Ultimate Guide to the Best Under Water Cities to Explore

Diving into underwater cities is more than just a trip beneath the waves. It is an exhilarating journey where ancient ruins meet vibrant marine life. These submerged sites narrate tales of civilizations lost over time, blending history and nature in spectacular ways. From legendary stories like Atlantis to real submerged towns, travelers have countless underwater cities to explore around the globe. Here, we dive into twenty-five mesmerizing underwater cities that will capture your imagination.

1. Atlantis, the Lost City

Wide angle view of underwater ruins resembling ancient columns — The legendary lost city of Atlantis submerged in ocean blue.

Atlantis has enchanted people for centuries. While many debate its reality, the story of an advanced civilization that vanished into the ocean has inspired generations. Speculators suggest it may lie somewhere in the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, igniting curiosity and adventure.

2. Heracleion, Egypt

High angle view of submerged ancient structures in Heracleion — The ancient city of Heracleion, once lost beneath the Mediterranean Sea.

Once a thriving Egyptian trading hub, Heracleion was rediscovered in 2000 after lying beneath the waves for over a millennium. Scuba diving in this area reveals impressive temples and grand statues. Artifacts such as coins and pottery date back to 600 BC, shedding light on a bustling maritime economy.

3. Dwarka, India

Eye-level view of underwater ruins of Dwarka — The mystical underwater city of Dwarka, associated with Hindu mythology.

Dwarka, often linked to Hindu beliefs as the kingdom of Lord Krishna, has been partially uncovered by divers. Off the coast of Gujarat, researchers found thousands of artifacts—such as beads, stones, and tools—between 10,000 to 15,000 years old, reflecting a vibrant ancient city beneath the water.

4. Baiae, Italy

Close-up view of underwater ruins displaying ancient mosaics in Baiae — The remnants of Baiae, a once luxurious Roman resort, now submerged in the Bay of Naples.

Baiae was once the Mediterranean playground for Roman elites. Its luxurious villas and impressive bath complexes, submerged due to volcanic activity and rising seas, can now be explored by snorkeling and diving. The site showcases stunning mosaics still in remarkable condition.

5. Port Royal, Jamaica

High angle view of underwater shipwrecks near Port Royal — The submerged city of Port Royal, known for its pirate history, lies beneath the Caribbean Sea.

Port Royal, infamous as the “wickedest city on earth,” met its demise in 1692 when an earthquake swallowed it. Divers can uncover shipwrecks and coins from its bustling pirate past. According to estimates, nearly 30 acres of this once-thriving port city now lie underwater.

6. Yonaguni, Japan

Wide angle view of mysterious underwater structures at Yonaguni — The ancient submerged structures at Yonaguni raise questions about their origins.

The Yonaguni Monument holds massive stone terraces that spark debate among researchers. Are they man-made or natural formations? Located off the coast of Yonaguni Island, divers flock to explore this fascinating underwater site, which dates back at least 10,000 years.

7. Lion City, China

High angle view of the submerged Lion City showcasing architectural structures — The Lion City, or Shicheng, lies submerged in Qiandaohu Lake in China.

The submerged Lion City, or Shicheng, is over 1,300 years old, with remarkably preserved streets and buildings. When the city was flooded to create Qiandao Lake, it became a beautiful diving destination, allowing a glimpse into an ancient civilization’s architecture.

8. Pavlopetri, Greece

Eye-level view of the ancient ruins in Pavlopetri, renowned for its underwater archaeological significance — Pavlopetri, believed to be the oldest submerged city, showcases intricate street layouts.

Recognized as one of the world’s oldest submerged cities, Pavlopetri dates back to 5,000 years. Its intricate street layouts and burial sites allow researchers to study ancient Greek urban life, presenting fascinating insights into early city planning.

9. Thonis, Egypt

High angle view of ruins of Thonis, displaying artifacts beneath the water’s surface — The ancient Egyptian city of Thonis, once a prominent port, now rests underwater.

Thonis, once a major port city, served as a gateway for traders entering Egypt. Underwater excavations have revealed thousands of artifacts, including pottery and coins, that offer insights into its vital role in ancient trade networks.

10. Shicheng, China

Wide angle view of the underwater landscape in Shicheng, known as the Lion City — The sunken Lion City or Shicheng is a captivating underwater archaeological site.

Not to be confused with the Lion City in Qiandao Lake, Shicheng is known for its stunningly well-preserved structures. A favorite among divers, its submerged paths and temples provide a window into ancient Chinese architecture and society.

11. The City of Dulichium, Greece

Eye-level view of ruins attributed to the ancient city of Dulichium — The ancient ruins of Dulichium offer glimpses into ancient Greek civilization submerged in the sea.

Dulichium, mentioned in Homer’s “Iliad,” offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Greek civilization. Submerged remains discovered near the coast provide researchers with materials for studying classical societies.

12. Ksynthos, Turkey

Close-up view of remnants of Ksynthos showing remnants of the ancient city — Ksynthos, a submerged ancient city in Turkey, hosts remarkable underwater ruins.

