Diving in Western Caribbean
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Western Caribbean's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Western Caribbean, ecoregion. This region features 286 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Western Caribbean 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 Western Caribbean (4)
Popular Spots in Western Caribbean (286)
40 Cañones
40 Cañones is a dive site with a wall starting at 12 meters (40 feet) and extending to 40 meters (130 feet). The site features canyons and swim-throughs, with diverse marine life including various fish, eels, and rays primarily found in the upper part of the reef.
Acuario
Acuario is a shallow reef dive site with a maximum depth of 13 meters. The area features a combination of sandy patches and reef structures, making it suitable for Basic Diver and Open Water courses. It is also an excellent location for training dives, particularly due to the expansive sandy area located near the boat mooring line. Divers can observe a variety of fish species and are likely to encounter different types of rays, including Eagle Rays. The coral coverage in the area contributes to the overall biodiversity.
Agua Negra Cozumel
Agua Negra Cozumel is a blackwater diving site located approximately 3-4 miles offshore from Cozumel Island, situated over the MesoAmerican Barrier Reef System. This dive offers a unique opportunity to observe a variety of marine life in the open ocean, including juvenile crustaceans, mollusks, gastropods, and larger species such as juvenile marlins and sailfish. The site is accessed by boat, making it suitable for divers looking to explore the dynamic marine environment of the Caribbean.
Airplane Wreck
The Airplane Wreck is a 6-passenger single-engine aircraft that crashed in 2021, resting at a depth of approximately 24 meters. The wreck is situated flat on the seabed, providing a unique underwater structure to explore. Currently, there is minimal marine life in the vicinity due to the recent nature of the wreck, but it may attract lionfish in the future. Divers are encouraged to bring a spear for potential lionfish sightings. Access to the site is by boat.
Airport Caves
Airport Caves is situated on the southern side of Utila, approximately 10 to 15 minutes from the main dock, in front of the former airstrip. This dive site features underwater caves and is home to various marine species. Divers can expect to see Garden Eels, Stingrays, and Trumpetfish, along with a variety of other fish such as Barracuda, Black Durgon, and Angelfishes. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore the unique underwater landscape.
Akumal Reef
Akumal Reef is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, recognized as the second-largest reef globally. The site is known for its shallow waters and excellent visibility, reaching up to 30 meters (100 feet). It is a designated area for observing green sea turtles, as the name 'Akumal' translates to 'Place of the Turtles' in Mayan. Divers can also encounter hawksbill turtles, spotted eagle rays—especially during winter months—moray eels, barracudas, angelfish, parrotfish, and trunkfish. The reef is characterized by colorful coral formations and sponges, providing a diverse underwater ecosystem. Entry to the site is from the shore.
Alaina’s Sandy Bottom
Alaina’s Sandy Bottom offers easy shore access, with a buoy marking the dive site at a depth of 25 feet. The terrain features a sandy bottom and includes several swim-throughs along with large coral formations. Divers can observe numerous fan corals and a variety of marine life throughout the area, encouraging exploration of the entire site.
Anthony’s Key Resort House Reef
Anthony’s Key Resort House Reef is a shore-accessible dive site located at coordinates 16.328800, -86.573400. This site is part of the Meso-American Barrier Reef and offers opportunities for both diving and snorkeling. Marine life commonly observed here includes eels, grouper, and octopus, along with schools of blue tangs, parrotfish, angelfish, and damselfish. The reef is characterized by sea fans, star coral, and brain coral, providing a diverse underwater ecosystem for exploration.
Aquarium
Aquarium is located on the east-northeast side, approximately 20 minutes from the main dive centers. The site features three distinct reefs: a shoreline reef, a middle reef, and an outer reef that runs parallel to the middle one. Divers can explore various underwater formations, including overhangs, caverns, and smaller caves. This site is known for the presence of marine life such as octopus, moray eels, members of the boxfish family, lionfish, and nurse sharks that can often be seen resting during the day.
Bahia Príncipe
Bahia Príncipe is located near Tulum, Mexico, and is suitable for beginner divers. The site features shallow and warm waters, making it easily accessible for shore diving. The underwater landscape consists of typical Caribbean reef corals and sponges, interspersed with sandy areas. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of Caribbean reef fish species, including tangs, damselfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish. Additionally, sea turtles are commonly seen, and there are occasional sightings of nurse sharks.
Barco C-56
The Barco C-56 is a wreck of a former U.S. Navy minesweeper, now an artificial reef located off the coast of Puerto Morelos at a depth of around 27 meters. The wreck is encrusted with coral and is home to a variety of marine life, including fish and invertebrates. This site is suitable for experienced divers looking to explore wrecks.
Barco Hundido - Wreck Cadete Juan Escutia C-56
The wreck of the Cadete Juan Escutia C-56, which served in the US Navy during World War II, is located at a depth of 27 meters (90 feet) on a sandy seabed. This wreck was intentionally sunk in 2000 and is now part of the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park. Divers can encounter various marine life around the wreck, including eagle rays and barracudas, particularly during the season when these species are more prevalent.
Barracuda - Cozumel
Barracuda is characterized by strong currents that are often present, with the potential for down and out currents. The site features an abundance of sponges and large schools of fish. During certain seasons, eagle rays can be spotted here. This dive site is considered challenging and is best approached as a fast drift dive. Divers should enter and exit the water as a group, and it is essential for the captain to be familiar with the area.
Barracuda - Playa del Carmen
Barracuda in Playa del Carmen is characterized by a shallow reef that features a prominent wall structure. Divers should be mindful of their buoyancy and descending techniques due to the strong currents present at this site. The currents are rich in nutrients, supporting a diverse marine ecosystem. Expect to encounter a variety of fish species, as well as turtles, moray eels, rays, sponges, and various coral formations. This site is suitable for divers who are comfortable in dynamic water conditions.
Barracuda Pinnacles
Barracuda Pinnacles is a dive site located in northern Cozumel with a depth range of 15-18 meters and a sandy bottom. Divers can expect to see various marine life, including flying gurnards and shortnose batfish. Access to the site is typically by boat.
Bear’s Den
Bear’s Den is characterized by a significant underwater cave and tunnel located a few minutes east of the mooring at a depth of approximately 40 feet. This cave is spacious enough to accommodate multiple divers. The dive site features a variety of black coral in deeper areas, along with sea whips and large sponges that cover the surrounding environment.
Big Bight
Big Bight is situated approximately 10 minutes east of Utila Harbor. The site is recognizable from the surface by a beach that has larger pieces of coral washed ashore. The beach is flanked by sharp lava rocks, which create steep walls that rise from the water. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including Barrel Spongers, branching corals, Anemones, Channel Clinging Crabs, Spiny and Spanish Lobsters, Green Moray Eels, Groupers, and various sea slugs.
Big Rock
Big Rock is a well-frequented dive site, ideal for both divers and students. The site features a large sandy area that extends from a depth of 15 feet to 130 feet. Divers can explore a stunning wall dive that offers a variety of marine life. Notably, this location is known for the presence of one of the largest seahorses in Utila, typically found in the sand between depths of 18 to 24 meters, often camouflaged among numerous garden eels.
Bikini Bottom
Bikini Bottom is an ideal site for training and shallow dives, featuring a sandy area at depths of 15-20 feet (5-6 meters) and a top reef that extends to approximately 40 feet (12 meters). Divers can enjoy a leisurely exploration while observing smaller marine creatures and the interactions among fish as they establish territories on the reef.
Black Coral Wall
Black Coral Wall features a gently sloping underwater wall characterized by occasional striking rock formations. The site is notable for its abundant Black Coral, which appears as wispy bushes protruding from the rocky surfaces. In addition to the Black Coral, divers can observe schools of grunts and jacks, along with various Caribbean reef fish and lobsters inhabiting the area.
Black Hills
Black Hills is a seamount located off the southeast coast of Utila. The summit of the mound is approximately 10 meters deep, with steep drops reaching depths of over 40 meters on various sides. Divers may encounter strong currents both at the surface and below. The site is known for large schools of spadefish and jacks, and it is also a suitable location for spotting lionfish. The coral formations here are healthy and plentiful, contributing to the site's biodiversity.
Black Rock
Black Rock is an extension of the West End Wall, characterized by its numerous fissures in the reef structure. Divers can explore a variety of soft coral formations and large barrel sponges. This site connects with other notable locations such as Texas and Pablo’s Place. While diving, keep an eye out for smaller marine life, including arrow crabs with distinctive blue claws and various shrimp species, notably the banded coral shrimp.
Blackbeard
Blackbeard is a shallow reef located south of the El Presidente Intercontinental hotel, known for its diverse marine life. The site features artificial reef structures that attract a variety of fish species, including white grunts, trumpetfish, damselfish, and surgeonfish. Additionally, hermit crabs and moray eels can be observed among the coral formations. This area is also suitable for night snorkeling due to its abundant marine activity. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers and snorkelers alike.
Blackish Point
Blackish Point is named for the historical presence of Black Groupers in the area, although they are no longer commonly found here. The site is located approximately 45 minutes from the main diving hub and is accessed via shore entry. It provides a habitat for various marine species, including lionfish, moray eels, large spiny lobsters, and spotted drums. Divers can also observe big midnight parrotfish in this area.
Blue Bayou
Blue Bayou is a shore entry dive site characterized by a gently sloping wall that features various structures and a notable presence of soft corals. The site is particularly suitable for diving when winds are from the west. Divers can expect to see a typical assortment of reef fish common to Utila, including wrasse, parrotfish, tangs, tobacco fish, and butterfly fish. Additionally, arrow crabs and banded coral shrimp are often spotted in this area.
Blue Cave
Blue Cave is located on the southern side of Roatan Island, near the western point. The dive site begins in shallow, clear waters adjacent to rocky shores. Divers can explore a safe cave that is accessible to most skill levels. Common marine life includes barracuda, groupers, and turtles, making it a vibrant spot for underwater observation.
Blue Channel
Blue Channel is a dive site located at a depth of 15 meters, suitable for divers of all experience levels. The site features varied topography including crevices, small caves, and swim-throughs, with marine life such as goatfish, moray eels, barracudas, and lobsters. Access is typically by boat.
Blue Channel
Blue Channel is a well-known dive site located on Roatan, accessible from the shore. Divers can explore a broad, shallow channel that leads into a series of tunnels, providing an engaging underwater experience. The dive typically concludes in an area with turtle grass. Marine life includes fireworms, large feather dusters, lobsters, moray eels, pipefish, and silversides, making it a diverse site for observation.
Blue Hole
The Great Blue Hole is a deep dive site reaching 42 meters (135 feet). It requires good buoyancy control and experience due to low light conditions at depth. Marine life is limited, with minimal coral growth, but divers can observe unique geological formations.
Bucca Quay
Buca Quay, commonly known as West End Wall, is a notable wall dive characterized by its dramatic drop-offs and underwater features. The dive begins at a depth of approximately 20 meters (66 feet) and descends further as divers move west or south. The site includes various side canyons, chutes, and sand falls, providing diverse underwater topography. Marine life is abundant, and divers should be vigilant for the possibility of encountering hammerhead sharks in the deep blue waters adjacent to the wall.
Butcher’s Bank
Butcher’s Bank is characterized by a diverse underwater landscape, with the dive site beginning at a depth of approximately 12 meters along a coral finger that extends from the outer wall. To the east and south, divers can explore a large, pristine sandy area scattered with coral heads and bommies, as well as soft branching corals, making it an excellent location for underwater photography.
Cannons
Cannons is a dive site located on the East coast of Cozumel featuring about a dozen historic cannons and cannonballs, believed to be from the late 1700s. The site has a depth range of 6-12 meters (20-40 feet) and is suitable for intermediate divers, with moderate current. Divers can observe large Elkhorn coral and various marine life in the area.
Cantarel (Eagle Ray Wall)
Cantarel (Eagle Ray Wall) is a drift dive site with depths ranging from 10 to 30 meters. The site is known for its strong and unpredictable currents, which makes it suitable for intermediate divers. Notable marine life includes spotted eagle rays that can be seen in formation from December to late January.
Cantarell
Cantarell is a notable wall dive characterized by steep drop-offs. During the migration season of eagle rays, typically from mid-January to early March, divers may encounter these species in groups. The site is best approached as a drift dive, with divers entering the water simultaneously and exiting together. Strong currents can be present, which may push divers outward or downward along the wall.
Canyon Reef
Canyon Reef is located near the Mangrove Bight buoy and features a variety of canyons, swim-throughs, and cuts that divers can explore. The wall at this site descends to a depth of 55 feet (16 meters), making it accessible for divers with an open water certification. This site offers a diverse underwater landscape suitable for a range of diving experiences.
