Diving in Playa del Carmen: Everything You Need to Know before You Go!

Picture yourself about an hour’s drive south from the bustling tourist hub of Cancun, right along the shimmering coastline of the Caribbean Sea. It’s a place where white sandy beaches meet turquoise waters, and the rhythm of life slows to a laid-back, beach-town pace. But Playa del Carmen is not just about soaking up the sun—it’s the gateway to some of the best diving in the Riviera Maya! The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, lies just offshore, offering divers an underwater playground brimming with vibrant coral formations and marine life. And let’s not forget the cenotes—these natural sinkholes are like portals to another world, providing unique freshwater diving experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Playa del Carmen’s central location on the Riviera Maya makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s rich cultural heritage, tantalizing cuisine, and, of course, its breathtaking underwater wonders.

How to get to Playa del Carmen

Playa del carmen is situated on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, approximately 68 kilometers (42 miles) south of Cancun. Most visits start by flying into Cancun International Airport (CUN), the closest major airport, which is serviced by numerous international airlines. From there, you have a few options.

Car Rental

If you’re looking for convenience, consider renting a car, you will have the most flexibility for exploring the region at your own pace. There are kiosks in every airport terminal offering all the usual choices like Hertz and Avis. But your’s truly will only recommend one company which has not disappointed to date: Europcar Rental. Their booking and pick up is easy and they often have discounts and deals. The drive south is approximately 45 minutes along the Carretera Federal aka Highway 307 and you’ll be in the Centro of Playa del Carmen.

Private shuttles

Another option to consider is booking a private shuttle through companies like USA Transfers or Cancun Airport Transportation or ETransfers. These services range from $50-$140 and offer door-to-door rides directly to your hotel, making the transition from air to land seamless. This is a great option if you are traveling in a group.

Bus

For a more budget-friendly option, hop on an ADO bus which would cost about $15. These comfortable, air-conditioned buses depart regularly from the airport and can be booked in advance at ADO’s website. The best option in my opinion as you will get dropped of right in the heart of town!

Taxi & Collectivos

Finally, for those who crave a bit of adventure and local flavor, a taxi or a shared ride might be the way to go but expect having to haggle for prices! The average taxistas will try to gouge tourists, especially at night. You can book directly through companies like Taxi Cancun that provide a relatively reliable service and quick rides to Playa del Carmen.

Whichever route you choose, the promise of diving in Playa del Carmen’s crystal-clear waters, and discovering hidden cenotes will make the journey worth every mile.

What is the diving like in Playa del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen beckons explorers from around the globe with a diverse array of diving opportunities. With every season comes a new adventure. So let’s dive into the specifics.

If you are staying in Centro, Playa del Carmen, you will be just a few minutes from the second largest barrier reef in the world as well as the longest dive-able underground river so it never gets boring! Playa boasts about 20 ocean dive sites perfect for both beginners and advanced divers. These sites are between 5-20 minutes by boat from Coco Beach in Centro (downtown) that offer great drift diving all year round.

But the magic doesn’t stop there. A short 20-minute drive will lead you to awesome cenotes, such as Chac Mool and Garden of Eden, where you can dive into the ancient, awe-inspiring underwater network of caverns and caves. And if you’re up for a bit more of a journey, within a 45-minute drive or boat ride, you can access all the best dive sites in neighbouring towns like Puerto Morelos, Cozumel, Puerto Aventuras, and Tulum. Each location offers its own unique underwater landscapes, from the bustling marine life of Cozumel’s reefs to the serene and otherworldly beauty of Tulum’s cenotes.

Let’s take a deeper dive into both types of diving that Playa has to offer. Jump to cenote Diving or Ocean Diving

Seasons for Diving in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen has two main season that we can consider the winter and the summer seasons. The main aspects that influence the weather here year round are the winds and rains. The easterly trade winds dominate this region year round, which bring in the cool breeze from the west can vary in force throughout the seasons. They can be much stronger in certain months and amplified during hurricane season. However, during the winter months, the northerly winds—known locally as “nortes”—can whip up the sea, creating choppy surface conditions and stronger currents. Some of the seasons overlap but it is good to have an idea of what to expect when planning your trip.

