Diving in Tropical East Pacific
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Tropical East Pacific's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Tropical East Pacific, province. This region features 81 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Tropical East Pacific 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
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in Tropical East Pacific (10)
Sub-regions in Tropical East Pacific (1)
Popular Spots in Tropical East Pacific (81)
Agua Caliente
Agua Caliente is a dive site located on Lake Atitlan in Guatemala, characterized by a shallow overhead environment that allows divers to experience a unique setting reminiscent of a bar. The site is home to various black bass, and divers can observe bright green vegetation near the surface. Dive guides from ATI Divers are available to assist with identifying the diverse flora and fauna of the lake.
Alcyone, Cocos Island
Alcyone is an underwater mountain located off Cocos Island, characterized by strong to very strong currents. Divers will need to descend using a rope, reaching a maximum depth of 30 meters. This site is known for its frequent sightings of large schools of hammerhead sharks, typically numbering between 150 to 200 individuals. Additionally, dolphins and Galapagos sharks are commonly observed, along with the presence of large marble rays. Due to the challenging conditions, this dive site is recommended for experienced divers only.
Arco Iris, Brumel Island
Arco Iris is situated 8 kilometers north of Playa Potrero, accessible via a shore entry. The dive site features a rock formation extending from the northwest side of Brumel Island in a northerly direction. Divers can expect to encounter white tip reef sharks, with depths ranging from 10 to 30 meters (33 to 100 feet). The area is also known for sightings of various ray species and large schools of fish, making it a notable location for marine life observation.
Bajo Negro, Black Rock
Bajo Negro, also known as Black Rock, is situated within the National Park of Santa Rosa, specifically on Bat Island. This dive site is approximately 45 kilometers from Potrero. Divers may experience sudden encounters with marine life, such as sailfish and schools of barracuda, making it an unpredictable yet intriguing dive. The site can experience strong currents, which may require divers to have some experience. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Bajo Piñon
Bajo Piñon is located in the Canales de Afuera area, adjacent to Isla Afuerita. Divers can identify the entry point by a rock at the surface, leading to two distinct rock formations. The dive begins in a shallow region before progressing to deeper and more challenging areas. Marine life at this site includes turtles, white tip reef sharks, and a variety of reef fish. Additionally, the top of the reef offers opportunities for macro photography, making it a suitable spot for divers with cameras.
Bat Island: Big Scare, Gran Susto
Bat Islands, part of the Murcielago Archipelago within the Santa Rosa National Park, are recognized as a premier location for bull shark encounters, particularly from April to November. The site, known as 'Big Scare,' is characterized by its depth, making it suitable only for advanced certified divers. In addition to bull sharks, divers may also observe various species of rays, including oceanic mantas. The area is protected, contributing to its rich marine biodiversity.
Brumel deep
Brumel Deep is accessible via a 20-minute boat ride from Marina Flamingo. This dive site is suitable for both novice and certified divers, particularly favored during periods of strong winds due to its sheltered location compared to the main Catalina Islands. Divers can choose to explore either the southern or northwestern sections of the site. Marine life includes a variety of tropical reef fish such as angelfish, barber fish, cornetfish, damselfish, and wrasses. Additionally, sightings of whitetip reef sharks, stingrays, and mobula rays are possible.
Brumel shallow
Brumel Shallow is a dive site located at coordinates 10.507900, -85.822100, accessible via shore entry. This site is particularly suitable for beginner divers and is often chosen during periods of strong winds due to its sheltered environment compared to the main Catalina Islands. Divers typically head south from the entry point, with a maximum depth of approximately 14 meters. The marine life here includes various tropical reef fish such as angelfish, barber fish, cornetfish, damselfish, and wrasses. Larger species like sharks are infrequent due to the shallow nature of the site.
Buffet
Buffet is a shore entry dive site where divers can descend along a buoy line to reach depths of approximately 12 meters, leading to a reef that extends down to about 28 meters. The area is characterized by various rock formations, providing habitat for a diverse range of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter numerous sharks, a variety of moray eels, large schools of barracudas, and different species of jacks throughout the dive.
