When To Go · Destination Guide
Drift the walls, chase winter eagle rays, and meet Cozumel's iconic toadfish
Updated Oct 30, 2025 • 17 sources
When to go
Diving is viable yearround.
Best overall window
Usually calmer seas, long boat days, 28°C water.
Outside that window
Warmer water, higher humidity, tropical systems possible AugOct.
Start with the overall answer, then switch only when scuba, freedive, snorkel, or topside timing changes the trip in a meaningful way.
The overall row stays visible so you can compare it against the currently selected scope.
| Scope | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | Overall - Jan: Good | Overall - Feb: Good | Overall - Mar: Best | Overall - Apr: Best | Overall - May: Best | Overall - Jun: Best | Overall - Jul: Tradeoffs | Overall - Aug: Tradeoffs | Overall - Sep: Tradeoffs | Overall - Oct: Tradeoffs | Overall - Nov: Good | Overall - Dec: Good |
These do not replace the overall planner. Use them only if a specific animal or event is driving your trip dates.
Spotted Eagle Rays
Best for Scuba
Dec to Mar
Look for flights of eagle rays at northern sites like Cantarel and San Juan when conditions and port status allow.
Sea Turtle Nesting
May to Aug
Turtles nest on island beaches.
Splendid Toadfish
Best for Snorkel, Scuba
Year-round
Iconic local toadfish under ledges on Paradise, San Francisco, and other reefs yearround.
Carnaval Cozumel
Best for Topside
Feb
Islandwide parades and music in San Miguel enliven evenings between dive days.
Built from climate references, access rules, and destination operators. Wildlife timing and route flexibility can shift year to year.