Cara a Cara
Cara a Cara is a dive site situated on the southern coast of Roatan, approximately 2 nautical miles from the shore. Access to the site can be achieved via a 20-minute bus ride followed by a 15-minute boat trip from a nearby SSI center. Divers are advised to complete at least one acclimation dive prior to diving here due to the potential for rough sea conditions. The site is characterized by its diverse marine life and unique underwater features, making it suitable for experienced divers.
Cardona
Cardona is a shallow reef located approximately 200 meters from the shore, just south of Punta Tunich. This site is typically explored as a second or third dive and is also suitable for snorkeling. The reef is characterized by soft corals and sponges that provide habitat for various marine species, including damselfish, angelfish, trumpetfish, and pufferfish. Blennies can often be seen emerging from hard coral heads, offering opportunities for photography in natural light.
Casa Blanca
Casa Blanca is located slightly south of the Cedral Wall entry point. This dive site is often overlooked by local operators, yet it offers opportunities to encounter marine life such as sharks and turtles. It serves as an ideal entry point for divers with efficient air consumption or on days with strong currents, allowing them to maximize their bottom time without exhausting the reef too quickly. The site is accessible from the shore.
Casa Cenote
Casa Cenote, situated near Tulum, is accessible from the shore and is suitable for novice divers. The cenote features clear emerald waters and offers opportunities for exploration of its caverns. While diving here, divers may observe smaller fish in the area, although the focus is primarily on the cenote's scenic landscape rather than abundant marine life.
Caye Caulker Marine Reserve
Caye Caulker Marine Reserve is a designated marine protected area located just off the coast of Caye Caulker. The site features a healthy reef ecosystem with abundant live corals and a variety of juvenile fish species. Divers may encounter typical Caribbean marine life, including turtles, rays, groupers, snappers, angelfish, and lobsters. There is also a possibility of spotting hammerhead sharks. The site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers and snorkelers alike.
Cedar Pass
Cedar Pass is a shallow dive site with a maximum depth of 60 feet, making it suitable for novice divers. The area is characterized by numerous small coves and crevices that provide hiding spots for various fish species. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and a diverse array of reef fish. Notably, the endemic Splendid toadfish can also be found here, which is unique to the Cozumel region. The site is accessed from the shore, allowing for easy entry.
Cedral Wall
Cedral Wall offers a dive that begins at approximately 13 meters (45 feet) and descends to a maximum depth of 27 meters (90 feet). Divers can explore the vertical wall and the surrounding reef, which features steep drops and diverse coral formations. The site is known for sightings of green moray eels, nurse sharks, eagle rays, and large groupers, as well as schools of tropical fish. Additionally, hawksbill turtles and spotted eagle rays are frequently observed in this area.
Cenote Angelita
Cenote Angelita is located approximately 17 kilometers south of Tulum and is accessible from the shore. This dive site is notable for its unique underwater environment, featuring a distinct layer of hydrogen sulfide that creates a striking visual effect. The dive typically reaches depths suitable for advanced divers, providing an opportunity to explore this surreal landscape. The site is characterized by its eerie atmosphere, making it a fascinating location for those experienced in cave diving.
Cenote Carwash
Cenote Carwash, located just a short drive from Tulum, is a stunning freshwater cenote with crystal-clear visibility and depths reaching around 15 meters. It’s perfect for snorkeling and freediving training, and also offers the unique opportunity for scuba diving into an underwater cave system. Surrounded by lush jungle and home to a rich variety of aquatic life, it’s a favorite among nature lovers and divers alike.
Cenote Chac Mool
Cenote Chac Mool features a main cavern characterized by its halocline, where fresh and saltwater converge, producing distinct visual effects. The site is known for its clear waters and intricate limestone formations, making it a notable location for divers. Entry is from the shore, providing easy access to the underwater environment.
Cenote Chan Hol
Cenote Chan Hol is located in Quintana Roo, Mexico, and is part of the Toh ha cave system. This site is notable for its archaeological significance, having yielded the remains of three prehistoric human fossils. The cenote features areas where light penetrates, supporting some plant life. Additionally, divers may encounter shrimps and blind cave fish, commonly referred to as bream. The entry to this dive site is from the shore.
Cenote Chikin Ha
Cenote Chikin Ha offers opportunities for both cavern and cave diving in its clear waters. The site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers and snorkelers alike. While exploring, you may encounter marine life such as turtles in the open waters. Additionally, visitors can explore the nearby cenote known as Rainbow.
Cenote Cristalino
Cenote Cristalino is a freshwater cenote ideal for practicing open water skills, particularly for courses that require shallow water environments. The maximum depth at this site is 9 meters. While there is a cave section within the cenote, access to this area is restricted to certified cave divers. The aquatic life here includes small freshwater fish, some turtles, and a variety of underwater flora typical of cenotes found in the Riviera Maya region.
Cenote Dos Ojos
Cenote Dos Ojos is a well-known diving location in Mexico, characterized by its two distinct underwater routes, which is reflected in its name meaning 'two eyes.' This cenote is primarily suited for advanced and technical divers, focusing on the unique underwater geological formations rather than marine life. While diving, divers may encounter small fish, particularly near the entrance, but the primary attraction lies in the cenote's geological features. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its depths.
Cenote Dos Palmas
Cenote Dos Palmas is located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the entrance of Dos Ojos Park. This cenote features a ring of freshwater with a maximum depth of 5 meters. It is primarily suited for cave diving and training, as there is no cavern line present. The environment includes an overhead section, and the surrounding area is characterized by jungle vegetation. Marine life is limited, with only small fish and some introduced freshwater turtles observed. There are no significant water plants or algae present.
Cenote Dream Gate
Cenote Dream Gate is part of the extensive Sac Actun system, recognized as one of the largest underground river systems globally. Divers can explore two cavern circuits, each lasting approximately 40 minutes. The site features impressive calcareous formations, including large columns, stalactites, and stalagmites. While marine life is not a primary focus here, the geological structures provide a unique underwater landscape for exploration.
Cenote El Pit
Cenote El Pit is a deep dive site characterized by striking rock formations and a notable hydrogen sulfide cloud. The entry is from the shore, and divers should be cautious as the steps leading down can be slippery; wearing boots is advisable. The site features a strong halocline, creating unique visibility conditions. While aquatic life is limited, divers may spot small freshwater fish. The primary attractions here are the light displays and the impressive speleothems found throughout the cenote. Remains of ice age mammals have also been discovered in this area.
Cenote Kukulcan
Cenote Kukulcan features a large cavern where beams of light penetrate the water, creating a unique underwater environment. The visibility is typically excellent, allowing for clear views of the surroundings. The water temperature remains stable at approximately 25°C (77°F) throughout the year, providing comfortable diving conditions.
Cenote Kukulkan
Cenote Kukulkan is a spacious cenote characterized by ample natural light. It is suitable for novice divers, offering a unique experience with a light display during favorable weather conditions. In the open area, divers may encounter various marine life, including catfish, eels, and red jewelry turtles. With a bit of luck, it is also possible to see koi fish. The site is accessed from the shore, making it convenient for entry.
Cenote Maravillas
Cenote Maravillas, situated near Puerto Morelos on the Yucatán Peninsula, is a dive site that offers advanced divers the chance to explore its unique underwater features. The cenote has depths that exceed 70 meters (230 feet), with most dives taking place at depths up to 30 meters (100 feet). Divers should be aware of the dense hydrogen sulfide cloud that begins around 28 meters, which can affect visibility and conditions. Entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to experience its distinct geological formations.
Cenote Nicte Ha
Cenote Nicte Ha is located in Ejido Jacinto Pat, approximately 10 minutes north of Tulum. The site features an average depth of 4 to 5 meters, making it essential for divers to possess good buoyancy control to fully enjoy the experience. In the open water, divers may encounter lilies and turtles, while the cave section is home to unique marine life, including freshwater eels and rare blind fish.
Cenote Puerta Maya
Cenote Puerta Maya is a stunning freshwater cenote tucked away in the jungle of the Riviera Maya, Mexico. Surrounded by lush vegetation and filled with crystal-clear water, it’s ideal for snorkelers who want to float peacefully, enjoy natural light beams, and experience the beauty of the cenote from the surface. Calm, accessible, and breathtaking, it’s perfect for beginners and nature lovers alike. For certified cave divers, Puerta Maya opens into a dramatic underwater cave system with intricate passages and spectacular formations. The system reaches depths of approximately 24 meters (79 feet), offering excellent visibility and a serene, otherworldly environment. Whether you’re gently snorkeling at the surface or diving deep into the cave’s silence, Puerta Maya is a place that captures the soul of Mexico’s underground beauty.
Cenote Taak Bi Ha
Cenote Taak Bi Ha is a dive site suitable for divers with some experience in cenotes. The cenote features various formations that provide a glimpse into the cave diving environment, although formal cave diving training is not required. The fish population is limited due to the small amount of daylight that penetrates the water, making sightings of freshwater eels and blind fish uncommon.
Cenote Tajma Ha
Cenote Tajma Ha is known for its distinct halocline and excellent lighting conditions. Divers will explore three interconnected cenotes: Tajma Ha, Cenote Sugarbowl, and Cenote Esmeralda, each offering unique underwater experiences. In the well-lit areas, divers can observe various catfish. Additionally, when surfacing in Cenote Sugarbowl, there is a possibility of seeing sleeping bats.
Cenote Tak Be Lum
Cenote Tak Be Lum is a freshwater cenote characterized by its dripstone formations. Access is via stairs, providing a convenient shore entry. The maximum depth ranges from 4 to 6 meters, with some areas being quite shallow. Divers should be cautious of silt that can reduce visibility and are advised to maintain good buoyancy. The cenote is home to various species of freshwater perch, and while blind fish are reported to inhabit the area, they are not easily spotted. The site also features beautiful stalactites, adding to its unique underwater landscape.
Cenote Yax-Chen
Cenote Yax-Chen, translating to 'green pond' in Mayan, is an open cenote that is part of the Ox Bel Ha system. The cenote has an average depth of 5 to 7 meters, with a bottom composed of small shells, sediment, and algae, which are sensitive to disturbance. The area features large boulders that provide standing spots. During rainfall, the presence of tannic acid creates a distinct thermocline at the surface. Surrounding the cenote are mangroves, and divers may encounter various freshwater species, including tarpon, blue crabs, and small crocodiles.
Cenote Zacil-Ha
Cenote Zacil-Ha is a stunning natural pool with crystal-clear water, just 8 km from Tulum along the Coba road. About 3 meters deep, it’s perfect for snorkeling, cooling off, and enjoying a relaxing swim on hot days. Small caves surround the cenote, and certified divers can access an underwater cave system that connects to nearby cenotes like Carwash and Cenote Grande. A must-visit destination in the Riviera Maya!
Cenote Zapote (Hells Bells)
Cenote Zapote, also referred to as 'Hell's Bells,' is an underwater cavern situated near Puerto Morelos. This site is characterized by its unique bell-shaped formations and features a complex cavern system with depths reaching up to 54 meters. Divers can navigate through a network of passages that showcase these distinctive formations, providing an intriguing environment for exploration. The entry to the cenote is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to experience its unique underwater landscape.
Cerebros
Cerebros is characterized by its unique coral formations resembling brains, as indicated by its name. The site is rich in mountain-style corals, providing a diverse habitat for various marine life. It is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers of all skill levels. The underwater environment offers numerous opportunities for photography, with a variety of subjects to capture throughout the dive.
Chankanaab
Chankanaab features coral heads known as 'bolones' at an average depth of 13 meters, with some areas reaching up to 25 meters. This dive site is home to various marine species including lobsters, trunkfish, moray eels, crabs, grunts, snappers, and parrotfish.
Chankanaab
Chankanaab is a marine park located at coordinates 20.440800, -87.002700, with access from the shore at Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park. The site offers opportunities for snorkeling and diving directly from the beach. Marine life includes spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and a variety of reef fish, as well as the endemic Splendid toadfish, which is unique to Cozumel.
Chankanaab Bolones
Chankanaab Bolones is located in front of Chankanaab Park and features mild currents, making it suitable for novice divers. The site has a sandy bottom with large coral formations and an average depth of 21 meters (70 feet). Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, which adds interest for divers of all experience levels. The current typically flows from north to south and may occasionally bring in cool freshwater from the Chankanaab lagoon. Good air consumption is essential to maximize bottom time during the dive.
Chitales
Chitales is a shallow reef in Cancun at a depth of 10 meters (35 feet), suitable for divers of all levels. The site features large staghorn corals and a variety of marine life including amberjacks, barracudas, moray eels, and parrotfish. The southeast current makes it ideal for drift diving.
Chun Zumbul
Chun Zumbul is a shallow reef located close to the coast, making it accessible for divers of all experience levels. The site features a diverse array of marine life, including various corals, sponges, and schools of fish. During certain seasons, divers may encounter small rays, sharks, octopus, squid, and small lobsters. The entry to the site is from the shore, providing a convenient option for those who prefer shorter trips.