Cadena
Cadena is a dive site characterized by a flat sandy bottom interspersed with rubble patches, providing two distinct habitats that support a variety of marine life. The site is sheltered from currents, making it accessible for divers of all experience levels. The maximum depth reaches 15 meters, allowing for a diverse underwater experience. Commonly observed species include reef stingrays, whitetip reef sharks, lobsters, octopuses, damselfish, butterflyfish, surgeonfish, grunts, and snappers.
Casa Del Árabe
Casa Del Árabe is located just outside of Acapulco Bay and offers divers the opportunity to explore various rock formations and some coral structures. The site is home to a variety of semi-tropical Pacific marine life, including octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, and several species of fish such as butterflyfish, angelfish, and damselfish. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to experience the local underwater ecosystem.
Casa del Mundo
Casa del Mundo is a dive site located in Lake Atitlan, accessible by boat. The site features deep and clear waters with small freshwater reefs positioned along the steep cliffs. A notable aspect of this dive is the ability to touch the sandy bottom at the base of the volcano, where the sediment retains heat. The surrounding landscape includes towering volcanoes and lush jungles, contributing to the unique underwater environment.
Catalinas Island, Clásico
Catalinas Island, Clásico is located 11 kilometers west of Potrero and Flamingo. This dive site is situated on the western side of the islands and offers a variety of diving options, accommodating different certification levels. Depths range from 10 meters to over 30 meters, featuring successive ripraps. Divers can encounter a diverse array of marine life, including white tip sharks, schools of various fish, moray eels, octopus, stingrays, eagle rays, mobula, manta rays, groupers, and turtles.
Catalinas Island, North
Catalinas Island, North is situated 11 kilometers from Flamingo on the eastern side of the island. This dive site is characterized by its sheltered conditions, making it suitable for beginner divers. The dive extends from the center of the island to its northern tip. While the site is not particularly known for diverse marine life, divers can encounter a variety of reef fish. With some luck, sightings of rays and sharks may also occur.
Chiliguaro
Chiliguaro is a small dive site located on the peninsula between Playas del Coco and Playa Hermosa. The rocky formations provide excellent habitats for various macro marine life, including nudibranchs, seahorses, and other small creatures. Divers can also encounter octopuses, turtles, rays, and resting sharks, along with schools of fish. This site is particularly suitable for macro photography due to the diverse and vibrant marine life present.
Coco Bay
Coco Bay features a sandy bottom that provides a calm environment ideal for training activities. Divers can practice essential skills such as rescue techniques and navigation in these tranquil conditions. The sandy substrate supports a surprising variety of marine life, including occasional sightings of seahorses, nudibranchs, snake eels, and pufferfish. Each small rock in this area serves as a habitat for various organisms, contributing to the biodiversity of the site.
Complejo Aquatico Medellin
Complejo Aquatico Medellin serves as the largest facility in Colombia dedicated to aquatic and underwater activities. It functions as a comprehensive training center catering to individuals of all ages, including children, youth, and adults, across various aquatic disciplines. The site is frequently utilized for national and international competitions, showcasing its extensive infrastructure. Entry to the site is via shore access, making it convenient for participants to engage in their activities directly from land.
Corridas
Corridas is located at the corner of Coco Bay and features two closely situated rocks or low pinnacles surrounded by sandy areas. Divers can explore both formations within a single dive. The site is particularly known for its diverse ray population, where sightings of multiple ray species, including eagle rays, longtail stingrays, butterfly rays, bullseye electric rays, and devil rays, are common.
Cuatro piedras, Catalina Islands
Cuatro Piedras, located at the Catalina Islands, features a dive site that is well-suited for novice divers due to the presence of a shallow sandy area nestled between rocks. However, divers should be aware that currents can occasionally make it challenging to remain in this sandy patch. The dive site includes various channels, particularly towards the southern end, which may complicate navigation. Depths range from 7 to 28 meters. Marine life commonly observed here includes tropical reef species such as angelfish, barber fish, cornetfish, damselfish, and wrasses. Additionally, sightings of whitetip reef sharks and mobula rays are possible.