The Winter Seasosn:nov-april usually marks the end of Hurricane season. The rains and winds tend to stop, a nice cool breeze will dominate and bring in cooler waters and temperatures. Generaly 25-28 Cenlcius in farenhiet. Nortes winds can wip up the cea. March tends to be a very windy month. These cooler winds and dropping temperatures bring in nutrients from the deep that attract larger pelagic creatures which is great for divers.

Summer Season : May-October This season tends to get really hot. From May-September the humidity is 100% and temperatures are very high. This season also marks the end of the windy season so it is very hot! However with higher temperatures in the water and lower winds, the diving conditions in the ocean and cenotes are excellent. This is also the start of rainy season but it does not intensify until the August- November. At the tail end of the summer we have the Hurricane season.

Windy Season (November to April)

The windy season, from November to April coincides with the winter season. Temperatures drop to a comfortable cool while the region is dominated by the easterly trade winds. These winds can make the sea choppy, affecting surface conditions and potentially causing strong underwater currents, making diving more strenuous in the ocean. However, the cooler winter water and consistent breeze brings in nutrient rich waters that attract a lot of marine life in the ocean. On the other hand, cenotes are not affected by the winds and will allow divers another option if the port is closed.

Hurricane Season (September to November)

Hurricane season in Playa del Carmen spans from September to November. During this period, the Caribbean is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, which can drastically affect sea conditions as well as the cenotes. The ocean can become turbulent, with strong currents and reduced visibility, making diving more challenging and sometimes unsafe. Runoff water will flood the cenotes, making entries more dangerous and reducing visibility in some cases. However, each year is different, some with more others with less storms. Any year, though, you can find calm days with warm waters and fewer crowds.

Rainy Season (June to October)

Playa del Carmen’s rainy season peaks from June to October. The region experiences intense but usually short-lived downpours and thunderstorms which can temporarily reduce visibility and affect sea conditions. The rain brings a lush, verdant landscape, and the underwater world remains vibrant. Diving during this season can be a bit of a gamble, but it often results in quieter dive sites and the chance to see different marine life attracted by the nutrient-rich waters.

Hot Season (May to September)

The hot season runs from May to September, with air and sea temperatures reaching their peak. The warm waters make for comfortable dives, but the heat can be intense, requiring divers to stay well-hydrated and protected from the sun. Visibility is typically good, and the marine life is active, making for enjoyable dives, though the heat can be exhausting after a full day in the sun.

Ocean Diving in Playa del Carmen

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef offers thrilling local dive sites are as varied as they are spectacular, catering to divers of all skill levels. Depths range from shallow 30-foot reefs like Jardinas and Moc Che Shallow (perfect for beginners) to deeper sites on the Cantil that plunge down to 100+ feet. The water temperature here is a diver’s dream—warm year-round, typically hovering between 78°F (26°C) in the winter to a balmy 90°F (30°C) in the summer. Visibility is consistently excellent, ranging between 50ft and often exceeding 100 feet!

The diving style here is predominantly drift diving year round, where the gentle to moderate currents carry you along the reef, allowing for a relaxed and immersive experience.

Seasons for Ocean Diving in Playa

Hurricane Season (June to November)

Hurricane season in Playa del Carmen spans from June to November. During this period, the Caribbean is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, which can drastically affect sea conditions. The ocean can become turbulent, with strong currents and reduced visibility, making diving more challenging and sometimes unsafe. However, each year is different, some with more others with less storms. Any year, though, you can find calm days with warm waters and fewer crowds.

Bull Shark Season (November to March)

Bull shark season is one of the most exhilarating times to dive in Playa del Carmen. From November to March, these magnificent creatures migrate to the coastal waters, offering a unique opportunity for close encounters. The water temperature is cooler, and visibility is generally good, making it ideal for observing these apex predators in their natural habitat. It’s a thrilling experience for seasoned divers looking for an adrenaline rush.