Excavations in Ksynthos reveal streets and buildings that showcase Hellenistic architecture. The site provides insights into urban planning and daily life in antiquity.

13. Settee Bay, Italy

Wide angle view of the submerged remains of Settee Bay — The tranquil underwater site of Settee Bay in Italy showcases the beauty of submerged structures.

Settee Bay boasts ruins from the Roman period that captivate divers who seek a serene environment. It is famous for its clear waters, allowing for stunning views of ancient structures.

14. Alexandria, Egypt

High angle view of the underwater structures around Alexandria — The underwater ruins near Alexandria hint at the historic city once bustling with activity.

Alexandria once stood as a center of ancient knowledge and features submerged landmarks, including the famed Lighthouse of Alexandria. Artifacts found here, such as sculptures and coins, reveal the rich history of trade and cultural exchange.

15. Christmas Island, Australia

Eye-level view of underwater fish habitat around Christmas Island — The rich marine life surrounding the submerged areas of Christmas Island.

Though not a city itself, Christmas Island is significant for its submerged cultural heritage. Historical artifacts, coupled with thriving marine ecosystems, create a unique diving destination reflecting both natural beauty and history.

16. Atlantis of the Sands, Yemen

Close-up view of underwater remnants believed to belong to Atlantis of the Sands — The mysterious underwater ruins off the coast of Yemen evoke legends of Atlantis.

Legend has it that Atlantis of the Sands holds ancient Arabian treasures. While many stories remain myths, the underwater discoveries along Yemen’s coast hint at a lost civilization waiting to be explored.

17. The Ruins of Ica, Peru

Eye-level view of the submerged structures of Ica, showcasing architectural remnants — The underwater city of Ica in Peru offers archaeological insights.

Ica, close to Peru’s southern coast, is home to underwater remnants that provide insights into pre-Columbian cultures. Findings include intricate pottery and relics that illustrate this region’s historical richness.

18. Kapitan Island, Cambodia

Wide angle view of the underwater landscape around Kapitan Island depicting ancient structures — Ancient submerged structures around Kapitan Island reveal historical significance.

The waters around Kapitan Island hold treasures from ancient civilizations, showcasing remnants that speak to rich cultural histories. It is a lesser-known treasure among divers seeking adventure.

19. The Sunken City of Pavlopetri, Greece

Eye-level view of the submerged cityscape in Pavlopetri — Pavlopetri is recognized as one of the oldest submerged cities, showing its historical layout underwater.

Pavlopetri is not just ancient; it’s crucial for understanding early urban life. This city, submerged for centuries, offers a unique chance to glimpse architectural designs and the daily lives of its past inhabitants.

20. Qinglong Hu, China

Close-up view of underwater remnants in Qinglong Hu showcasing ancient designs — Ancient ruins submerged in Qinglong Hu convey tales of a once-thriving civilization.

Qinglong Hu is a fantastic site revealing remnants of a city lost to time. Without extensive renovations, many artifacts remain intact, allowing divers a rare look into ancient architecture.

21. Atlantis II, Cuba

Wide angle view of underwater formations near Atlantis II off the coast of Cuba — The curious formations near Atlantis II site off the coast of Cuba create intrigue about ancient civilizations.

The underwater formations near Cuba mystify researchers and divers alike. This area raises more questions than answers, heightening interest in ancient civilizations potentially lost to the ocean.

22. Basra, Iraq

Eye-level view of the underwater ruins near Basra, known for its historical significance — The submerged historical remnants near Basra provide insights into ancient Mesopotamian society.

The underwater ruins near Basra are critical for understanding ancient Mesopotamian society. As researchers uncover these remains, they illuminate the fascinating relationship between water and human culture.

23. Lake Titicaca, Bolivia

High angle view of ruins submerged in Lake Titicaca — The submerged remains of ancient cultures in Lake Titicaca tell a story of heritage and history.

Lake Titicaca features systematic remains from the Tiwanaku civilization, creating a historical connection for local communities. Many locals consider it a sacred site adorned with mythological significance.

24. The Dragon’s Triangle, Japan

Wide angle view of mysterious underwater formations in the Dragon's Triangle — The underwater formations in the Dragon’s Triangle hint at civilization myths and mysteries.

Shrouded in mystery, the Dragon’s Triangle holds submerged ruins that contribute to local legends. Divers brave enough to explore this area are met with swirling waters and captivating visual stories.

25. Lake Neuchâtel, Switzerland

Close-up view of submerged artifacts in Lake Neuchâtel showcasing ancient lifestyles — Artifacts submerged in Lake Neuchâtel reflect the historical lifestyle of ancient cultures.

Lake Neuchâtel is a tranquil location where submerged artifacts tell the stories of ancient cultures. Artifacts discovered here reveal daily life details and traditions long lost to history.

Exploring These Underwater Cities

As you embark on your adventures, these twenty-five underwater cities promise to unveil exciting layers of history along with the wonders beneath the waves. Each site invites you to explore fascinating tales of lost worlds, rich cultures, and ancient mysteries. Whether you are a skilled diver or simply curious about the past, these hidden gems beneath the surface are waiting for you to uncover their stories!

KW Adventure Explorer