Devil Pinnacle
Devil's Pinnacle rises from a depth of 40 meters (130 feet) to just 4 meters (12 feet) below the surface. You will encounter various marine life including jacks, barracudas, snappers, moray eels, and both bull and whitetip reef sharks. The site features black corals, gorgonians, and fan corals.
Dirty Rock
Dirty Rock, located off Costa Rica's Cocos Island, is an advanced dive site with depths ranging from 10 to 35 meters and visibility exceeding 30 meters. Divers can encounter schools of hammerhead sharks, horse-eyed jacks, turtles, eagle rays, and reef sharks. Due to strong currents, this site is recommended for experienced divers only.
Don Juan
Don Juan is a suitable dive site for beginners and those looking to build confidence in their diving skills. The area features expansive sandy sections on both sides of the reef, minimizing the risk of coral damage. Divers can enjoy a vibrant view of the surrounding reef life. The site is home to colorful snappers and a significant school of small bigeye jacks, making it an engaging experience for divers. The entry to the site is from the shore, providing easy access for divers.
El Bajo
El Bajo is located approximately 25 minutes from the port of Bahia Solano. The dive site features four main rounded rocks with depths ranging from 8 to 10 meters, while three larger rocks reach depths between 12 and 18 meters, marking the maximum depth of the site. The area is rich in marine life, hosting both resident and visiting species, including whale sharks, humpback whales, and various nudibranchs. This site is accessible by boat.
El Canal - Acapulco
El Canal in Acapulco is characterized by its small canyons, large boulders, and sandy substrates. The site offers varying depths suitable for both snorkeling and deeper diving. Marine life commonly observed includes nudibranchs, turtles, seahorses, eagle rays, and various fish species such as doctor fish, puffer fish, and trumpet fish.
El Jardin
El Jardin is a dive site located off the coast of Acapulco, characterized by a diverse array of hard and soft corals. This site offers a shallow diving experience, making it accessible for divers of various skill levels. Marine life commonly observed here includes Balloonfish, Scorpionfish, Stingrays, Boxfish, Moray Eels, Starfish, Turtles, Barberfish, Sergeant Major fish, Blennies, Surgeonfish, and Eagle Rays. The site is known for its vibrant underwater ecosystem and is ideal for those looking to explore a rich marine environment.
El Rincon - Acapulco
El Rincon, located in Acapulco, offers a sheltered environment suitable for snorkeling and shallow diving, particularly for beginners and those pursuing various diving specialty courses. The dive site reaches depths of up to 12 meters, providing ample opportunity to explore a diverse range of marine life. Notable attractions include artificial reefs that support a variety of species. Divers can expect to encounter butterflies, angelfish, trumpetfish, surgeonfish, seahorses, nudibranchs, moray eels, and rays. The flora includes various sponges and corals, contributing to the site's ecological richness.
El Secreto
El Secreto is located a short 20-minute ride from La Pescadería de Malpaís, situated just beyond the Cabo Blanco Absolute Natural Reserve. This dive site offers a variety of conditions depending on the current; divers may experience strong currents that allow for a dynamic exploration of the area or calmer waters that facilitate a more leisurely dive. The site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers looking to explore the underwater environment.
El Secreto 2
El Secreto 2 is a dive site with a maximum depth of approximately 18 meters. The relatively flat bottom creates an ideal habitat for smaller fish species. Its proximity to the open ocean attracts larger pelagic species, including sharks, which can often be seen following the currents. Marine life at this site includes humpback whales, false killer whales, whitetip reef sharks, hawksbill sea turtles, octopuses, lobsters, and various reef fish.
Escorpiones
Escorpiones is situated on a shallow ledge with depths ranging from 10 meters (30 feet) to 20 meters (70 feet). The rocky formations provide shelter for various small marine creatures, while the adjacent sandy areas are frequented by larger species. Divers can often observe white tip reef sharks and eagle rays in the sandy regions near the rocks. The rocky structures themselves are inhabited by a variety of marine life, including octopus, nudibranchs, moray eels, and scorpionfish.