Windy Season (March to May)

The windy season, from March to May, is dominated by the easterly trade winds. These winds can make the sea choppy, affecting surface conditions and potentially causing strong underwater currents. While the winds provide a refreshing break from the heat, they can make diving more strenuous. However, the consistent breeze also helps to keep the water clear, offering decent visibility on most days.

Rainy Season (June to October)

Playa del Carmen’s rainy season peaks from June to October. The region experiences intense but usually short-lived downpours, which can temporarily reduce visibility and affect sea conditions. The rain brings a lush, verdant landscape, and the underwater world remains vibrant. Diving during this season can be a bit of a gamble, but it often results in quieter dive sites and the chance to see different marine life attracted by the nutrient-rich waters.

Hot Season (May to September)

The hot season runs from May to September, with air and sea temperatures reaching their peak. The warm waters make for comfortable dives, but the heat can be intense, requiring divers to stay well-hydrated and protected from the sun. Visibility is typically good, and the marine life is active, making for enjoyable dives, though the heat can be exhausting after a full day in the sun.

Best Months to Dive in Playa del Carmen

November and February are considered the best months for diving in Playa del Carmen due to the favourable conditions. In November, the hurricane season is ending, leading to calmer seas and improved visibility. The waters are starting to cool, and divers can experience great visibility and calm waters. February offers stable weather, post the peak of the nortes, with clear skies, moderate temperatures, and excellent underwater visibility. Both months provide a perfect balance between the excitement of bull shark season and the ideal sea conditions, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable diving experience.

Winter: December – February is Crisp and Clear

Winter in Playa del Carmen, offers some of the clearest waters you’ll ever see. The air is cooler, the humidity drops, and the visibility underwater is pristine. The region does get affected by the “nortes” aka northerly winds which can create stronger currents. Although the conditions may be more difficult, the winter months do not disappoint divers hoping for larger encounters. The chances to encounter beautiful eagle rays is heightened during the winter, as well as loggerhead turtles and other species of sharks and rays. It It’s also bull shark season (November-March), where you can get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. However, it is also peak tourist season, so expect the dive sites to be a bit more crowded and prices slightly higher.

Spring: March – May is the Wild Card

The spring season can be a mixed bag in Playa. We often see beautiful days where the sun kisses the cerulean hues of a calm and inviting ocean. But as the northerly winds retreat, the easterly winds prevail once again, bringing in a steady ocean breeze. Ocean diving may be interrupted by stronger winds but with the warming weather, expect to be back in the water in no time.

The windy season in Playa del Carmen typically occurs from November to March. During these months, the region experiences the “norte” winds, which are cold fronts blowing in from the north. These winds can affect sea conditions, making the waters choppier and less ideal for diving. The port authorities will cancel boat activities if the conditions are too rough but luckily cenote diving remains largely unaffected by the winds, providing a fantastic alternative for divers during this period.

Summer: June – August is Hot & Varied

The summers in Playa are always hot and humid with temperatures reaching 100 degrees. However the weather can vary from year to year. The summer of 2023 was very hot and dry with little rainfall. The ocean temperature rose to 90 degrees and we experienced a coral bleaching event. It is also the beginning for hurricane season and with the easterly winds still dominating it is possible to have dive days canceled due to strong wind. On the bright side there are fewer tourists around. Just keep an eye on the weather forecasts and have a flexible schedule.

Fall: September – November is Rainy Season

The temperatures drop and the wind tends to die down during these months. However it is possible to have rainy days on the forecast for multiple days in a row. If this doesn’t bother you, fall may be one of the best times to dive in Playa as there are very few tourists and the prices are lowest. However this is still hurricane season so stay informed and watch the weather reports.

High Tourist Season vs. Low Season

High tourist season peaks in winter and spring (December to April), bringing more divers and higher prices. The low season, from May to November, sees fewer tourists and more competitive rates, making it an attractive option if you’re looking to avoid the crowds.

When is the Best time to go Ocean Diving in Playa del Carmen?

