Looking For The 10 Best Places to Dive in Mexico?
If you’re looking for some of the best diving in the world, look no further than Mexico! The country is home to some incredible dive spots, including cenotes, coral reefs, and shipwrecks. Here are ten of the best places to dive in Mexico:
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- Cenote Angelita
- Cozumel
- Cabo Pulmo National Park
- Chinchorro Banks/ Banco Chinchorro
- Guadalupe Island/ Isla Guadalupe
- Isla Mujeres
- La Paz
- Puerto Escondido
- Socorro Islands
- Tulum
- Yucatan Peninsula
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1. Cenote Angelita
What is the History of Diving Cenotes in Yucatan?
Cenotes are natural sinkholes in the karst limestone of the Yucatan Peninsula. The word “cenote” comes from the Mayan word dzonot which means “a place where water is found.”
The cenotes are part of a system that is made up of an underground river and caves, which is a result of dissolved limestone. They were created by rainwater, which eroded the rock, forming underground rivers and caverns.
Cenotes have been used by humans for thousands of years. Caves near cenotes were used as burial sites or places to live in ancient times.
In modern times, they are popular tourist attractions where people can swim in the crystal clear water or explore underwater caves.
Cenote Angelita is one of the best places to dive in Mexico. This cenote is located in the Riviera Maya and is known for its clear waters and dramatic geological formations.
Cenote Angelita is a mesmerizing dive spot located in the Yucatan Peninsula. This cenote is known for its incredibly clear water, which allows divers to see all the way down to the bottom. Angelita is also home to a large number of fish, making it a great spot for snorkeling.
If you’re looking for an otherworldly diving experience, Cenote Angelita is a must-visit.
Diving Pro Tips
- Best Time To DIve: October and November are the best months to visit the southern Sea of Cortez.
- Water Temp: 72 to 84oF (24 to 28oC).
- Difficulty Level: All levels of diving, although the offshore seamounts can experience rough swell so are suited to more experienced divers.
- Closest Airport: Cozumel International Airport (CZM).
- Other Things To Do: Snorkeling with whale sharks and sea lions is a great experience for non-divers, as well as wildlife and fishing excursions, and kayaking trips.
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2. Cozumel
Cozumel is another great place to dive in Mexico. This island is located off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula and is known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life.
Cozumel is one of the most popular diving destinations in Mexico, and for good reason! This island is home to some amazing dive spots, including coral reefs, shipwrecks, and cenotes.
Divers can find something for everyone in Cozumel. The island’s coral reefs are teeming with marine life, while its shipwrecks are a haven for divers looking to explore sunken treasure.
Best Dive Sites in Cozumel for Beginners and Experienced Divers
Cozumel is one of the best diving destinations in the world. It has a variety of different dive sites to offer, so no matter what your skill level is, you will have something to see. The following are some of the best dives sites in Cozumel for beginners and experienced divers:
1) El Gran Cenote – this dive site is located near San Miguel de Cozumel. The maximum depth is 40 feet (12 meters). It has an average visibility of 50-100 feet.
2) Palancar Reef – this dive site can be found on the east side of Cozumel Island. The maximum depth is 60 feet (18 meters). The average visibility here is about 100-150 feet.
3) Chankanaab National Marine park – this dive site is located south of Cozumel and has an average depth of 20-40 feet.
4) Yucutan Cenote – this dive site is located on the west side of the island, near Punta Morena. The maximum depth here is about 40 feet (12 meters).
5) The Blue Hole – this dive site is located near Punta Morena, in the National Park. It has an average depth of 20-70 feet with a visibility of 15-35 feet .
Traveling To Cozumel Island: The island is located off the coast of Mexico and has a population of around 35,000 people. It can be reached by boat or plane.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving experience, Cozumel is the place to be.
Diving Pro Tips
- Best Time To DIve: Year Round
- Water Temp: 77F in winter and up to 85F in summer (25 to 29C).
- Difficulty Level: All levels of diving
- Closest Airport: Cozumel International Airport (CZM).
- Other Things To Do: Cozumel has plenty to do for the family holiday. It has plenty of beaches, resort activities, spas, shopping, restaurants, and a lively nightlife. Water sports include kayaking, paddle boarding and paragliding. Many cultural tours available to the Mayan ruins as well.
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3. Cabo Pulmo National Park
This park is home to some of the most diverse marine life in Mexico, .
Cabo Pulmo National Park is a marine park located in the Sea of Cortez near Baja California, Mexico. It is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth including coral reefs, sea turtles, and whales and it is also the only national park in Mexico that protects an area of mangroves.
The Cabo Pulmo National Park is home to a variety of aquatic life, including fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates. The diversity of marine life found here is incredible, with more than 400 species living in the area. Cabo Pulmo National Park also has some very interesting terrestrial animals including the endangered vaquita porpoise.
Cabo Pulmo National Park is a diving hotspot and you are sure to see incredible marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and rays.
Diving Pro Tips
- Best Time To DIve: Best time to spot whales December to May, however June to November offers best diving experience.
- Water Temp: 68F in winter to 80F in summer (20 to 27C)..