Estudiantes
Estudiantes is a shallow dive site characterized by a sandy bottom and calm waters, making it suitable for beginner divers and students. The site is also appealing to experienced divers due to the rich marine life present. Notably, divers can observe large schools of balloon fish, often numbering in the hundreds. Additionally, the area is home to various macro critters, moray eels, octopuses, and a variety of schooling fish, enhancing the overall diving experience.
Faro
Faro offers divers a unique experience with shallow areas at both ends for easy entry, leading to a reef that descends to approximately 30 meters. The site is known for the presence of large sharks, and divers often encounter sizable schools of big eye jacks, groups of Pacific dog snappers, and curious barracudas. Additionally, sightings of scorpion fish, octopus, and seahorses are not uncommon, enhancing the underwater exploration.
Faro de Bucerias
Faro de Bucerias is located in a tranquil area known for its sub-tropical Pacific diving. The site features a sunken ship situated just offshore, which serves as the primary attraction for divers. The marine life here includes a variety of semi-tropical Pacific species such as octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, and various fish like butterflyfish, angelfish, and damselfish. The entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore the underwater environment.
Frijoles
Frijoles offers a dive that begins at approximately 10 meters, where divers can choose to explore the shallow reef or venture along the gravel-covered sand bottom leading to the deeper reef, which exceeds 25 meters. The underwater landscape is characterized by large boulders that create an elongated reef structure. Marine life is abundant, featuring a variety of colorful reef fish, schools of blue spotted and big eye jacks, and occasional sightings of barracudas, sharks, and turtles.
Guacamaya Island
Guacamaya Island is located north of Flamingo and Potrero along the coast, accessible via a shore entry. The site features varying depths, with the eastern side reaching around 5 meters and the western side dropping to nearly 30 meters. Divers can expect to encounter a diverse array of marine life, including numerous fish species, rays, sharks, and turtles. The area is also suitable for snorkeling when conditions permit.
Herradura
Herradura is located near Jaco, Costa Rica, adjacent to Los Suenos Marina. This dive site offers the opportunity to encounter various shark species. The second dive site is also in proximity to the marina and involves a descent to the island known for its snake population. The entry to the dive is from the shore.
Iglesia
Iglesia offers divers the opportunity to explore depths ranging from 12 meters to 30 meters. The site features a variety of separate rock formations interconnected by sandy areas, providing diverse diving experiences in both shallow and deeper waters. Marine life commonly observed here includes reef sharks, turtles, lobsters, and large schools of big eye jacks, as well as snapper, machetes, spadefish, barracudas, scorpion fish, frogfish, and even seahorses.
Isla Frijoles
Isla Frijoles is a dive site characterized by its proximity to an island, which is visible from the dive entry point. Divers can navigate around the site either clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on the current, while exploring the sandy bottom. The marine life includes various species such as sharks, schools of snappers, machetes, and jacks. Additionally, divers should be attentive to the reef, where scorpionfish and frogfish can occasionally be spotted.
La Catedral
La Catedral is located at the northern tip of Malpelo Island. The site features a pinnacle that rises from a sandy bottom at 18 meters (60 feet) and has a tunnel passing through it, which is lined with corals and sponges. Divers can expect to see marine life such as tunas, grunts, snappers, eels, eagle rays, and whitetip reef sharks.
La lengua
La Lengua is a dive site located in the Canales de Afuera area of Coiba National Park. The dive begins at a shallow depth of 8 to 10 meters, providing a comfortable entry point for divers. This site is typically sheltered from currents, allowing for a relaxed diving experience. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of reef fish, enhancing the underwater experience.
La Marina - Acapulco
La Marina in Acapulco is suitable for snorkeling and divers with limited experience, while also offering sections that cater to advanced divers. The site features a depth range from 3 meters (10 feet) to 30 meters (100 feet). Marine life includes a large coral colony, surgeonfish, trumpetfish, sea urchins, starfish, crabs, lobsters, lemon fish, butterflyfish, various pufferfish and boxfish, as well as eagle rays and turtles.
