Diving in Southern Gulf of Mexico
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Southern Gulf of Mexico's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Southern Gulf of Mexico, ecoregion. This region features 5 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Southern Gulf of Mexico has something for every underwater explorer. Browse detailed spot information, check current conditions from recent dive logs, and connect with the local diving community to make the most of your visit.
Regional Context
🏛️ Marine Hierarchy
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in Southern Gulf of Mexico (2)
Popular Spots in Southern Gulf of Mexico (5)
C-50 Rivapalacios (Wreck)
The C-50 Rivapalacios is a decommissioned naval vessel from World War II, located off the coast of Isla Verde. It was intentionally sunk in 2000 to serve as an artificial reef. The wreck, measuring 180 feet in length, is positioned upright at a depth of approximately 90 feet. This site is designated for advanced divers due to its depth and potential conditions. The wreck is inhabited by a diverse array of reef fish, including longnose batfish, and features a variety of colorful corals and sponges.
Catedrales
Catedrales is located near Isla Verde in the Veracruz region of Mexico. This dive site features sub-tropical waters that host a variety of colorful fish species. Divers can explore unique rock formations and observe a diverse marine ecosystem. Commonly seen species include stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, and hogfish, along with the possibility of encountering sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks. This site is accessible only by boat.
Dedos
Dedos is an ocean dive site located off the eastern coast of Mexico, near Isla de Lobos. It accommodates both beginner and advanced divers, with most dives occurring at depths not exceeding 60 feet (18 meters). Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life typical of the Gulf of Mexico, including species such as stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, hogfish, and potentially sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks.
Kankirixche Cenote
Kankirixche Cenote is a freshwater sinkhole located in Abalá, Yucatan, Mexico. The site features clear waters and unique underwater formations, including tree roots and stalactites. While the aquatic life is limited, with only a few small fish present, divers are drawn to the cenote for its distinctive underwater topography. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving activities.
Manantial La Media Luna
Manantial La Media Luna is a thermal spring situated in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The site features warm, clear water that remains calm, making it suitable for beginner divers. Due to the thermal nature of the spring, most divers can dive without a wetsuit. The dive experience primarily involves exploring the warm waters and navigating through various rock swim-throughs. While the underwater environment includes green flora, marine life is limited, with only small fish present.