included our favorite spots to eat, stay, and play when you’re not in the water. 

Read on for the best scuba diving in the U.S.