La Pared
La Pared is characterized by a prominent rock wall that offers a vertical dive experience. The site reaches a maximum depth of 18 meters, making it accessible for divers of varying skill levels. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including reef fish, eels, small invertebrates, as well as sharks and rays. The entry to the site is from the shore.
La Pared pinaculo
La Pared Pinaculo features a prominent rock wall that descends to a maximum depth of 18 meters, making it accessible for divers of varying experience levels. The vertical structure attracts a diverse range of marine life, including whitetip reef sharks, reef stingrays, lobsters, octopuses, and various reef fish such as angelfish, butterflyfish, and surgeonfish. Divers should be prepared for frequent currents at this site, which adds to the overall diving experience.
La Tortuga
La Tortuga is situated northwest of Playa Coco and derives its name from the turtle-shaped island above and a turtle-shaped cement block near the mooring line. This dive site features multiple routes and includes a small wreck. Divers can expect to see white tip sharks, particularly in cooler water, as well as numerous stingrays. Additionally, boxfish and crocodile fish are commonly observed near the moorings.
Lago Llopango
Lago Llopango, located approximately 16 kilometers from San Salvador, is a volcanic crater lake measuring 8 by 11 kilometers, with a total area of 72 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 230 meters. This site offers divers the opportunity to explore underwater hot springs and unique volcanic formations. The lake was formed by a significant volcanic eruption in 240 AD, providing a distinctive diving experience within an active crater. Entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its depths and geological features.
Laguna de Apoyo 60m Spot
Laguna de Apoyo is recognized as the first official freediving site in the region. This volcanic crater lake offers warm water conditions with no thermocline, minimal current, and infrequent waves. The maximum depth available for diving is 60 meters. The lake is home to seven species of fish, the largest reaching approximately 15 centimeters in length. The environment is considered safe for divers, with no dangerous marine life present. Access to the site is via a shore entry, and a private mooring line is available for use.
Lake Atitlan Qnyy
Lake Atitlán is an altitude dive site at 1,562 meters (5,026 feet) and is intended for experienced divers. Notable features include a submerged Mayan village and a petrified forest with volcanic boulders. Divers can also find ancient artifacts scattered in the area.
Las tetas
Las Tetas is located approximately 2 kilometers southeast of the Catalina Islands and consists of a larger rock and a smaller rock that together form a pinnacle. The northern rock descends underwater to a depth of around 10 meters, creating a wall diving experience along the rocks. The maximum depth at this site reaches approximately 35 meters. Divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including whitetip reef sharks, schools of grunts, butterfly fish, puffer fish, and moray eels. Manta rays may also be encountered in the area.
Los Sombréros
Los Sombréros is situated approximately 9.5 kilometers from Playa Potrero, characterized by its distinctive shape reminiscent of Mexican hats. The site features a volcanic island with varying depths, particularly on the northern side where the drop-off occurs rapidly. Divers can find suitable depths that accommodate different experience levels around the island. Marine life includes white tip sharks, schools of fish, and during certain seasons, an abundance of devil rays. Hawksbill turtles are also known to frequent this area, and divers can explore several canyons along the site.
Mali - Mali
Mali is characterized by an underwater mountain with a triangular shape, starting at a depth of 13 meters. The top of the reef is submerged during high tide, making it less visible. Divers can explore the area around the reef, where they may encounter various marine life including reef sharks, turtles, seahorses, frogfish, moray eels, snappers, and jacks. Currents should be assessed before diving to ensure safety.
Malpelo
Malpelo is an oceanic island situated in the Pacific Ocean, under the jurisdiction of the Republic of Colombia and the department of Valle del Cauca. This rocky archipelago is surrounded by deep waters, making it an ideal location for encounters with large marine species, including hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and silky sharks. Access to Malpelo is restricted and requires special permission, with diving typically conducted from liveaboard vessels.