Chun Zumbul Deep
Chun Zumbul Deep is a dive site characterized by an average depth of 26 meters, featuring three distinct reef plateaus separated by sandy dune-like banks. Divers should be prepared for strong currents in this area. Marine life includes green moray eels, turtles, southern and sting rays, schools of larger fish, sponges, coral formations, and, during the appropriate season, bull sharks.
Chun-Zumbul
Chun-Zumbul is a shallow reef dive site off Coco Beach in Playa del Carmen, with depths ranging from 6 to 13 meters. It features coral overhangs and caverns, providing habitat for moray eels, lemon rays, shellfish, and flounders. Visibility is typically 15 to 20 meters, and the site has minimal current, making it suitable for novice divers.
Chunchacah
Chunchacah is a dive site characterized by a consistent depth of 21 meters (70 feet) throughout. The area features large coral heads, abundant fan corals, and a variety of sea plums and sponges. Divers may encounter marine life such as eagle rays, sharks, and turtles, along with numerous whelk and conch. The currents at this site can be unpredictable, making it advisable for divers to be prepared for varying conditions. This site is located in the southern region of Cozumel and is often selected as a second dive following Maracaibo. Entry to the site is from the shore.
Church Reef
Church Reef consists of two dive sites: Church Wall and the reef itself. The maximum depth is 50 meters (165 feet), making it suitable for advanced divers. Expect to see marine life such as rays, sea turtles, creole wrasses, moray eels, and various corals, with visibility reaching up to 30 meters.
CJ’s Dropoff
CJ’s Dropoff is situated on the northern side of the island, approximately 55 minutes from local dive centers. This dive site features steep walls that extend beyond 140 feet in depth. At around 30 feet, divers can observe sandy patches that provide a unique underwater landscape. Marine life commonly seen here includes eagle rays, barracudas, and lionfish at greater depths. Additionally, divers may encounter spotted drums and various species of eels throughout the dive.
Colombia Deep
Colombia Deep features depths of 18 to 27 meters, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced divers. The site is characterized by coral pinnacles, caverns, caves, and tunnels populated with soft corals, sponges, and a variety of marine life including grunts, snappers, and groupers.
Colombia Deep
Colombia Deep features significant underwater formations, including tall coral pinnacles and extensive sand chutes, with the reef starting at approximately 15 meters and descending into deeper waters. The site is characterized by its complex swim-throughs, providing divers with opportunities for exploration. Due to the depth and the likelihood of strong currents, this dive site is recommended for divers who possess advanced certifications or have considerable diving experience.
Colombia Reef
Colombia Reef is a dive site located between Colombia Deep and Colombia Shallows, with depths ranging from 50 to 90 feet (15-27 meters). The site features coral pinnacles, tunnels, and caves, with diverse marine life including groupers, damselfish, turtles, and wrasses. It is suitable for intermediate divers.
Colombia Reef
Colombia Reef features a vibrant shallow reef with a notable drop-off. The dive site typically experiences moderate currents, making it suitable for drift diving. Divers can explore various swim-throughs and overhangs. Marine life includes spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and a variety of reef fish, along with the endemic Splendid toadfish, which is unique to Cozumel.
Colombia Shallows
Colombia Shallows is a beginner-friendly dive site with an average depth of 12 meters and gentle currents, making it suitable for novice divers. The area features pillar corals and a variety of marine life, including starfish, jacks, green and hawksbill turtles, barracudas, eagle rays, grunts, snappers, moray eels, groupers, and occasional nurse sharks.
Colombia Shallows
Colombia Shallows is a dive site with a maximum depth of 25 feet, making it suitable for beginner training, refresher courses, and divers seeking to observe a diverse array of marine life. The site is known for frequent sightings of turtles and nurse sharks throughout the year, with eagle rays appearing during the winter months. Divers can expect to see a wide variety of juvenile fish, schools of adult fish species, crustaceans, and coral formations. The shallow depth allows for extended bottom times, providing ample opportunities for underwater photography.
Cozumel
Cozumel is located off the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico and features warm, clear waters year-round. This dive site is known for its diverse marine life, including spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and a variety of reef fish. A notable species found here is the endemic Splendid toadfish, which is unique to Cozumel. The site is accessible from shore, making it convenient for divers.
Cueva Del Pargo
Cueva Del Pargo features a circular overhang at a maximum depth of 10 meters with minimal current, making it suitable for beginner divers. Large schools of snappers can be observed here, along with crabs, lobsters, shrimps, and seahorses.
Cuevitas
Cuevitas, translating to 'Little Caves' in Spanish, is a reef dive site located near Tulum, accessible via a 10-minute boat ride from Casa Cenote. Divers can explore a network of small arches and colorful coral structures. The site is home to a variety of marine life, including barracudas, sea turtles, lobsters, shrimps, moray eels, stingrays, nurse sharks, and squid.
Cypress Canyons
Cypress Canyons features a spur-and-groove reef characterized by deep, narrow canyons that run perpendicular to the reef line. The coral spurs reach depths of 50 to 70 feet, while the sandy cuts descend rapidly to around 100 feet. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of Caribbean marine life, including nurse sharks, reef sharks, and the occasional eagle ray. Turtles, stingrays, and numerous fish species such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper are also commonly observed at this site.
Deep - Ricardo Montans
Deep - Ricardo Montans offers a wall dive that begins at a depth of 30 meters. The site features a beautiful reef structure, and on days with good visibility, it can be observed from the surface. Marine life includes sightings of hammerhead and silky sharks in the deeper areas. This dive site is suitable for experienced divers due to its depth and conditions.
Diamond Cay
Diamond Cay is a shore entry dive site characterized by a narrow coral formation situated between two expansive sand channels. The western sand patches reach depths of approximately 30 feet (10 meters), while the dive progresses eastward towards the reef wall. At a depth of around 80 feet (24 meters) to the north, divers can observe a colony of bushy black coral. In the southern direction, large common sea fans are prevalent. Marine life includes species such as grouper, Spanish hogfish, and porcupinefish.
Dolphin Den
Dolphin Den is located on the northern side of the island and is characterized by its coral canyons, which share similarities with those found at Mary's Place. The site is known for its diverse marine life, including snapping shrimp, slipper lobsters, and anemones. It is typically less crowded, providing a tranquil diving experience. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Dolphins Den
Dolphins Den is a shallow cave and cavern dive located at depths between 5 and 12 meters, accessible from both inside and outside the reef. Divers are advised to carry torches, although experienced divers can navigate using natural light. The inner reef side is home to numerous Giant Anemones, while the cave may host Glassy Sweepers and Silversides. The outer reef presents a healthy and vibrant ecosystem, making it an interesting site for exploration.
Don Quickset
Don Quickset is a dive site characterized by a mix of structural features and sandy channels. The maximum depth at this location is less than 30 meters. Divers should be aware that there are no moorings available, which means drift diving is the primary option. While the site may not be as vibrant as others, it is known for the presence of lionfish, with sightings of 6 to 8 individuals during a dive being relatively common.
Dreams Reef
Dreams Reef is situated near Cuevitas and is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. This dive site is accessible from the shore and is known for its excellent visibility. Divers can explore lush coral gardens that provide a tranquil diving environment. The site is ideal for observing a variety of marine life in a serene setting.
Duppy Waters
Duppy Waters is a wall dive situated on the north side of Turtle Harbor. Divers will experience a brief swim across a shallow reef before encountering a steep wall that descends beyond 40 meters. The site is characterized by a diverse array of sponges and corals on the surface. Common marine life includes turtles and lionfish, along with a variety of other species.
El Aguila (Wreck)
El Aguila, also known as The Eagle, is a notable wreck dive located near Baileys Key and Anthony’s Key Resort. Originally a concrete freighter, it was sunk off Utila and later raised, modified for diving, and resunk in 1997 by a group of local dive shops. The wreck attracts various marine life, including large groupers, barracuda, tuna, and both reef and grey sharks, making it a dynamic dive site. The entry to the site is from the shore.
El Aquario
El Aquario is characterized by a deep wall dive that can be approached as either a drift dive or a stationary dive. The mooring is located at a depth of approximately 8 meters on the top reef, with a short swim required to reach the wall. The site is rich in marine life, featuring large barrel sponges, tube sponges, azure vases, and extensive plate corals and fans, providing a diverse underwater landscape.
El Islote
El Islote is a dive site for advanced divers, with depths ranging from 3 to 9 meters at the start, dropping to 24 to 45 meters. The site features strong currents, making it accessible only from May to October. Marine life includes turtles, parrotfish, eagle rays, reef sharks, and staghorn corals.
Emma’s Plummet
Emma's Plummet features a buoy located at a depth of 20 feet, providing access for both beginner and advanced divers. The dive site ranges from 20 feet to 120 feet in depth, allowing exploration of the reef at various levels. Divers can observe large coral formations and a diverse array of fish species throughout the site. The terrain is also characterized by numerous large barrel sponges.
Esmeralda Canyon
Esmeralda Canyon is characterized by its unique slot canyon formations within coral reefs, resembling a library of coral structures. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of Caribbean marine life, including nurse sharks, reef sharks, and the possibility of spotting eagle rays, turtles, and stingrays. The site is also home to diverse fish species such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper. The entry to this dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore the underwater environment.
Felipe Xicotencatl C-53 Wreck
The Felipe Xicotencatl C-53 is a wreck intentionally sunk to serve as an artificial reef. Measuring 55 meters (184 feet) in length, the wreck has a maximum depth of 23 meters (76 feet). It has been prepared for safe diving, allowing for straightforward entry and exit. Inside the wreck, divers can observe schools of glassy sweepers, while the bow area is often home to spiny lobsters. Additionally, garden eels can be found in the surrounding regions.
Fish Bowl
Fish Bowl is located on the northern side of the island within Turtle Harbor. This dive site features a sandy-bottomed reef, providing a unique environment for divers. Common marine life includes lionfish, eels, and grouper, with occasional sightings of green turtles and rays. The site is accessible via shore entry.
Fish Den
Fish Den features a coral pillar located within a square-shaped cut in the reef wall. The top of the pillar is approximately 7 meters deep, descending to around 12 meters. The square cut in the reef slopes down to a depth of 18 meters, where it connects with the main reef wall. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including sponges, sea fans, and small creatures such as lobsters, crabs, arrow crabs, and shrimp, along with schools of fish.
Fish Market
Fish Market is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates 20.812800, -86.866700. This site is known for its abundant marine life, particularly schools of Grunt Fish, which are the most frequently observed species here. Divers can also expect to see Queen Angelfish and French Angelfish among the diverse aquatic population. The site is situated just 10 minutes from the nearest boat access, making it easily reachable for divers.
Gibson Bight
Gibson Bight is a wall dive located off the northern coast of Roatan, reaching depths of around 27 meters (90 feet). The dive site features a prominent canyon that guides divers directly to the wall. Marine life includes spotted eagle rays, pufferfish, and porcupine fish, which inhabit the various ravines. Fire coral is also prevalent in this area.
Gonzalo'S Reef
Gonzalo's Reef features large finger corals and is known for its resident sea turtles, including Hawksbill, green, and loggerhead turtles. The maximum depth is 24 meters (80 feet) with visibility up to 30 meters (100 feet) and water temperatures ranging from 27°C to 32°C (80°F to 90°F). This site can be dived year-round with mild currents.
Great Wall
Great Wall is situated in Turtle Harbour, where divers can enter the water by rolling off the boat. The wall descends to a minimum depth of 50 meters, with the possibility of extending even deeper. The structure of the wall is notable, featuring healthy coral life on its surface. Divers may encounter lionfish nestled within the crevices of the wall, adding to the site's biodiversity.
Green Outhouse
Green Outhouse Wall is a boat-accessible dive site located in Roatan, Honduras, known for its suitability for divers of all experience levels. The site features a wall dive that offers a drift diving experience, which is typically recommended. It has received an average rating of 4.09 out of 5 from 11 divers. Facilities at the site include bathrooms and airfills, enhancing the convenience for divers.
Half Moon Caye Wall
Half Moon Caye Wall is a renowned dive site located at coordinates 17.204400, -87.536600. This site features a dramatic wall that showcases a variety of coral formations and offers excellent visibility. Divers can expect to encounter a range of marine life, including nurse sharks, reef sharks, and the possibility of spotting eagle rays and turtles. Additionally, the area is home to numerous fish species such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper. The dive is typically accessed by boat and is often chosen as a follow-up dive after visiting the Blue Hole.
Half Moon Caye Wall
Half Moon Caye Wall is a popular dive site in Belize featuring a dramatic drop-off. The wall is home to sand eels and various species of sharks, including nurse, lemon, and blacktip reef sharks. Coral structures and sea fans are prevalent at depths up to 130 feet.