- Difficulty Level: Plenty of sites for all levels of diving near shore, sites further offshore require more experienced divers.
- Closest Airport: Los Cabos International Airport (SJD).
- Other Things To Do: Cabo Pulmo is pretty relaxed with snorkeling, kayaking and a beach. Cabo San Lucas is nearby however and offers all the things a Mexican resort town is known for.
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4. Chinchorro Bank
Chinchorro Banks is an experience that you will never forget. The Chinchorro Bank is located in the Pacific Ocean, south of the Gulf of California. The bank is a large underwater plateau that rises from the ocean floor to within less than 30 meters of the surface. It is a popular diving location for tourists and recreational divers.
The crystal clear waters and the abundance of marine life make this a dive destination that you will want to visit again and again. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, Chinchorro Banks has something to offer everyone.
Diving Pro Tips
- Best Time To DIve: Year round diving opportunities.
- Water Temp: 78F in winter to 82F in summer (25 to 28C).
- Difficulty Level: Dive opportunities for all levels.
- Closest Airport: Cozumel International Airport (CZM).
- Other Things To Do: Majahual has most recreational amenities like restaurants, local attractions, including waters ports and ATV hire.
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5. Guadalupe Island
If you’re looking for a truly unique adventure travel destination, look no further than Guadalupe Island. Guadalupe Island is an island off the coast of Baja California, Mexico and hosts some of the best scuba diving in the world.
It is a great place to scuba dive year round. But the best time to go diving in Guadalupe Island would be the fall from August to November . This isolated island off the coast of Mexico is home to the world’s largest population of great white sharks.
These apex predators can reach up to 20 feet in length and weigh more than two tons! If you’re brave enough, you can cage dive with these amazing creatures and get up close and personal with one of nature’s most awe-inspiring predators. Just be sure to bring your camera – you’re going to want to remember this experience for a lifetime!
The clear blue waters and diverse marine life make this a top dive destination. Hammerhead sharks, dolphins, and sea lions are just a few of the animals you can see while diving here.
Sharks have been known to attack humans when they feel threatened. Always heed the warnings of your tour guide and stay safe while diving with these amazing creatures.
The best time to dive Guadalupe Island is from September to November when the water temperatures are the warmest. This is also when the visibility is the best.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Guadalupe Island for an adventure you’ll never forget. Just be sure to keep an eye out for those sharks!
Diving Pro Tips
- Best Time To DIve: August to October are the best times.
- Water Temp: 70F to 75F (21 to 24C).
- Difficulty Level: Something for all levels
- Closest Airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN)..
- Other Things To Do: Live aboard activities only.
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6. Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island located just off the coast of Cancun. This island is known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, including fish, turtles, and dolphins.
Isla Mujeres is a small island off the coast of Cancun and Playa del Carmen. It is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and many other attractions. You can find many hotels and resorts on the island, but it is important to book your stay in advance to ensure you have a place to stay when you visit.
Divers can find something for everyone in Isla Mujeres. The island’s coral reefs are teeming with marine life, while its shipwrecks are a haven for divers looking to explore sunken treasure
- The cenotes of Riviera Maya are some of the best places to dive in Mexico
- El Bajio is a great place to dive for beginners
- Isla Contoy is a beautiful and remote island perfect for divers looking to get away from it all
- Puerto Morelos is home to some of the best reefs in Mexico
- San Miguel de Cozumel is one of the best places to see whale sharks in Mexico
Diving Pro Tips
- Best Time To DIve: Year-round diving. Best time to see a Whale shark is June -September, and sailfish sightings are in December-March
- Water Temp: 78F to 82F (25 to 28C).
- Difficulty Level: All levels of diving welcome here as well as great snorkeling.
- Closest Airport: Cancun International Airport (CUN).
- Other Things To Do: Isla Contoy nature reserve is nearby as well you can swim with dolphins, visit a turtle hatchery or go salt water fishing.
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7. Diving La Paz Mexico
La Paz is a city located on the Baja California Peninsula. This city is home to some of the best diving in Mexico, including Cabo Pulmo National Park and Isla Espiritu Santo.
If you’re looking for an exciting diving experience, La Paz is the place to be. This coastal town is home to some of the best diving in Mexico, including coral reefs, shipwrecks, and cenotes.
Divers can find something for everyone in La Paz. The town’s coral reefs are teeming with marine life, while its shipwrecks are a haven for divers looking to explore sunken treasure.
- Los Cabos is a great place to dive for beginners
- Isla Espiritu Santo is a beautiful and remote island perfect for divers looking to get away from it all
- San Jose del Cabo is home to some of the best reefs in Mexico
Diving Pro Tips
- Best Time To DIve: October and November are the best months to dive.
- Water Temp: 72F in winter to 84F in summer (24 to 28C).
- Difficulty Level: All levels of diving near shore but dives further can experience rough seas and are better left to experienced divers.
- Closest Airport: Manuel Márquez de León International Airport (LAP).
- Other Things To Do: Wildlife and fishing excursions, as well as kayaking. Or go snorkeling to see whale sharks and sea lions.
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8. Diving Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido is a small town located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico in the southern state of Oaxaca. This town is known for its waves, which make it a popular destination for surfers.