Manuelita Coral Garden
Manuelita Coral Garden is a hard coral reef system located off Chatham Bay, with a maximum depth of 21 meters (70 feet). The area hosts a variety of marine life, including eels, lobsters, marbled rays, blacktip sharks, whitetip sharks, and hammerheads. The site is protected from strong currents, making it accessible for divers of all levels, especially during the high season from December to April.
Memories wreck
The Memories wreck is a fishing vessel that sank in Coco Bay. Measuring approximately 25 meters in length, it is not suitable for penetration but provides an opportunity to observe a variety of juvenile fish that take refuge within the structure. Divers can look into the cabin to see features such as the captain's chair and may encounter marine life including nudibranchs, scorpionfish, and schools of juvenile grunts, such as spot tail, Latin, and Cortez. The site offers a unique view of the underwater ecosystem surrounding the wreck.
Meros
Meros is a shallow dive site with a maximum depth of 12 meters (40 feet), making it suitable for photography and relaxed diving experiences. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including octopus, nudibranchs, and the occasional frogfish. Moray eels are also present, along with sightings of eagle rays and numerous pufferfish. This site is ideal for a second dive of the day due to its calm conditions and diverse aquatic life.
Monkey Head
Monkey Head is located approximately 15 minutes by boat from Playas del Coco. The site is characterized by a prominent underwater pinnacle that resembles a monkey's head above the surface. Divers can expect to see reef sharks and rays resting on the sandy bottom. In the shallower areas, large schools of reef fish are common, along with sightings of eagle rays and devil rays.
Pailas
Pailas is situated approximately 20 minutes from Potrero Beach. The dive begins on the western side of the island, progressing southward along the rock formations. The typical depth is around 14 meters, but it can reach depths exceeding 30 meters with slight deviations from the main path. A notable feature of this site is a cleaning station where mantas may be observed during the appropriate season. Divers can expect to see various species of schooling fish, and during cooler water conditions, numerous stingrays are often present.
Palmitas
Palmitas is an ideal dive site for novice divers, characterized by its shallow depths and minimal current. The underwater landscape features intriguing rock formations and numerous swim-throughs that enhance the diving experience. Marine life commonly observed includes eagle rays, giant manta rays, turtles, stingrays, and a variety of fish species such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrot fish, and grouper.
Pelicanos/Elephant rock
Pelicanos, also known as Elephant Rock, is located approximately three-quarters of the way from Potrero to the Catalinas. This dive site is accessible from the shore and offers depths suitable for divers of all levels, ranging up to around 25 meters. The underwater environment is typically bustling with marine life, including large schools of grunts, jacks, and butterfly fish that often accompany divers. Additionally, reef sharks are frequently observed in the area, enhancing the diving experience.
Piscina Olimpica U.N. Medellin
The Olympic Pool at the National University of Medellin serves as a facility for training and competition in aquatic and underwater disciplines. Situated at the El Volador headquarters of the university, it provides convenient access and ample parking for visitors. This site is primarily utilized for indoor diving activities and training purposes.
Playpen
Playpen is a shore entry dive site characterized by diverse rock formations and a rich array of marine life. In the shallower regions, divers can observe various schools of tropical fish alongside numerous invertebrates, including octopus, arrow crabs, harlequin shrimp, and seahorses. As divers venture deeper, they may encounter white tip reef sharks and different species of rays. The site also offers an excellent area for shallow training, making it suitable for divers of varying experience levels.
Punta Argentina
Punta Argentina is a dive site suitable for all divers, with an average depth of 10 meters (32 feet). You can find macro marine life such as harlequin shrimp and frogfish, along with larger species like stingrays. The site is accessed by boat from Playa del Coco, Guanacaste, and may have strong currents.
Punta Ballena
Punta Ballena, also known as Whale Point, is situated between Playa Hermosa and Playa Panama. This dive site represents the underwater extension of the peninsula that divides the two beaches. It is recognized for its diverse marine life, including frequent sightings of eagle rays, stingrays, and schools of various fish. On clear days, visibility is optimal, making it one of the preferred dive locations in the region. Divers may also encounter the occasional white tip reef shark. The site offers opportunities for macro photography as well.