Half Moon Wall
Half Moon Wall is situated off the coast of West End, starting at a depth of 15 feet and descending to 150 feet. The site features a variety of marine life, including flamingo tongues, black coral, and orange elephant sponges. Commonly observed species include groupers, wrasse, and chromis. This dive site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Hol Chan Marine Reserve is located just offshore from Ambergris Caye and is recognized for its excellent visibility and diverse marine life. The site features vibrant coral formations and is frequented by larger species such as nurse sharks, reef sharks, spotted eagle rays, large Southern stingrays, and various turtles. The reserve is accessible by boat, making it a convenient location for divers seeking to explore its rich underwater ecosystem.
Hol-Chan
Hol-Chan Marine Reserve is located south of San Pedro Ambergris Caye and features a depth range suitable for both snorkeling and scuba diving. The reserve includes diverse underwater habitats with a variety of marine life, such as nurse sharks, manta rays, sea turtles, and various fish species. Notable areas include the coral reef in Zone A and Shark and Ray Alley in Zone D.
Hole In The Wall
Hole In The Wall is a distinctive dive site located southwest of the boat channel at Mangrove Bight. It is marked on the Marine Park map by the Mangrove Bight buoy, though there is no buoy specifically for Hole In The Wall. The site is characterized by a variety of marine life, including jawfish, goatfish, peacock flounders, decorator crabs, rays, and occasional shark sightings. Divers can access the site from the shore.
Honeycomb Caves
Honeycomb Caves offers a shore diving experience characterized by a challenging entry over rough, rocky terrain, with some surge present. The dive site features vibrant coral formations and sea fans, providing a rich underwater environment. The maximum depth reaches approximately 18 meters. Divers may encounter small turtles resting in the surrounding seagrass, and there are occasional sightings of lionfish, along with the typical marine life found in other dives along the south side.
Infinity Bay House Reef
Infinity Bay House Reef is situated near West Bay and offers a variety of diving experiences, particularly for beginners on the inner reef. The site features an inner plateau where divers can encounter marine life such as eagle rays, stingrays, pipefish, and both conger and moray eels. A short distance from the shore, divers can access the outer wall, which leads to greater depths. The entry point is from the shore, making it easily accessible for divers and snorkelers alike.
Iron Bound
Iron Bound is a dive site characterized by a wall that descends to a depth of 70 feet, leading to expansive sandy areas. Located on the northeast side of the island, it is approximately 45 minutes from the nearest dive centers. The site features several swim-throughs and overhangs, providing a visually appealing environment for divers. Marine life commonly observed here includes barracudas, tarpons, and various species of grunts, with stingrays often found resting on the sandy bottom.
J-3
J-3 is a dive site located approximately 5 minutes from the boat launch, with a maximum depth of 9 meters. The site features a sandy bottom covered with a significant coral wall. Divers can expect to encounter various marine life, including lobsters, triggerfish, barracudas, blue tangs, angelfish, and, during certain seasons, turtles.
Jack Neil Bight
Jack Neil Bight is located approximately 10 minutes west of Main Utila Harbor. The site features clear turquoise waters over a sandy bottom, bordered by hard coral formations. A small sandy beach is present, accompanied by home docks along the coast. Divers can observe a variety of sponge species, including coral encrusting sponges, scattered pore rope sponges, horned rope sponges, lavender rope sponges, thin rope sponges, erect rope sponges, and barrel sponges. Additionally, numerous fish species inhabit the area, making it a diverse underwater environment.
Jack Neil Point
Jack Neil Point is located approximately 15 minutes west of Main Utila Harbor, adjacent to the Little Bight dive site. The site is recognizable from the surface by a small landmass that disrupts the otherwise uniform coastline, featuring dense vegetation and a prominent wall drop-off. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including Goat fishes, Grunts, Snappers, Electric Rays, Sting Rays, Eagle Rays, Sea Horses, Pipe Fishes, Trumpet Fish, Hamlets, and Wrasses.
Jardin del Eden Cenote (Ponderosa)
Jardin del Eden Cenote, also known as Ponderosa, is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates 20.491900, -87.258200. Divers can expect to see striking light rays penetrating the water, creating a unique visual experience. The cenote features fossilized coral formations and halocline layers that distort visibility. Freshwater species such as mollies, tetras, and Mesoamerican slider turtles inhabit the area. The surrounding environment is characterized by impressive rock formations and lush greenery, enhancing the natural beauty of the site.
Jardines
Jardines is a dive site that begins at a depth of approximately 12 meters (38 feet). Divers can observe a diverse array of soft corals, particularly large fan corals, gorgonians, and sea fans, which sway with the current. The site is accessible from the shore.
Jardines
Jardines is a shallow reef dive located at coordinates 20.624600, -87.060800, making it accessible from the shore. This site features clear waters with minimal current, ideal for beginner divers and snorkelers. Divers can explore numerous small caves and shelters that provide hiding spots for various fish species. The marine life here includes spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and a diverse array of reef fish, along with vibrant coral and sponges.
Joshua Swash
Joshua Swash is characterized by a drift dive experience over a plateau populated with porous sea rods, sponges, and various soft corals. The site features sand channels and swim-throughs that extend perpendicular to the coastline, with depths ranging from 45 feet to 70 feet. To the east, two sand channels can be found, with depths varying from 15 feet to 45 feet. Marine life commonly observed in this area includes Giant Barrel Sponges, Elkhorn Corals, Black Ball Sponges, Nurse Sharks, and Green Moray Eels, along with schools of Bluestriped Grunts, Black Durgeons, and Schoolmasters.
Julio Kin Scuba shore dive
Julio Kin is a shore dive site located at coordinates 20.482000, -86.972400. It is suitable for training dives and offers a relaxed diving experience. The site is known for its diverse marine life, including juvenile fish, small moray eels, and various macro species. Divers can also look for seahorses, frogfish, and nudibranchs. Additionally, sightings of eagle rays and turtles are possible here.
La Bandera
La Bandera is a dive site located south of Isla Mujeres with a maximum depth of 12 meters (40 feet), making it suitable for divers of all levels. The site features two rock formations, ledges, and overhangs, with marine life including barracudas, angelfish, moray eels, crabs, and lobsters. Average visibility is 18 meters (60 feet) and water temperatures are warm year-round.
La China Nómada
La China Nómada features a coral reef that has developed into vertical walls and a narrow canyon, where divers may occasionally spot a resting shark. The site is known for its lionfish, which can be found hiding among the structures. Following the walls, divers will encounter two islands adorned with large barrel sponges, contributing to the site's unique underwater landscape. Queen triggerfish are also commonly observed in this area.
La Francesa
La Francesa is a beginner-friendly dive site with depths ranging from 12 to 18 meters. The area features a sandy bottom with a large strip of corals and various coral formations, home to marine life such as barracudas, eagle rays, groupers, and turtles. Visibility is generally good, making it suitable for underwater photography.
La Francesa Shallows
La Francesa Shallows is a dive site located in Cozumel with depths ranging from 12 to 18 meters (40-60 feet). The site features a coral ridge that rises to about 6 meters (20 feet) from the bottom and is home to marine life such as butterflyfish, angelfish, blue tangs, jackknife fish, snappers, and lobsters. The dive has a moderate current, making it suitable for divers with some experience.
La Palomita
La Palomita is a dive site ideal for novice divers and photographers, featuring a maximum depth ranging from 9 to 12 meters (30 to 40 feet). The site experiences varying currents, from slow to moderate, which may impact shore diving. It serves as a nursery for marine life, showcasing numerous juvenile fish species. Divers can expect to encounter golden, spotted, and chain moray eels, various puffer fish, schools of grunts, and rays, along with a rich diversity of macro life.
La Poza, Xcalak
La Poza in Xcalak features an underwater trench that offers a wall dive experience. The depth varies from 5 meters (15 feet) to 26 meters (90 feet), with the potential for drift diving due to current conditions. Divers can explore numerous alcoves where various fish species take refuge, along with prominent coral structures at the dive's conclusion. At the start of the dive, elkhorn corals are present, and divers may encounter manatees. Additionally, large schools of tarpon, measuring around 2 meters (5-6 feet), are often seen in this area.
Labyrinth/Kenny’s Reef
Labyrinth, also known as Kenny's Reef, features a unique maze-like passage formed by coral walls. This dive site is situated off the coast of Utila and is accessible via shore entry. The underwater landscape includes intricate coral formations that create a visually striking environment. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life typical of the region, although specific species are not detailed in the source material. The site offers a range of depths suitable for divers of varying experience levels.
Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach features a dive site with rock formations and depths reaching up to 30 meters (100 feet). The area is characterized by an abundance of soft corals and a diverse marine ecosystem. Notable marine life includes black coral, butterfly fish, jacks, parrotfish, and angelfish, contributing to a rich underwater experience.
Laguna Kaan Luum
Laguna Kaan Luum features a central cenote that reaches depths of approximately 80 meters (262 feet), surrounded by shallow turquoise waters. The lagoon is known for its delicate ecosystem, which is protected by regulations prohibiting the use of sunscreen. Visitors are encouraged to wear protective clothing such as rash guards to minimize environmental impact.
Land of the Giants
Land of the Giants features a shallow top reef at a depth of 5 meters, leading to a steep wall characterized by numerous cracks and canyons towards the east. The sandy bottom begins at approximately 25 meters and gradually descends to depths exceeding 35 meters. The upper reef is vibrant and populated with a variety of soft corals, including plumes, rods, and whips. Divers can observe a range of grazing reef fish such as tangs, grunts, and yellowtails, making it an engaging end to the dive.
Las Brisas Jetty
Las Brisas Jetty is located near the harbor's entrance and features coral formations at a depth suitable for novice divers. Marine life includes grunts, moorish idols, needlefish, and sergeant majors. Expect light currents, but the area can experience swells and waves.
Las Palmas
Las Palmas dive site in Cozumel has a depth range of 9-15 meters, making it suitable for beginners. The area features tube and rope sponges, brain corals, and a variety of marine life including seahorses and honeycombed cowfish. Night dives are also possible here.
Las Palmas Reef
Las Palmas Reef features a gently sloping wall that descends from the Dzul Ha shelf, interspersed with sandy patches and coral formations. This dive site is accessible from the shore, beginning at the Money Bar and extending approximately 700 meters north to the Presidente Intercontinental hotel. It is particularly noted for night dives, where divers can observe a variety of marine life including king crabs, spiny lobsters, moray eels, and during certain seasons, playful squid and octopuses hiding among the sponges and coral.
Las Redes
Las Redes is a dive site located at a depth of 12 to 18 meters (40 to 60 feet) with no current, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. Marine life includes sea turtles, lobsters, groupers, and various schooling fish such as tangs, silver jacks, and barracudas. The site was historically associated with commercial fishing nets, but they are no longer present.
Lighthouse
Lighthouse is a well-known dive site suitable for divers of all experience levels. The site features sandy areas located at depths of 15-20 feet (5-6 meters), making it a preferred location for training. The surrounding reef is home to a variety of marine life, including jawfish, goatfish, peacock flounders, decorator crabs, rays, and the occasional shark. This diversity of life contributes to the site's popularity among divers.
Lighthouse Reef
Lighthouse Reef is located along the north coast of Roatan, west of West End. This dive site features a wall and channels, with a typical depth of around 15 meters (50 feet) and visibility of approximately 12 meters (40 feet). Expect to see hawksbill sea turtles, blue tangs, groupers, and pufferfish; hammerheads have also been spotted here. Suitable for divers of all levels, it has accessible shallow areas.
Linda's Wall
Linda's Wall is located on the south side and features a stunning vertical drop adorned with a variety of hard and soft corals. The site is easily accessible from the shore, making it a convenient option for divers. Within the nooks of the wall, divers can observe species such as Glassy Sweepers and Dog Snappers. Additionally, sightings of Seahorses and Eagle Rays are common in this area of the reef.
Little Bay
Little Bay features a sandy bottom with a depth of approximately 12 meters. It is typically calm, making it suitable for dive training, including Advanced Open Water and Instructor Development courses.
Little Bight
Little Bight features a broad sandy area that gently descends from the beach, extending beyond 30 meters. This site presents a notable gap in the reef that aligns with the shoreline. Divers can encounter a variety of marine life, including seahorses, juvenile green razorfish, upside-down jellyfish, and garden eels. The coral-covered walls provide opportunities for photography due to their unique formations.
Little Brother Cenote
Little Brother Cenote features a shallow entry that leads into a cavern filled with stalactites and an air dome. The site is characterized by clear waters, which contribute to a generally excellent diving experience. The water temperature remains stable at approximately 25°C (77°F) throughout the year. Located about 24 km south of Puerto Aventuras, this site is accessible from the shore.
Long Caye Aquarium
Long Caye Aquarium offers a wall dive that begins at a depth of approximately 6 meters, with a steep drop-off into depths exceeding 100 meters. The site is characterized by excellent visibility and a diverse array of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter species typical of the Caribbean, including nurse sharks, reef sharks, and the occasional eagle ray. Turtles, stingrays, and various fish such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper are also commonly observed.