This coastal town is home to some of the best diving in Mexico, including coral reefs, shipwrecks, and cenotes.
Some of the diving hotspots, include Playa de la Ropa and Puerto Angelito.
Divers can find something for everyone in Puerto Escondido. The town’s coral reefs are teeming with marine life, while its shipwrecks are a haven for divers looking to explore sunken treasure.
- Huatulco is a great place to dive for beginners
- La Ventanilla is home to some of the best reefs in Mexico
- Mazunte is a beautiful and remote town perfect for divers looking to get away from it all
If you’re looking for an exciting diving experience, Puerto Escondido is the place to be.
Diving Pro Tips
- Best Time To DIve: October and November are the best months to visit the southern Sea of Cortez.
- Water Temp: 72 to 84oF (24 to 28oC).
- Difficulty Level: All levels of diving, although the offshore seamounts can experience rough swell so are suited to more experienced divers.
- Closest Airport: Manuel Márquez de León International Airport (LAP).
- Other Things To Do: Snorkeling with whale sharks and sea lions is a great experience for non-divers, as well as wildlife and fishing excursions, and kayaking trips.
9. Socorro Islands
Socorro Islands is a group of islands located in the Sea of Cortez located in the Pacific Ocean. This island chain is known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life, including sharks, rays, and dolphins.
Located about 240 miles southwest of Cabo San Lucas. The islands are a popular destination for divers, as they offer incredible diving, including coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life.
Divers can find something for everyone in the Socorro Islands. The islands’ coral reefs are teeming with marine life, while its shipwrecks are a haven for divers looking to explore sunken treasure.
- Cabo San Lucas is a great place to dive for beginners
- The Marietas Islands are home to some of the best reefs in Mexico
- The Socorro Islands are a popular destination for divers looking to see whale sharks
Diving Pro Tips
- Best Time To DIve: Year round but best time to see whale shark November-December, best time to see humpback whales is February-March.
- Water Temp: 70F in winter and up to 84F in summer (21 to 28C).
- Difficulty Level: Best for more experienced divers because of strong currents and rough seas.
- Closest Airport: Los Cabos International Airport (SJD).
- Other Things To Do: Liveaboard activities only.
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10. Diving Tulum Mexico
Tulum is a city located on the Caribbean Coast of Mexico. This city is home to some of the best diving in Mexico, including the cenotes of the Riviera Maya.
Divers can find something for everyone in Tulum. The town’s coral reefs are teeming with marine life, while its shipwrecks are a haven for divers looking to explore sunken treasure.
Divers can also find some of the best cenotes in Tulum. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that form when the roof of a cave collapses. These sinkholes are filled with freshwater, making them perfect for diving.
- Dos Ojos is a great place to dive for beginners
- Gran Cenote is one of the best places to see whale sharks in Mexico
- Angelita is a beautiful and remote cenote perfect for divers looking to get away from it all
- Tulum is a great place to dive for beginners
- Xel Ha is a beautiful and remote cenote perfect for divers looking to get away from it all
Diving Pro Tips
- Best Time To DIve: Year round, May to July best diving and not crowded like peak season from December to April
- Water Temp: 77F to 85F (25 to 29C).
- Difficulty Level: All levels of diving welcome here. Entrance caverns suitable for snorkelers and all divers. Deeper caves marked by a sign should only be explored with a guide with proper experience.
- Closest Airport: Cozumel International Airport (CZM).
- Other Things To Do: Tulum is a fully developed Mexican resort town with a full range of activities to entertain almost anyone.
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11. Exploring Yucatan Peninsula By Diving
The Yucatan Peninsula is a peninsula located in southeastern Mexico. This region is home to some world class diving in Mexico, including Cancun, Cozumel, and Tulum.
The Yucatan Peninsula is a popular destination for divers, as it offers some of the best coral diving in the world. The peninsula is home to some of the best coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life in Mexico.
Divers can find something for everyone in the Yucatan Peninsula. The peninsula’s coral reefs are teeming with marine life, while its shipwrecks are a haven for divers looking to explore sunken treasure.
- Cancun is a great place to dive for beginners
- Cozumel is home to some of the best reefs in Mexico
- Playa del Carmen is a great place to dive for beginners
- Akumal is a beautiful and remote town perfect for divers looking to get away from it all
- Isla Mujeres is a popular destination for divers looking to see whale sharks
Diving Pro Tips
- Best Time To DIve: Year round diving but May to July best diving and not crowded like the peak season from December to April
- Water Temp: 77F to 85F (25 to 29C).
- Difficulty Level: All levels of diving welcome here.
- Closest Airport: Cancun International Airport (CUN).
- Other Things To Do: Many resort towns and cities like Cancun, Tulum, Merida, with a full range of activities for everyone.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving experience, Mexico is the place to be. With its incredible marine life, beautiful reefs, and fascinating shipwrecks, there’s something for everyone in Mexico. So what are you waiting for? Grab your gear and head down to one of these amazing
Each of these destinations offers something unique for divers, from crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life to dramatic geological formations. So if you’re looking to explore the world beneath the waves, Mexico is definitely a place worth considering!