Punta Catalina
Punta Catalina is situated at the southern tip of the Catalinas Islands. This dive site is notable for the presence of Oceanic Manta Rays, particularly during the winter months. The underwater topography descends to approximately 30 meters (100 feet) if divers venture out a bit from the shore. In addition to Manta Rays, divers may encounter various species such as Devil Rays, Eagle Rays, White Tip Reef Sharks, and Moray Eels. The site is favored for its diverse marine life, especially when conditions are optimal.
Punta Deseo
Punta Deseo, also known as Wish Point, features a sandy area at the beginning of the reef where divers typically anchor at depths of 6 to 7 meters. This site is suitable for Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) participants and Open Water students in the shallower sections, while experienced divers can explore depths reaching up to 18 meters. Marine life commonly encountered includes sharks resting in the sand and turtles foraging for food. When currents are favorable, plankton can attract various marine species, enhancing the diving experience.
Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda is a local dive site characterized by a prominent rocky outcrop nearby. The site offers a diverse marine environment, showcasing both larger fish species and smaller critters. Notable marine life includes harlequin shrimps, seahorses, moray eels, and eagle rays, which can all be observed during a single dive. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Rio Lajas
Rio Lajas is located at the mouth of the river, approximately a 30-minute ride from La Pescadería in Malpaís. This dive site features a sandy bottom, making buoyancy control essential for divers. It is an ideal location for practicing buoyancy skills while observing a variety of fish species. Divers should stay close to their guide to avoid descending to the sandy areas.
Roca Partida
Roca Partida is a pinnacle dive site with an average depth of 33 meters, featuring strong currents and excellent visibility. Divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including whale sharks, dolphins, and manta rays. It is suitable for drift diving and deep diving.
Roca Peligrosa, Danger Rock
Roca Peligrosa, also known as Danger Rock, is located approximately 3 kilometers south of the Catalina Islands. This dive site features a pinnacle with both shallow and deeper areas, making it unsuitable for novice divers but accessible for those with more experience. The typical dive route involves circling the rock that is visible above the water's surface. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of common reef fish, and with some luck, they may also see large schools of mobula rays and possibly sharks in the area.
Roca Sucia, Dirty Rock
Roca Sucia, also known as Dirty Rock, is situated approximately 8 kilometers from the coast, between Potrero Flamingo and the Catalinas. The dive site features a shallow area ranging from 8 to 13 meters near the eastern pinnacle, while depths of 35 meters can be found to the north and 27 meters to the south. This site is accessible for diving year-round, although divers should be aware that strong currents can occur. Marine life is abundant, with notable sightings including barber fish, king angelfish, and chancho surgeonfish, as well as sharks, rays, and turtles.
San Benedicto Canyon
San Benedicto Canyon, located at the southern end of San Benedicto Island in the Revillagigedo Islands, is a dive site known for its depth and exposure to the open ocean. This advanced to expert level dive site is accessible only by liveaboard. Divers can expect to encounter large pelagic species, including giant Pacific manta rays, schooling hammerheads, Galapagos sharks, silky sharks, and dolphins. The site offers a unique underwater landscape that attracts these impressive marine animals.
Seven Octopuses
Seven Octopuses features underwater walls that reach depths of up to 20 meters, making it suitable for divers who prefer light currents. The site presents canyon-like formations that can be explored, particularly when visibility is optimal. Less experienced divers can remain in shallower areas. The dive site is appropriate for those completing Open Water Course levels 3 and 4. Marine life includes a variety of species such as flute fish, octopus, nudibranchs, seahorses, and schools of fish.
Ship wreck
The Ship Wreck is a shrimp fishing vessel that succumbed to a storm and now rests at a depth of approximately 30 meters on a sandy bottom. The wreck's structure remains largely intact, providing a habitat for various marine life. Divers can expect to see small invertebrates, octopuses, reef fish, whitetip reef sharks, and goliath groupers in the area. This dive site is designated for advanced divers due to the depth and potential conditions.