Long Caye Ridge
Long Caye Ridge is a dive site situated in the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, accessible exclusively by boat. The site is characterized by healthy coral formations and a diverse array of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter typical Caribbean species such as nurse sharks, reef sharks, and the occasional eagle ray. Additionally, sightings of turtles, stingrays, and various fish species including snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper are common.
Long Caye Wall
Long Caye Wall is a notable dive site located on Glover’s Reef within the Lighthouse Reef Atoll. This wall dive features robust coral formations, large sponges, and a diverse array of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter common Caribbean species such as nurse sharks, reef sharks, and potentially eagle rays. Additionally, sightings of turtles, stingrays, and various fish species including snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper are frequent. The dive is accessible by boat.
Los Arcos
Los Arcos is a dive site located off Playa del Carmen, reaching depths of approximately 30 meters (100 feet). The site features two arches, each around 5 meters (15 feet) high, and is populated with hard corals, fan corals, and sponges. Marine life includes moray eels, crustaceans, and schools of fish. Visibility can reach up to 30 meters (100 feet), and the currents present make this site suitable for advanced divers.
Los Arcos - Playa del Carmen
Los Arcos in Playa del Carmen is a dive site characterized by strong currents, making it suitable for advanced divers. It is recommended to have NITROX certification to optimize dive time. Divers may need to conduct multiple dives to explore the various sections of the site. Marine life is diverse, with opportunities to encounter larger species such as sharks, groupers, and schools of spiny mackerels. Additionally, sightings of green morays, large snappers, lobsters, and turtles are common.
Maccallum Girls
Maccallum Girls is a shore dive site located at coordinates 16.329800, -86.480700. The area is characterized by a diverse array of corals, including both hard and soft varieties. Divers can observe numerous sea fans, Venus sea fans, wide-mesh sea fans, sea plumes, and corky sea fingers. The marine life is abundant, featuring many small fish and the occasional sighting of green eels in open water. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity typical of the barrier reefs surrounding Roatan.
Madelines
Madelines is located approximately 20 minutes west of Main Utila Harbor, adjacent to the Jack Neil Beach site. The dive site features shallow white sand areas and a gently sloping sandy bottom. Marine life commonly observed here includes Southern Star Gazers, Peacock Flounders, Sand Tilefish, upside-down jellyfish, and Caribbean reef squid. The site is accessible via shore entry.
Mahahual Reef
Mahahual Reef is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, recognized as the second-largest reef system globally. The site features clear waters and a diverse ecosystem, including healthy coral formations and vibrant sponges. Marine life is abundant, with opportunities to encounter spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and a variety of reef fish. The reef is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers and snorkelers alike.
Malu’s Mermaid Retreat
Malu’s Mermaid Retreat offers divers access to a diverse array of coral formations, including both hard and soft corals. The site features numerous sea fans, Venus sea fans, wide-mesh sea fans, sea plumes, and corky sea fingers. Small fish are abundant, and divers may occasionally spot green eels in open areas. The site is situated on the island of Roatan, known for its extensive barrier reefs that run parallel to the shoreline, providing a rich underwater environment for exploration.
Mama Vina
Mama Vina is a sunken shrimp boat located at depths between 18 and 30 meters, designed as an artificial reef since 1995. This site attracts various marine life such as barracudas, lobsters, moray eels, and stingrays. Due to strong currents, this site is recommended for advanced divers only.
Mama Viña (Wreck)
Mama Viña is the wreck of a ferry-style ship located at a depth of 28 meters. The site allows for exploration of the wreck's interior, which is in good condition and offers unrestricted access. Divers can enjoy ample marine life surrounding the wreck, making it a notable dive site for those interested in underwater exploration.
Manchones
Manchones Reef features over 800 meters of natural reef with staghorn, elkhorn, and brain corals, as well as two artificial reefs from the Underwater Museum of Art. Divers can see a variety of marine life, including wrasses, blue tangs, grunts, snappers, queen angelfish, parrotfish, and nurse sharks. The recommended entry type is boat.
Mandy'S Eel Garden
Mandy's Eel Garden is located off West Bay Beach, Roatan. It features a swim-through, a wall, and a sandy bottom, with depths suitable for beginners and low currents. Common marine life includes sea turtles, eagle rays, stingrays, and various fish species, making it ideal for both daytime and night dives.
Mandy’s Eel Garden
Mandy’s Eel Garden is situated at West Bay Beach, beginning at a depth of approximately 20 feet and extending toward the outer reef wall, which descends into deeper waters. This site is home to a variety of marine life, including peacock flounder, squid, juvenile drum fish, and parrot fish, among others. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers.
Maracaibo
Maracaibo is a wall dive site located near the Punta Celerain Lighthouse in Cozumel, with depths ranging from 30 to 100 feet. Advanced divers can expect to see marine life such as blacktip reef sharks, nurse sharks, large groupers, hawksbill sea turtles, and schools of hammerhead sharks, as well as coral limestone structures along the wall. This site is exposed to large ocean swells, so conditions can be challenging.
Maracaibo Reef
Maracaibo Reef is located at the southernmost point of Cozumel's eastern coastline. This site features a significant drop-off and includes a prominent arch, recognized as one of the notable underwater formations in the area. Divers can expect to encounter large pelagic species such as hammerhead sharks, blacktip sharks, large stingrays, and eagle rays during their dives. The entry to this site is by boat.
Mary’s Place
Mary’s Place is a notable dive site located on Roatan, characterized by an abundance of soft corals, including large blue fans and green and gold sea rods. The underwater landscape features various types of barrel and tube corals, creating an intricate environment for marine life. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of species such as rays, turtles, and grouper, among others. The site is accessible via shore entry, making it convenient for divers to explore its rich biodiversity.
Mayan Princess House Reef
The Mayan Princess House Reef, located directly off the Mayan Princess Hotel on Ambergris Caye, provides shallow diving opportunities suitable for both beginners and snorkelers. While it may not showcase the pristine conditions of Belize's renowned reefs, it offers easy access for divers. Marine life commonly observed includes nurse sharks, reef sharks, and the possibility of encountering eagle rays, turtles, and stingrays. Additionally, a variety of fish species such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper can be seen in this area.
Media Luna
Media Luna is a dive site located off Isla Mujeres at a depth of 10 to 12 meters (30 to 40 feet). Divers can explore various arches, ridges, and ledges while observing marine life such as corals, sponges, sea urchins, anemones, and lobsters. This site is suitable for divers of all levels and offers the possibility of dolphin sightings in the summer.
Media Luna
Media Luna is characterized by its crescent-shaped coral structure situated on a bed of white sand at a depth of approximately 15 meters. Divers can observe the unique shape of the formation during their descent. The site is home to various marine species, notably triggerfish, with yellowfin grunt fish being the most prevalent in this area.
Melissa'S Reef
Melissa's Reef, located outside of Sandy Bay on Roatan's northwest coast, features a shallow top reef with colorful corals, making it suitable for beginner divers. Advanced divers can explore steep walls and canyons teeming with marine life including king crabs, lobsters, eels, groupers, and seahorses. Expect moderate to strong currents during dives.
Mermaid’s Lair
Mermaid’s Lair is located off the coast of Ambergris Caye and is exclusively accessible by boat. The site features a shallow reef environment with minimal current, making it suitable for both diving and snorkeling. Visibility is generally good, allowing for clear views of the marine life. Divers and snorkelers can expect to encounter a variety of Caribbean species, including nurse sharks, reef sharks, and the occasional eagle ray. Turtles, stingrays, and numerous fish species such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper are also commonly observed in this area.
Mexico Rocks
Mexico Rocks is a patch reef located north of San Pedro, Belize, with an average depth of 4 meters (12 feet). The site features boulder corals and small patch reefs, providing habitat for juvenile fish, tube worm shrimp, flame scallops, anemones, eels, and lobsters. It is suitable for both divers and snorkelers.
Mexico Rocks
Mexico Rocks Marine Reserve is a shallow patch reef complex situated off the northern tip of Ambergris Caye. This site features around 100 Holocene patch reefs primarily composed of boulder corals, making it suitable for snorkeling due to its very shallow waters. Marine life commonly observed here includes nurse sharks, reef sharks, and the occasional eagle ray, as well as turtles, stingrays, and a variety of fish such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper.
Moc Che Deep
Moc Che Deep is a dive site characterized by depths ranging from 26 to 28 meters. The site experiences strong currents, making it suitable only for certified divers. The underwater landscape features numerous coral formations, providing a habitat for a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter large sponges, rays, turtles, and colorful fish throughout the reef, along with schools of larger fish, moray eels, and, depending on the season, sharks. A full neoprene wetsuit is advisable to protect against potential scratches while exploring the bottom.
Moc-Che
Moc-Che dive site is a reef located approximately 10 minutes by boat from Playa del Carmen. The dive starts at 7 meters and drops to a maximum depth of 30 meters, featuring coral formations and a small arch filled with sponges and various fish towards the end. Divers can expect to see marine life such as moray eels, lionfish, parrotfish, and king crabs.
Moon Hole
Moon Hole is characterized by a sizable sandy area bordered by coral formations, making it suitable for training dives such as Buoyancy and Open Water courses. Divers can navigate from this site across the coral to reach Ron's Wreck. The area is home to large sea stars and a variety of macro life. Divers may encounter black and white-spotted morays, while Ron's Wreck is known for sightings of green morays and lionfish.
Moonlight
Moonlight is a notable dive site characterized by a prominent reef and an impressive wall. The dive begins at the top of the reef, providing an opportunity to explore various marine life. Notable species include jawfish, goatfish, peacock flounders, decorator crabs, rays, and the occasional shark. The sandy areas beneath the mooring lines serve as suitable locations for training dives. This site is accessible via shore entry.
Moonlight Reef
Moonlight Reef is a dive site located in Roatan, about a 10-minute boat ride from the West End. The site features a deep wall with a maximum depth of 30 meters (100 feet) and is suitable for both beginner and advanced divers. Expect to see schools of horse-eye jacks and sea turtles, with excellent visibility and the option for night dives. Be cautious of boat traffic in the area.
Motorcycle Reef
Motorcycle Reef features the wreck of an old motorcycle covered in coral. It is located at a depth of 18 meters (60 feet) and attracts various marine life, including fish, arrow crabs, southern rays, and sea turtles. This site is suitable for divers of all levels and offers good visibility and photography opportunities.
Mr. Bud Wreck
Mr. Bud Wreck is a purpose-sunk cargo ship located off the south coast of Roatan at a depth of approximately 18 meters (60 feet). The wreck is 22 meters (75 feet) long and lies upright along the reef’s edge, with the upper decks at 13 meters (45 feet). Certified wreck divers can access several entry points to explore the ship, which is home to marine life such as jawfish, peacock flounders, and moray eels.
Musa: Under Water Museum
Musa, also known as the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art, features an array of 500 sculptures situated on the ocean floor, providing a unique diving experience. The site is characterized by its artificial reef structure, which attracts divers to explore the underwater art installations. While the surrounding area lacks dense coral reef ecosystems, divers can still encounter marine life such as stingrays, snapper, and parrotfish. The entry to this dive site is by boat, making it accessible for divers looking to appreciate both art and marine life.
Odyssey (Wreck)
The Odyssey Wreck lies at a depth of 110 feet off the coast of Roatan. This impressive structure measures 300 feet in length, 50 feet in width, and stands 85 feet tall. It was intentionally sunk in 2002 and is a donation from Hydes of Hybour, specifically for divers to explore. The area around the wreck is home to various marine species, including large grouper, barracuda, tuna, and grey sharks, making it a notable site for underwater observation.
Ojo de Agua
Ojo de Agua is a shore diving location featuring a cenote that merges with the sea, providing essential nutrients that support a diverse marine ecosystem. This site is notable for its rich fish population, including species such as Barracudas, Sergeant fish, Triggerfish, Queen Angelfish, Gray Angelfish, French Angelfish, as well as Lobsters and Octopus. Both daytime and night dives offer excellent opportunities for observing this vibrant marine life.
Over Heat
Over Heat is a dive site located at coordinates 16.277300, -86.600200, accessible from the shore. This site is known for its vibrant marine life, particularly when a gentle current flows over it. Divers can observe various species including turtles, groupers, creole wrasse, and triggerfish while drifting along the reef. The site is favored for its lively underwater ecosystem, making it a popular choice among divers.
Overheat Reef
Overheat Reef features a depth of up to 100 feet with a mix of hard and soft coral. Divers can expect to see various marine life including sea turtles, seahorses, trumpetfish, and large schools of fish.
Pablos Place
Pablos Place is situated on the western tip of the island and features a vertical reef wall that begins at approximately 15 meters. Divers can expect a moderate drift due to the east to west current, making it suitable for recreational diving. The site is known for occasional sightings of hammerhead sharks as they approach from deeper waters. Other marine life includes barracuda, eagle rays, yellowtail snappers, and black coral, providing a diverse underwater experience.