The best months, in this diver’s humble opinion, are May through September. This is definitely the hottest time to be in Playa del Carmen so prepare to sweat when you are not in the water. But with little rain and wind and warm water temperatures, this is the ideal time of year to splash into the reef and explore some of the local dive sites.

However, in the winter months when the weather can be more rough, the currents bring in nutrient rich water which are great for feeding eagle rays and other larger pelagics. This is the time of year when we can really spot a lot of eagle rays in the area, which makes diving in the rougher currents worth it. November – March is also the bull shark season which is an amazing activity for advanced divers.

February: The Sweet Spot

So, why is February the best overall month for diving in Playa del Carmen? Here’s the scoop. The winter chill is receding, but the clarity of the water remains impeccable. You dodge the high-season holiday rush, but still get to enjoy the perks of the cooler weather and fewer crowds. Plus, the bull sharks are still around, giving you that adrenaline-pumping dive experience without the summer’s intense heat.

In February, Playa del Carmen offers a perfect blend of favorable diving conditions, manageable tourist numbers, and comfortable weather. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant coral reefs or the otherworldly cenotes, this is the month where everything aligns. Dive in, explore, and let the underwater world of Playa del Carmen captivate you.

Requirements for Ocean Diving

Divers with an Advanced certification will be able to visit all of the dive sites in Playa del Carmen. Open Water divers will have a wide variety of dive sites available to them. However, the will have to do check out dives or complete the advanced course to visit certain dive sites. Contact your dive shop to discuss the possibilities.

Dive Sites in Playa del Carmen

There are only about 15 different dive sites on the house reef in Playa del Carmen. Most of them are between a 5 minute to 20 minute boat ride away. Year round, this region has mild to moderate currents so drift diving is the modus operandi for all dive boats. Those currents bring in lots of nutrients and keep the reef full of life.

The topography is gently sloping, with small banks and mini walls that shelter animals big and small from the currents. The hard coral cover is not so dense, with lots of gorgonians, sponges and other soft coral covering most of the reef. Large sandy patches connect most of the dive sites.

Moc-Che :

This dive site has a deep and shallow section. This is the most northern dive site on the house reef of Playa del Carmen. Moc-che Depth: average depth 25m/82ft. Sometimes there can be a strong current and diver’s are recommended to dive on Nitrox to be able to extend their bottom time.

Diver Experience Level: Advanced for the deep section. For a calmer dive, you can also dive in Moc-Che Shallow, a beautiful shallow dive at 12.5 meters / 40 feet suitable for open water divers.

Dive Highlights: Divers will encounter an impressive 6m/20ft wall which shelters a lot of marine life in the deeper dive. In both shallow and deep, morays lurk in the hanging crevices, while turtles, marlins and barracudas are abundant as well.

Cueva de Pargo

Cueva de Pargo is known for its underwater caverns and diverse marine life. Depth: can vary depending on the specific dive spot within the site, but typically ranges from 30 to 80 feet (10 to 24 meters).

Diver Experience Level: It is appropriate for beginners – intermediate divers.

Dive Highlights: The name “Cueva de Pargo” translates to “Snapper Cave,” indicating the presence of caves and overhangs where snappers and other marine life seek shelter. There is also a small sunken statue of a shell in the sandy patch that connects the shallow and deeper sections of the site.

Chun Zumbu

Located north of the Marina (15 minutes by boat). Depth: 10m /35 ft deep reef at which you can observe Caribbean fish and admire beautiful coral formations.

Diver Experience Level: Beginner

Dive Highlights: An easy dive with overhangs and chances to see sting rays smaller creatures.

Sahangri-la

This dive site is also about 5 minutes from shore. Depth: 10m /35ft deep with a few rock ledges descending to 14m/45ft

Diver Experience Level: Beginner

Dive Highlights: This is on of the most shallow dive sites and is said to have the most coral coverage in the area. Divers will see large gorgonians and lettuce coral as well as big schools of snappers and grunts.  