Sorpresa
Sorpresa is a pinnacle dive site that begins at a depth of approximately 16 meters and descends to 30 meters. This site is designated for advanced divers due to the absence of shallow areas. The name 'Sorpresa' translates to 'surprise,' reflecting the varying conditions divers may encounter, including unexpected temperature changes and visibility. A notable feature of this site is the large school of Bigeye Jacks that can surround divers, creating a dynamic underwater experience. Additionally, divers can expect to see various marine life, including stingrays, eagle rays, moray eels, and octopuses, along with smaller critters.
South Point shallow
South Point Shallow is located on the southeast side of the Catalina Islands. This site primarily offers shallow diving opportunities, with depths generally remaining less than 25 meters. Divers may encounter a variety of reef fish, including butterfly fish and angelfish. Additionally, spotted eagle rays and sharks can be observed, particularly towards the deeper end of the dive site. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore the underwater ecosystem.
Tenacatita
Tenacatita is a dive site located on the western coast of Mexico, near Isla Tenacatita. It offers a shore entry and is suitable for both beginner and advanced divers. The area features a healthy reef structure that includes colder water coral species, coral fans, and a diverse array of fish life. The site is relatively secluded, providing a tranquil environment for exploration.
The Caves - Acapulco
The Caves in Acapulco offers a challenging dive experience with depths reaching up to 32 meters (106 feet). Divers will encounter moderate to strong currents as they navigate through large rock formations that create passages to explore. The site is home to diverse marine life, including eagle rays, schools of mackerel, grunts, surgeons, snappers, parrots, and various puffer fish. During the winter months, divers may also spot large octopuses.
Tiburon
Tiburon features substantial rock formations that provide habitats for white-tipped reef sharks, which utilize the area for both resting and hunting. Divers can also observe large schools of grunts and snappers, among other species. The site reaches a maximum depth of 15 meters, making it accessible for divers of all experience levels. Notable marine life includes reef stingrays, butterflyfish, angelfish, moray eels, boxfish, and lobsters.
Tortilla
Tortilla is located on the west coast of the peninsula and features a seabed primarily made up of complex rubble and rock formations. The site reaches a maximum depth of 20 meters, making it accessible for divers of varying experience levels. This underwater environment supports a diverse range of habitats, which are home to various invertebrates, small reef fish, as well as sharks and rays. The entry to the dive site is from the shore.
Tortuga Equador
Tortuga Ecuador is a dive site accessible from the shore, featuring a variety of rocky formations that provide shelter for marine life. Divers of all experience levels can explore the shallow areas, which are rich in biodiversity. More advanced divers can venture to the Rusty II wreck, located at a depth of 22 meters (70 feet). The site is home to white tip reef sharks, moray eels, and lobsters, with longtail stingrays found in deeper sections. Schools of fish are abundant, making it an excellent location for macro photography enthusiasts.
Virador
Virador is located approximately 20 minutes from Playa del Coco and is recognized as a popular dive site within the Gulf of Papagayo. This site features a drift dive around a prominent pinnacle, typically lasting about an hour. Divers can expect to encounter large schools of jacks and various tropical fish species. In the deeper sandy areas, sightings of white tip reef sharks and rays are common.
Wahoo
Wahoo features a prominent rock formation that rises above the water's surface, aiding in navigation both above and below the water. The dive site includes sandy shallows as well as steep rock faces that can reach depths of 30 meters. Divers should monitor their dive computers closely due to the potential for rapid depth changes. This area is known for plankton accumulation, which attracts larger marine species. In addition to the possibility of encountering larger fish, divers can expect to see a variety of reef fish, moray eels, and turtles throughout the dive.
Wahoo Rock
Wahoo Rock, located off Coiba Island, offers a dive starting at 13 meters (40 feet) and descending to rocky terraces and sand channels at about 30 meters (100 feet). Divers can encounter giant manta rays, whale sharks, whitetip reef sharks, and large schools of jacks, snappers, and barracudas, especially at several cleaning stations. Humpback whales may also be spotted occasionally.