Palace Reef
Palace Reef is accessible from the shore and is located near the Cozumel Palace Hotel. This site features a variety of marine life, including smaller fish that are often found close to the shoreline, such as cuttlefish and rock beauties, along with other colorful species. The reef offers opportunities to explore the diverse marine flora and fauna characteristic of the surrounding waters of Cozumel.
Palancar Bricks
Palancar Bricks is an intermediate to advanced level dive site located in Cozumel, Mexico. The dive features large reef formations, swim-throughs, and visibility exceeding 30 meters. Common marine life includes damselfish, groupers, and barracudas, with a sandy bottom at a depth of about 30 meters.
Palancar Bricks
Palancar Bricks is located at the southern end of the renowned Palancar Reef. This dive site offers multiple swim-throughs at varying depths, making it accessible for divers of all skill levels. The area is known for its macro photography opportunities. Divers can expect to see turtles throughout the year, along with eagle rays and reef sharks that are more commonly observed during the winter months.
Palancar Caves
Palancar Caves is a multi-level drift dive suitable for intermediate divers, with depths ranging from 12 to 37 meters (40 to 120 feet). The site features various coral formations, including towers, spires, and gullies. Marine life is less abundant compared to other Cozumel locations, but you may see species such as reef fish and occasional larger species.
Palancar Caves
Palancar Caves is primarily a multi-level drift dive that begins at deeper depths, often reaching the recreational limit. Divers can navigate through a series of underwater tunnels and caves, providing a unique exploration experience. As the dive progresses, the route ascends to shallower areas, concluding the dive. Marine life commonly encountered includes spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and a variety of reef fish, along with the endemic Splendid toadfish, which is exclusive to Cozumel.
Palancar Gardens
Palancar Gardens is a notable dive site located in Cozumel, featuring a shallow reef that begins at a depth of 10 meters and descends to a mini wall reaching over 40 meters. The site is characterized by various caverns and swim-throughs, providing opportunities for exploration. The reef exhibits a healthy ecosystem with excellent visibility and a diverse array of marine life. Notable species that can be encountered here include spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and the endemic Splendid toadfish, which is unique to the region.
Palancar Horseshoe
Palancar Horseshoe is a U-shaped reef dive site located at a depth of 9 meters (30 feet) at the top and ranging from 18 to 24 meters (60-80 feet) for the drift dive. The site features tall coral formations, sponges, and large gorgonian sea fans, with numerous swim-throughs and various underwater structures. Marine life is less abundant, with some common species present.
Palancar Horseshoe
Palancar Horseshoe is a notable section of the Palancar Reef located in Cozumel, Mexico. This dive site features a horseshoe-shaped notch in the reef wall, characterized by large coral heads and substantial barrel sponges. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and the endemic Splendid toadfish, which is unique to the region. The site is accessed by boat.
Palancar: Gardens
Palancar Gardens is suitable for novice divers and features depths between 9 and 24 meters. The site contains a variety of soft and hard corals, sponges, and gorgonians that provide habitat for species such as damselfish, snappers, moray eels, and parrotfish, along with occasional sightings of turtles.
Palmetto Keyhole
Palmetto Keyhole features a unique underwater landscape typical of Roatan's channels, starting at a depth of approximately 30 feet. Divers can explore the channel's impressive topography, which includes various overhangs. The site is home to a variety of marine life, including butterflyfish, fan worms, and small leaf hanging vines, as well as star coral. Additionally, divers may encounter soft corals like plumes and rods, along with schools of black durgon and yellowtail snapper.
Paradise Canyons
Paradise Canyons features distinct finger canyon formations and is located off the coast of San Pedro. The dive site reaches depths between 60 and 70 feet, making it suitable for experienced divers. Marine life commonly observed here includes nurse sharks, reef sharks, and the occasional eagle ray, along with turtles, stingrays, and various fish species such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper. The site is accessible by boat.
Paradise Reef - Cozumel
Paradise Reef consists of three distinct patch reefs that run parallel to the shore, making it one of the few dive sites on Cozumel that can be accessed from land. The maximum depth at this site reaches 45 feet, making it suitable for both beginner divers and snorkelers. Marine life commonly observed here includes spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and a variety of reef fish, including the endemic Splendid toadfish, which is unique to Cozumel.
Paraiso Reef
Paraiso Reef is the initial reef encountered when entering the Marine Park, making it a favored location for second dives and night dives. The dive typically begins near the local marina and follows a drift northward, influenced by a current that generally flows from south to north. The site features several coral ridges that run parallel to the shoreline. Divers can expect to see schools of grunts, snappers, and sergeant majors, along with numerous queen angelfish. Additionally, various anemones and a diverse range of sponges can be found attached to the coral heads.
Pared Verde
Pared Verde is a dive site for advanced divers, with depths ranging from 21 to 30 meters and moderate to strong currents, making it suitable for drift diving. The dive features smaller walls interspersed with sandy areas, leading to a prominent main wall. Marine life includes typical species found in the Cozumel/Playa del Carmen region, such as damselfish and other reef inhabitants.
Pargo Cave
Pargo Cave is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates 20.635700, -87.054800. This site features a notable underwater sculpture, the 'Virgen del Carmen,' which is over 2 meters tall and made from a conch shell, providing a unique photo opportunity. The dive site is characterized by a diverse array of marine life, including various mollusks, crustaceans, and a wide range of fish species. Additionally, divers may encounter turtles and rays among the coral formations, sandbanks, and seaweed meadows present in the area. The site is suitable for beginners and is often recommended as a second dive after a deeper dive due to its shallower depths and calmer conditions.
Pargos
Pargos is a dive site with a maximum depth of 18 meters. It features numerous white sand pathways that weave through coral formations, showcasing a diverse array of gorgonians, sea fans, and stony corals. The predominant marine life at this location includes various species of grunt fish, contributing to the site's ecological diversity.
Paso Del Cedral
Paso Del Cedral is a dive site in Cozumel suitable for both wall drift dives and shallower reef dives. The depth reaches around 18 meters (60 feet) with moderate to strong currents, making it ideal for beginner to intermediate divers. Marine life includes porcupine fish, grunts, groupers, sting rays, moray eels, turtles, parrotfish, and scorpion fish, along with various hard corals and sponges.
Peter'S Place
Peter's Place is a dive site located off the western shore of Sandy Bay. The shallow wall starts at about 15 feet (6 meters) and drops to a deeper wall at around 50 feet (15 meters), featuring coral formations like elkhorn and tube corals, along with sponges and gorgonians. Marine life includes schools of horse-eye jacks, groupers, lionfish, parrotfish, crabs, eels, and often sea turtles.
Pillar Coral
Pillar Coral is characterized by a prominent coral spire located just off the reef wall. The site features a mooring at a depth of 10 meters, with a brief swim leading divers to the top of the spire, which reaches approximately 27 meters. The dive site extends beyond recreational limits, necessitating careful depth monitoring. Marine life commonly observed includes various corals, sea fans, sponges, as well as butterfly fish, angel fish, snapper, sweetlips, and barracuda.
Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is a shore dive site located in a biosphere reserve, known for its diverse marine life. The area is home to various species including turtles, clownfish, doris, emperors, lobsters, seabass, pufferfish, and palette surgeonfish. The site features a coral reef ecosystem, providing a habitat for these species. Visibility can vary, and divers may encounter both shallow and deeper sections of the reef during their exploration.
Pretty Bush
Pretty Bush is a dive site that begins at the shoreline and descends to a depth of 15 feet before dropping off to 100 feet. The area features broken walls and sand channels, creating a varied underwater landscape. Divers can expect to see juvenile Yellow-tail Damsel fish and Lettuce Sea Slugs in the shallower regions. As you explore the wall, look for Spotted Eagle Rays, Angelfish, and Trumpet fish, which are commonly observed here.
Prince Albert Wreck
The Prince Albert wreck is a 50-meter (165-foot) long tanker sunk in 1985, located at a depth suitable for dive operations. The wreck features coral, algae, and sea sponges, with various fish species observed both inside and outside. Advanced divers can penetrate the wreck for exploration, and eagle rays and stingrays are commonly seen in the area.
Pubudus Playground
Pubudus Playground begins at a depth of 10 meters (30 feet) on a sandy area, making it an ideal location for practicing navigation skills away from the nearby wall. The site features intriguing canyon formations that lead towards the wall, which is adorned with large barrel sponges and tubular sponges. Divers can explore the sandy patches for macro life, enhancing the experience with opportunities for close-up observations.
Puentes
Puentes is a dive site characterized by its unique coral formations that resemble natural bridges, located at a depth of approximately 20 meters. Divers can explore these structures while observing a variety of marine life, including larger fish species such as yellowfin grunts, filefish, and groupers. The site is accessible via shore entry, making it convenient for divers to access the underwater features directly.
Puerto de Abrigo
Puerto de Abrigo features a wall dive that begins at a depth of 15 meters and extends over one kilometer to the north, reaching past the Coral Princess hotel. The site is characterized by strong currents that can carry divers along the reef, sometimes resulting in finishing dives at different locations. Marine life includes barracudas, grunts, and surgeonfish year-round, with notable seasonal visits from schools of eagle rays that swim against the current, showcasing their strength.
Puerto Morelos The Aquarium
Puerto Morelos The Aquarium is a notable dive site located within the Puerto Morelos Reefs National Marine Park. The site features a reef structure characterized by ridges that support a diverse array of marine life, including both stony and soft corals. Divers can expect to encounter large schools of Yellow grunts, schoolmasters, porkfish, trumpetfish, as well as nurse sharks and moray eels. The site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers to explore the vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Punta Arena Canyons
Punta Arena Canyons, also known as Small Cut, is a deep cavern dive featuring tunnels, canyons, and caves at depths between 18 and 30 meters. Marine life includes nurse sharks, barracudas, Nassau groupers, and lobsters. Note that the tunnel walls contain red algae with a rough texture; avoid contact to prevent scrapes.
Punta Dalila
Punta Dalila is a well-known shallow dive site located in Cozumel, with depths ranging from 12 to 18 meters (40 to 60 feet). This site is suitable for snorkeling and beginner divers. Marine life commonly observed here includes nurse sharks, turtles, spotted eagle rays, stingrays, moray eels, and a variety of reef fish. Notably, the endemic Splendid toadfish can also be found in this area.
Punta Francesa
Punta Francesa features a shelf reef that extends southward from the northern end of Punta Dalila. The dive typically reaches a maximum depth of 55 feet, with divers able to enjoy a bottom time of around one hour. The site is characterized by calm waters and a colorful reef ecosystem, where divers may encounter marine life such as turtles and sharks. Currents are generally slow to moderate, providing favorable conditions for underwater photography.
Punta Negra
Punta Negra is a reef dive site with a maximum depth of 18 meters (60 feet), making it suitable for divers of all levels. Expect to see a variety of marine life including basking sharks, bull sharks, amberjacks, snappers, angelfish, pufferfish, lionfish, stonefish, sea turtles, and crabs. This site features corals, sea sponges, and sea fans, and diving is available year-round.
Punta Sur
Punta Sur features depths between 15 to 27 meters, suitable for experienced divers due to medium currents. The southern area has a chamber known as The Cathedral, while the north has a challenging cave formation called Devil's Throat. Marine life includes various sponges, soft and hard corals, gropers, snappers, and grunts.
Punta Sur - Devil’s Throat
Punta Sur - Devil’s Throat is a dive site suited for advanced divers due to strong currents and significant depths. The entry point is approximately 90 feet deep, leading into a narrow cavern that descends to 140 feet. This site is known for sightings of large marine life, including reef sharks, occasional hammerheads, and eagle rays. The caverns also host large lionfish, adding to the site's unique underwater ecosystem.
Punta Sur - Isla Mujeres
Punta Sur, located at the southern tip of Isla Mujeres, is approximately 15 minutes north of the island. This site is known for its drift diving, particularly from May to July when large turtles can be observed. Divers may encounter various marine life including big barracudas, stingrays, and dolphins. Notable features include a large anchor and a long chain resting on the bottom.
Punta Tunich
Punta Tunich features depths between 15 and 37 meters and is only suitable for advanced divers due to strong currents. The dive starts on a sandy bottom leading to a drop-off with a variety of marine life, including soft and hard corals, sponges, and various fish species.
Punta Tunich
Punta Tunich is primarily accessed from the shore and is often chosen as a second dive site. The northern section of the reef is particularly notable, especially when there is a current flowing from south to north. Divers can expect to encounter large green moray eels along the reef, as well as turtles that can be found among the seagrass.
Punta Venado
Punta Venado is a drift dive site located off Playa del Carmen, accessible by boat in about 15 minutes. The site has a depth range of 20-35 meters with strong currents and visibility exceeding 30 meters, making it suitable for intermediate and advanced divers. The area features a sandy and rocky bottom with abundant coral and marine life, including moray eels, parrotfish, and triggerfish.