Jardines

Sabalos

Barracuda

Tortugas

Mama Vina

Punta Venado

Punta Tiburon

Intrepid divers can also book trips to dive in the stunning marine parks of Cozumel, Puerto Morelos and Cancun. Your dive guide will determine which trips are suitable for your certification and experience level. For a more detailed guide on the best spots and conditions for ocean diving in and around Playa del Carmen, check out this comprehensive Ocean Diving Guide.

CENOTE

Cenote Diving in Playa del Carmen

Cenotes are natural sinkholes formed thousands of years ago when limestone bedrock collapsed to reveal an underground river and intricate network of tunnels. These crystal-clear freshwater pools are not just geological wonders but also hold deep cultural significance for the ancient Maya, who considered them sacred portals to the underworld. When diving in cenotes, you can experience both cavern and cave diving.

Cavern diving allows you to stay within sight of natural light and open water, making it accessible for most certified divers. In contrast, cave diving requires specialized training as it takes you deeper into the dark, intricate passageways far from any natural light. Both types offer unique experiences, with stunning rock formations, eerie stillness, and the play of light creating an otherworldly ambiance.

For beginners, cenotes like Dos Ojos beckon with their shallow depths and stunning clarity, revealing underwater stalactites and stalagmites that date back millennia. This cenote system is named for its two interconnected sinkholes, offering a glimpse into the mystical underworld that the ancient Maya believed held spiritual significance. Advanced divers can explore the depths of The Pit, plunging over 100 feet into a cavernous abyss where haloclines and penetrating light beams create mesmerizing visual distortions between salt and fresh water layers.

Another exhilarating choice is Cenote Angelita, where a dramatic cloud of hydrogen sulfide shrouds a submerged tree, creating an ethereal sight at around 100 feet deep. Each cenote in Playa del Carmen tells a unique geological story, making every dive a journey through both time and natural wonder.

Here is an in depth guide to Cenote Diving in Playa del Carmen.

Ocean Diving in Playa del Carmen

When you say you want to go reef diving in Playa del Carmen, you have plenty of options. You will be diving on the second largest barrier reef in the world know as The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, aka the Great Mayan Reef. It extends over 600 miles (965 kilometers) along the coasts of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras. It runs parallel to the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula and is situated in the Caribbean Sea. Our little town of Playa del Carmen is located just minutes from the house reefs, with 15 dive sites to choose from. Also it is located close enough to dive in Cozumel, Puerto Morelos and Cancun!

What are the seasonal dive conditions?

When considering the best time for diving in Playa del Carmen, understanding the seasonal nuances can enhance your underwater experience. The ideal window typically spans from November to May, avoiding the region’s rainy season and hurricane risks. During this period, temperatures are moderate, ranging from the comfortable lows of the high 70s Fahrenheit in winter to the inviting mid-80s in summer. However, being located on the eastern coast, Playa is subjected to the easterly trade winds which can often affect diving conditions. During the winter months between November-March, the water temperature drops to 26-27C/68-79F and stronger wind and currents which could cause the port authority to cancel boat activities for the day. In these cases, dive shops will offer alternative cenote diving options to those who still wish to get in the water. Most divers are ok with a long 3mm wetsuit. You can see bull sharks and more eagle rays,

When is the best time to dive in Playa?

Best Month tends to be February.

The cenotes are perfect all year round, even if it rainy season, you can still enjoy diving in the cavers as most of them are not much affected by the rainwater. Its a great activity to do in case of rain!

Sea an article on the seasons of diving in Playa del Carmen.

(The season are complicated and it depends on the diver to decide what they like. I will be honest about the pros and cons.

pro is tbetter temperature in winter

Visibility peaks during these months, often exceeding 100 feet, revealing the full splendor of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and its diverse inhabitants. In the winter months, expect encounters with bull sharks making their seasonal visit, alongside graceful sea turtles. Summer brings warmer waters and an influx of vibrant tropical fish, including colorful angelfish and parrotfish, creating a bustling marine panorama. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of spotting large pelagics or immersing yourself in the kaleidoscopic world of reef fish, Playa del Carmen promises unforgettable diving adventures year-round.