Raggedy Cay
Raggedy Cay is a small island located off the western end of Utila. The dive site features a flat bottom at approximately 6 meters, leading to a wall that descends gradually to around 40 meters. The mooring is situated some distance from the wall, which can make navigation challenging. Common marine life includes nurse sharks and green moray eels, and it is also a suitable location for hunting lionfish. Green turtles may also be spotted in the area.
Red Cliff
Red Cliff is located on the southeastern side of Utila Island in Honduras. This dive site features a wall adorned with red hard and soft corals, which is the source of its name. The site is easily accessible from the shore, making it a convenient option for divers. Marine life commonly observed here includes red corals, boxfish, lionfish, eels, and groupers. Divers should also watch for rays resting on the sandy bottom.
Rocky Point
Rocky Point features a sloping wall that becomes more vertical as you move eastward. Depths can exceed 40 meters, making it suitable for Extended Range training. Divers can also enjoy a drift dive heading west. At shallower depths, a variety of marine life such as wrasses, blue tangs, jacks, and butterfly fish are commonly observed. In the deeper areas, lionfish are present.
Rodman
Rodman is a dive site located just a few meters from the second largest coral reef globally. The dive occurs at a shallow depth of approximately 7 meters, featuring various coral formations. Visibility and current conditions can vary significantly at this site. The abundant coral supports a diverse marine ecosystem, where divers can observe species such as barracudas, grunter fish, and various types of parrot fish.
Ron’s Wreck
Ron’s Wreck is located west of Moon Hole and rests at a depth of approximately 60 feet (18.28 meters). This site features the remains of an old shrimp fishing vessel. Divers can encounter various marine life, including moray eels, lionfish, and rare nudibranchs. Additionally, spotted eagle rays, schools of blue tangs, and lettuce sea slugs may also be observed in the vicinity of the wreck.
Sabalos
Sabalos is a dive site featuring fringing reefs with a maximum depth of 12.5 meters. Expect strong currents that promote diverse hard and soft coral growth. Marine life includes tarpon in late summer, along with sea turtles, snappers, barracudas, yellow-band grunts, and starfish on the sand.
Saint George’s Caye
Saint George’s Caye is a private island located offshore from Belize City, providing access to various dive sites in the region. The site is known for its diverse marine life, including nurse sharks, reef sharks, eagle rays, turtles, stingrays, and a variety of fish species such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper. The entry point for diving is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore the underwater ecosystem.
San Clemente
San Clemente is a shallow barrier reef located approximately 500 meters from the shore at the Sunscape/Secrets resort. The site has a maximum depth of 30 to 40 feet and extends over 900 meters in length. It experiences mild currents, making it suitable for both the final dive of the day and night dives. The reef structure is predominantly flat, featuring numerous crevices and nooks that provide habitats for various marine life, including lobsters, moray eels, and stingrays. Night divers may encounter octopus and squid during their explorations.
San Clemente
San Clemente Reef is suitable for beginner divers with depths ranging from 10 to 15 meters and minimal current. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including spotted moray eels, butterflyfish, groupers, snappers, and seahorses among the grasses. The site shares characteristics with nearby Yucab and Tormentos Reefs, offering a diverse underwater environment.
San Francisco Wall
San Francisco Wall is characterized by a steep drop-off that presents strong currents, making it suitable for advanced divers. The site is known for its frequent sightings of eagle rays, particularly in the sandy areas at the top of the reef. Divers can also observe large barrel sponges and turtles, along with deep water Gorgonians. Visibility often exceeds 30 meters, providing excellent conditions for exploration.
San Francisco Wall
San Francisco Wall is a dive site in Cozumel starting at 15 meters and reaching depths of up to 60 meters. The site features a healthy reef with brain corals, large sponges, and diverse marine life, including winding tunnels and steep wall formations. The southern section is low-lying, while the middle and northern sections include swimmable tunnels and caves.
San Juan Reef
San Juan Reef is situated in the northern region and is typically explored as a follow-up dive after Barracuda or Cantrel. The site is characterized by extensive finger corals, lettuce corals, and sand sponges. Divers can observe various marine life, including schools of french grunts and schoolmasters around the ledges and overhangs. Additionally, the reef is populated with numerous damselfish and red seaweed, contributing to the site's ecological diversity.
San Pedro - Belize
San Pedro is located on Ambergris Caye in Belize and is known for its diverse marine life typical of the Caribbean. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of fish species commonly found in the region. The site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers to enter the water directly. The underwater environment offers a rich experience for both novice and experienced divers.
San Pedro Canyons - Belize
San Pedro Canyons, also referred to as Tuffy Canyons, is situated directly in front of the main channel of San Pedro Town. This dive site features a variety of stony corals that create a loose framework, providing shelter for small invertebrates such as brittle stars, shrimp, and crabs. Divers can encounter typical Caribbean marine life, including nurse sharks, reef sharks, potential sightings of eagle rays, turtles, and stingrays. The fish population is diverse, with species like snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper commonly observed. The site is accessed by boat.
Santa Rosa Shallows
Santa Rosa Shallows serves as a complementary dive site to the renowned Santa Rosa Wall. The maximum depth here is 60 feet, and divers can expect a mild current, making it suitable for observing the diverse marine life along the patchy reef system. Notable wildlife encounters include spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and a variety of reef fish. Additionally, divers may spot the endemic Splendid toadfish, which is unique to the Cozumel area.
Santa Rosa Wall
Santa Rosa Wall is a renowned dive site characterized by its steep drop-off, reaching depths of several hundred feet. This site is recommended for advanced divers due to the rapid descent and potential for strong currents. Divers can explore various swim-throughs along the wall, adding to the dive experience. Marine life commonly encountered includes spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and the unique Splendid toadfish, which is endemic to the Cozumel area. The entry to this dive site is from the shore.
Santa Rosa Wall
Santa Rosa Wall is located directly in front of the Occidental Cozumel hotel, featuring a steep drop-off that leads to the abyss. Divers can explore several pass-throughs that connect the deeper waters with a relatively shallow shelf. Nearby, there are coral formations that provide a suitable area for safety stops. Marine life includes turtles, eagle rays, and seahorses, which can often be spotted atop the wall. Additionally, hammerhead sharks are known to visit the site occasionally from the deeper waters.
Santa Rosa Wall
Santa Rosa Wall is a dive site in Cozumel with depths ranging from 15 to 36 meters. It features strong currents, making it suitable for intermediate divers. The site consists of rocky coral structures, sponges, gorgonians, sandy bottoms, and overhangs for exploration.
Seaquest Deep
Seaquest Deep is a shore entry dive site located at coordinates 16.290500, -86.603400. The site features sandy bottoms that are home to a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to see Yellow Head Jawfish, pipefish, juvenile Trunk Fish, and blennies. Additionally, Southern Stingrays can often be found buried in the sand. This site is frequently visited by divers in Roatan due to its accessibility and the abundance of aquatic life.
Seaquest Shallow
Seaquest Shallow is a shallow reef that begins on a sandy bottom and rises to a depth of 18 feet. Located in West End, this site is easily accessible from the shore. The top of the reef features large grooved brain coral and boulder brain coral. Marine life such as conger eels and flute fish can be observed in this area.
Shangri La - Playa del Carmen
Shangri-La is a dive site located just a 5-minute boat ride from central Playa del Carmen. The reef runs parallel to the shore, allowing divers to navigate the site either from north to south or vice versa, depending on the current conditions. Marine life at this site includes spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and a variety of reef fish. Notably, the endemic Splendid toadfish, which is unique to Cozumel, can also be encountered here.
Shangri-La
Shangri-La is a dive site located in Playa del Carmen, with depths ranging from 6 to 10 meters and minimal current, making it suitable for novice divers. The site features a small reef edge leading to a coral garden that hosts a variety of marine life, including sea fans, gorgonians, and various species of hard and soft corals, as well as crustaceans like lobsters and crabs.
Shark Bait Shallow
Shark Bait Shallow features brain corals, lettuce leaf corals, gorgonians, and various sea fans. The site has a sloping wall that drops to deeper depths, with a maximum depth of around 30 meters. Look for nurse sharks, stingrays, eels, flounders, blue tangs, surgeonfish, groupers, clownfish, sea turtles, and seahorses.
Shark Point
Shark Point, located just offshore from Playa del Carmen, is a dive site with a depth of approximately 25 meters where divers can see bull sharks and stingrays. The best time to dive here is from November to March.
Shark Point - Playa del Carmen
Shark Point is located approximately 5 minutes by boat from the coast of Playa del Carmen. This dive site is known for the opportunity to encounter pregnant bull sharks in their natural habitat. Divers can expect an exciting experience while learning about shark conservation and protection. The site provides a unique chance to observe these majestic creatures up close, enhancing both the thrill and educational aspect of the dive.
Shark-Ray Alley
Shark-Ray Alley is a dive site in Belize located at a depth of 2.4 meters (8 feet). The area attracts Southern stingrays and nurse sharks due to fish offal from local fishermen. This site is suitable for both snorkeling and diving.
Ship Wreck C-53
The C-53 wreck is located at a depth of 21 meters, with the upper deck at 12 meters. This 56-meter-long and 10-meter-wide minesweeper, sunk in 2000, serves as an artificial reef and is suitable for experienced divers. Marine life includes various fish species and invertebrates, making it an interesting dive site.
Silver Gardens
Silver Gardens is situated on the south side of the island, approximately 20 minutes from the main hub. The dive site features four distinct markers, with the shallowest area reaching a depth of 20 feet, characterized by sandy patches. The depth gradually descends to around 100 feet. Divers can observe notable marine life including black coral, groupers, green moray eels, schools of black margates, chubs, squid, and green sea turtles.
Simio Bipolar
Simio Bipolar consists of a series of coral islands situated on a flat sandy bottom. The dive site is suitable for both novice divers and those with Open Water certification, with depths ranging from 9 meters (30 feet) to 15 meters (50 feet). Visibility typically exceeds 20 meters (65 feet), allowing for clear observation of the diverse marine life. Commonly spotted species include various triggerfish, such as the black durgeon and queen triggerfish, as well as angelfishes. Notably, divers may also encounter spotted eagle rays, adding to the site's appeal.
Sleeping Shark Cave
Sleeping Shark Cave is an advanced dive site located on the northern side of the island, accessible by boat after a 30-minute ride. The dive reaches a depth of 16 meters and may experience some current. Divers can encounter a variety of marine life including fish, sharks, turtles, lionfish, barracudas, batfish, stingrays, and eels.
Sleeping Sharks Cave
Sleeping Sharks Cave features a maximum depth of approximately 20 meters (65 feet) with a moderate current. Divers can expect to see resting sharks on the bottom due to the high oxygen content in the water bubbles, which allows them to remain stationary. This site is accessed by boat.
Smith Banks
Smith Banks is suitable for both snorkeling and diving, with depths ranging from 6 to 12 meters (20 to 40 feet). The large coral mounds host a variety of marine life, making it comparable to nearby boat dives. The area experiences mild currents, making it accessible for divers of all experience levels.
Spooky Channel
Spooky Channel is a dive site that connects the inner lagoon to the outer reef. It features underwater canyons that divers can explore. Common marine life includes starfish, lobsters, parrotfish, angelfish, and groupers. The site is characterized by coral-covered canyons, making it a notable location for divers.
Spooky Channel
Spooky Channel is a deep canyon with a maximum depth of 30 meters. The channel features overhead coral that reduces light, creating limited visibility due to the murky waters of Sandy Bay lagoon. At the deepest point, there is a cathedral-shaped chamber populated with lobsters and starfish.
Spotted Bay
Spotted Bay is a shallow dive located on the north side, characterized by a sandy area that transitions into a less defined wall compared to other sites in Turtle Harbor. Divers can explore a secondary wall further out, which requires a longer swim from the main wall. This site is known for frequent sightings of nurse sharks, and the unique terrain makes it an effective location for hunting lionfish.
Stingray Point
Stingray Point offers a shore entry leading divers across sandy terrain to a wall. After approximately 15 minutes of swimming, divers will reach a significant crack in the rock at a depth of 18 meters. This crack measures between 1.5 to 2.0 meters in width and extends about 100 meters, serving as an ideal turnaround point for the dive. During the exploration, divers may encounter various marine life, including grunts, stingrays, spotted eagle rays, and potentially a manta ray in the sandy channel.
Sturges Bank
Sturges Bank is located within the main harbor of Utila, characterized by underwater formations that resemble small hills, all covered with coral. This site is protected, allowing for a diverse marine ecosystem. Divers can find three fixed mooring lines here. The marine life includes moray eels, stingrays, goatfish, seahorses, and a variety of soft and hard corals, along with sponges and numerous juvenile fish species.
Tabyanas
Tabyanas, also known as 'Herbie’s Fantasy or Place', is a saltwater dive site situated in West Bay, Roatan, Honduras. The site features a maximum depth ranging from 36 to 40 feet (11 to 12 meters) and offers an average visibility of 71 to 80 feet (22 to 24 meters). Divers can expect to see a variety of marine life, including king crabs, angelfish, whitespotted filefish, and spotted moray eels, particularly along the first wall, which showcases marine life similar to that found at shallower depths on other dive sites. Entry to the site is from the shore.
Tackle Box
Tackle Box is a well-known dive site located off Ambergris Caye, characterized by its canyons, caverns, and tunnels that provide ample opportunities for exploration. Divers can encounter a variety of marine life, including lobsters, eels, and schools of jacks. The site is also home to typical Caribbean species such as nurse sharks, reef sharks, eagle rays, turtles, and stingrays, along with various fish like snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper. The entry to the site is from the shore.
Tankah II
Tankah II is situated in Tankah Bay, just north of Tulum, Mexico, and is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef system. This site is accessible by boat and is suitable for both beginner and intermediate divers. The dive site features a variety of marine life, including angelfish and barracuda, along with numerous reef species. The vibrant coral formations contribute to the diverse underwater ecosystem, making it an engaging location for divers.
Ted's Point
Ted's Point is a dive site located on the south side, featuring a sandy bottom at approximately 18 meters (60 feet). The eastern sloping wall descends to depths exceeding 30 meters (100 feet), while the western side remains shallower at around 18 meters (60 feet). Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including tunicates, sponges, young brain corals, brown garden eels, stargazers, free-swimming morays, permits, groupers, and yellow head jawfish.
Texas (The Point)
The dive site known as Texas is located near the Salt Life Point buoy, with the actual dive area situated off the westernmost point of the island. The depth at the Texas buoy is approximately 40 feet (12 meters). Divers should be prepared for potentially strong currents that can push them away from the island and into deeper waters, which may result in shorter dive durations. Marine life at this site includes large barrel sponges, gorgonian fans, and various fish species such as grouper, snapper, yellowtail, Atlantic spadefish, and barracuda. The abundance of marine life can vary due to the current conditions, making each dive experience unique.
The Bight
The Bight is characterized by a shallow dive with a maximum depth of approximately 20 meters (80 feet). This site is well-known for its extensive barrier reef and diverse marine life, including common sightings of turtles and grouper. The visibility typically reaches around 25 meters or more, making it a suitable location for beginner divers. The area also offers opportunities to observe smaller marine creatures and their interactions on the reef.
The Boot
The Boot is a dive site featuring a reef structure located at a depth of approximately 30 feet. Divers can observe a variety of marine life including fish and corals. Entry is typically from the shore.
The Crucible Warfighter Scuba
The Crucible Warfighter Scuba features a shallow area characterized by sea grass and sand, located within the reef. This site includes an underwater obstacle course designed for buoyancy training, making it suitable for beginners and ideal for practicing Open Water skills. Marine life commonly observed here includes sea stars, fireworms, and lobsters, with occasional dolphin sightings. The open nature of the site means that currents can vary, which may affect visibility at times.
The Halliburton (Wreck)
The Halliburton is a wreck dive site located at coordinates 16.086600, -86.895900. This cargo ship was intentionally sunk in 1998 to serve as an artificial reef. The ship's deck lies at a depth of 20 meters, while the top of the bridge is at 18 meters. The overall length of the vessel is 30 meters. Divers can observe various marine life, including small crabs and shrimps that inhabit the ship's cracks and crevices, as well as larger schooling fish that can be seen around the outer areas of the bridge.
The Lighthouse Reef
The Lighthouse Reef is marked by a concrete pillar that rises approximately 10 meters above the water, indicating the entry channel to Utila Harbor. This site is frequently visited due to its proximity to various dive centers on the island. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including tarpons, grunts, groupers, stingrays, eagle rays, needlefish, goatfish, wrasses, and occasionally turtles. The area is also characterized by a dense forest of sponges, providing a rich habitat for these species.
The Maze
The Maze is characterized by its distinctive maze-like channels, with an average depth of 12 meters (40 feet). The upper section of the reef is shallower, reaching depths of around 4.5 meters (15 feet). Beyond the buoy, the sandy bottom transitions into deeper waters. Divers can observe various marine life, including Black Surgeon and Queen Triggerfish, as well as Lionfish, Lobsters, Spotted Drums, and Scorpionfish, which thrive in the site's shadowy environment.
The Odyssey
The Odyssey is a large wreck dive site located in Roatan. The ship measures approximately 90 meters long, 15 meters wide, and 25 meters tall, and is mostly intact. Divers can penetrate the wreck with experienced oversight, and marine life such as barracudas, groupers, and tunas can be observed, although the site is still developing its wildlife population.
The Pinnacle
The Pinnacle is located on the northern side of Turtle Harbor, specifically in the eastern section. The reef rises to a depth of approximately 15 to 20 feet (4.5 to 6 meters). Divers can explore several shallow channels by moving away from the wall. Marine life in this area includes Spotted Eagle Rays, Turtles, Lionfish, Angelfish, and Groupers, with the possibility of encountering Midnight Parrotfish for those lucky enough.
The Wall
The Wall is a dive site characterized by its stunning underwater landscape situated between two reef crests. The area is notable for its extensive formations of stony corals, gorgonians, and sea fans. Divers can expect to encounter green turtles foraging on the sea grass, along with various fish species, including grunts and sergeant majors. This site is accessible from the shore.
Tikila Beach
Tikila Beach is situated just south of the town and serves as an effective entry point for both confined and open water training. The maximum depth here reaches 20 feet, and the site offers some protection from currents. It is also suitable for night dives and is favored by photographers due to its macro photography opportunities, including regular sightings of seahorses. To the north, there is a coral reef restoration area, and the nearby artificial reefs attract a diverse range of marine life.
Toffee Canyons
Toffee Canyons is located off the coast of Ambergris Caye and is characterized as a shallow dive site, making it suitable for novice divers and snorkelers. The site features a healthy reef ecosystem that supports a variety of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter common Caribbean species such as nurse sharks, reef sharks, and the occasional eagle ray. Additionally, sightings of turtles, stingrays, and various fish species including snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper are frequent.
Tormentos
Tormentos is a favored dive site in Cozumel, known for its shallow depth, which averages around 20 meters (65 feet), and typically experiences minimal current. The reef is in excellent condition, supporting a diverse array of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter species such as spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and a variety of reef fish. Notably, the endemic Splendid toadfish, unique to Cozumel, can also be observed here.
Tormentos
Tormentos is a dive site suitable for intermediate divers, with depths ranging from 8 to 26 meters and strong currents. It features a patch reef system with various sponges, soft and hard corals, and marine life including moray eels, snappers, and groupers. Water temperature ranges from 25 to 29 degrees Celsius.
Tormentos Reef
Tormentos Reef, located 600 meters from a sandy cove at the southern end of Punta Tormentos, is a fringing reef that extends for 650 meters. The dive site is accessible from the shore, and navigating 40 degrees after reaching the end of the reef will lead divers to the nearby No-name reef. This site is known for its diverse marine life, including frequent sightings of nurse sharks, seahorses, turtles, and barracudas. However, divers should be aware that strong currents may affect visibility and photography opportunities.
Tortugas
Tortugas dive site features a reef that slopes from 15 to 40 meters. Divers can expect to see a variety of corals, sponges, and marine life including turtles, groupers, tarpons, nurse sharks, and king crabs. The site has good visibility and a low current, making it suitable for drift diving.
Tortugas Reef
Tortugas Reef is located at coordinates 20.575100, -87.104900 and is accessible via shore entry. This site is characterized by its shallow depths and clear visibility, making it suitable for both diving and snorkeling. The reef is known for its diverse marine life, including frequent sightings of turtles, spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, stingrays, moray eels, and a variety of reef fish. The underwater landscape is adorned with colorful corals and sponges, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the area.
Tres Cocos Canyons
Tres Cocos Canyons is located just outside the Tres Cocos cut and is suitable for beginner divers. The site features a mooring ball, and the current is typically mild, originating from the north. The area is rich in marine life, with common sightings of dolphins, turtles, and rays. Additionally, divers can expect to see black grouper, Nassau grouper, yellow snapper, and hogfish in the vicinity.
Tuffy Canyon
Tuffy Canyon, also referred to as Tuffy Rocks, is located near the Tackle Box dive site. This shallow reef is accessible by boat and is suitable for both novice divers and snorkelers. The site is known for its diverse marine life, where you can encounter various species including jacks, groupers, snappers, parrotfish, angelfish, barracuda, eels, spider crabs, lobsters, and nurse sharks.
Turneffe Atoll
Turneffe Atoll is the largest of the three atolls in Belize, characterized by its diverse marine life and stunning underwater landscapes. The site is accessible only by boat and offers opportunities to encounter a variety of Caribbean species, including nurse sharks, reef sharks, and the occasional eagle ray. Divers may also see turtles, stingrays, and a multitude of fish such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrotfish, and grouper. The atoll's unique ecosystem provides a rich diving experience for those exploring its waters.
Turtle Crossing
Turtle Crossing is located between West End and West Bay and features a coral channel that leads to a drop-off at 40 meters (120 feet). Divers can observe up to 30 sea turtles, primarily green and occasionally Hawksbill turtles, along with abundant marine life around sandy plateaus at 6 and 13 meters (20 and 45 feet).
Turtle Crossing Deep
Turtle Crossing Deep is situated between West End and West Bay, featuring coral channels that descend to depths of approximately 120 feet. Divers can moor on the plateaus, which range from 20 to 40 feet, where they will encounter diverse coral structures. This site is particularly noted for its significant population of sea turtles, with sightings of up to 30 individuals during a single dive. Additionally, large sponges are prevalent throughout the area, contributing to the site's rich marine environment.
Villa Blanca Wall
Villa Blanca Wall is a wall dive accessible by shore, with depths ranging from 10 to 30 meters. The site features a low profile reef and a steep slope, appropriate for experienced divers due to potential strong currents near the cruise ship dock. Divers should be aware of the risk posed by cruise ship suction that can lead to dangerous situations.
Villablanca Wall
Villablanca Wall is a steeply sloping wall dive accessible from shore, although this entry method is not recommended due to the 15-minute swim required to reach the dive site. The area experiences significant currents, leading to a low-profile reef structure. Divers can observe a variety of marine life, including numerous barrel sponges, basket sponges, and gorgonian corals, all of which are in good condition.
West Bay Beach Entry
Snorkel from shore to the second largest barrier reef in the world. In places the reef starts a few metres from shore. Eagle rays are a common sight farther out in areas with a sandy bottom. Parrot fish, angel fish, butterfly fish, large schools of blue tang fish, squid, octopus, eels and many more are seen regularly.
West End
West End offers a sheltered diving experience, particularly beneficial when winds and waves are coming from the southeast. The site features a gently sloping wall adorned with vibrant soft corals, making it accessible for divers of all skill levels. Typically, divers can expect to encounter the standard marine life found in Utila, with a higher likelihood of spotting nurse sharks and green morays. Occasional sightings of turtles may also occur. The dive generally presents little to no current, enhancing the ease of exploration.
West End Wall
West End Wall is a wall dive located in Roatan, with depths ranging from 6 to 27 meters (20 to 90 feet). Expect to see marine life such as sea turtles, lobsters, moray eels, barracudas, and various species of jacks and snappers. The site is suitable for intermediate divers and offers visibility of up to 24 meters (80 feet).
White Slave
White Slave is a dive site featuring a reef structure with a depth ranging from 15 to 30 meters. Divers can expect to see a variety of marine life including reef fish, corals, and potentially larger species. This site is accessible via boat entry.
Willy’s Hole
Willy's Hole is situated in Turtle Harbor, just beyond the maze. This dive site features a cavern or cave that reaches depths of approximately 24 meters. While the dive is generally not considered difficult, deeper areas are accessible for those with the appropriate training. The top of the reef is home to a variety of reef fish, and divers may encounter lionfish within Willy's Hole. It is important to adhere to your training and experience levels while exploring this site.
Yucab
Yucab Reef is suitable for intermediate divers, with depths ranging from 13 to 18 meters. The site displays healthy coral due to strong currents, and divers can expect to see marine life such as moray eels, grouper, snapper, stingrays, turtles, and nurse sharks. The dive typically starts with a patch of turtle grass at the entry point.
Yucab Reef
Yucab Reef is a shallow dive site known for its vibrant marine life and healthy coral formations. The reef is characterized by a variety of hard coral species and large barrel sponges. Divers can expect to encounter a range of wildlife, including spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and the endemic Splendid toadfish, which is unique to Cozumel. Due to the typically strong currents, this site is often experienced as a drift dive. The entry point is from the shore.