On average the diving conditions are quite good, allowing for great diving year round. The average water temperature lingers at around 27C/79F and visibility at about 25m/75ft. However, being located on the eastern coast, Playa is subjected to the easterly trade winds which can often affect diving conditions. In Playa del Carmen it is the customary to do “drift diving”, where the guide will send up a surface marker and the boat captain will follow the group until pick up. This is because we can experience a current all year round. During the winter months between November-March, the water temperature drops to 26-27C/68-79F and stronger wind and currents which could cause the port authority to cancel boat activities for the day. In these cases, dive shops will offer alternative cenote diving options to those who still wish to get in the water. Most divers are ok with a long 3mm wetsuit.

The summer months bring lots of heat and water temperatures go up to 29C/89F. With less wind, the currents can be a little calmer, water visibility great and divers don’t even need to wear a wetsuit. However, due to the rising water temperatures, it is often possible to see coral bleaching, especially in late summer. It is possible to see tropical thunderstorms during the summer days that are isolated and are brief.

The rainy season is between October-December, with water temperatures dropping off to 26-27C from their summer peaks. It can be quite lovely diving during this season but bring something to keep you warm on the boat as sometimes you will not see the sun between dives.

When is the Best Time to Go Diving in Playa del Carmen?

Ah, Playa del Carmen—where the ocean whispers secrets of the deep reefs and cenotes, those mystical underground rivers, glow like hidden treasures. But when is the prime time to dive into these aquatic wonders? Let’s break it down.

Winter Weather: Crisp and Clear

Winter in Playa del Carmen, stretching from December to February, offers some of the clearest waters you’ll ever see. The air is cooler, the humidity drops, and the visibility underwater is pristine. It’s also bull shark season, where you can get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. However, it’s peak tourist season, so expect the dive sites to be a bit more crowded and prices slightly higher.

Windy Season: The Wild Card

The windy season in Playa del Carmen typically occurs from November to March. During these months, the region experiences the “norte” winds, which are cold fronts blowing in from the north. These winds can affect sea conditions, making the waters choppier and less ideal for diving. The port authorities will cancel boat activities if the conditions are too rough but luckily cenote diving remains largely unaffected by the winds, providing a fantastic alternative for divers during this period.

Hurricane Season: A Mixed Bag

Hurricane season runs from June to November. While it’s not all stormy skies and choppy waters, the unpredictability of the weather can make planning a dive trip a bit of a gamble. On the bright side, the water is warmer, and there are fewer tourists around. Just keep an eye on the weather forecasts and have a flexible schedule.

Summer Sunlight: Cenote Magic

Summer, from June to August, is when the cenotes truly come alive. The high sun filters through the jungle canopy, piercing the cenotes’ waters with ethereal beams of light. It’s a photographer’s dream. However, the ocean can be a bit rougher due to stronger winds, and the heat is intense—like, melt-your-flip-flops intense.

High Tourist Season vs. Low Season

High tourist season peaks in winter and spring (December to April), bringing more divers and higher prices. The low season, from May to November, sees fewer tourists and more competitive rates, making it an attractive option if you’re looking to avoid the crowds.

Hot Season vs. Cooler Season

The hot season spans from May to September. The ocean is warm, almost like a giant, salty bathtub. It’s perfect for those who enjoy longer dives without the chill. The cooler season, from October to April, brings refreshing breezes and more comfortable air temperatures, making surface intervals much more pleasant.

February: The Sweet Spot

So, why is February the best overall month for diving in Playa del Carmen? Here’s the scoop. The winter chill is receding, but the clarity of the water remains impeccable. You dodge the high-season holiday rush, but still get to enjoy the perks of the cooler weather and fewer crowds. Plus, the bull sharks are still around, giving you that adrenaline-pumping dive experience without the summer’s intense heat.

In February, Playa del Carmen offers a perfect blend of favorable diving conditions, manageable tourist numbers, and comfortable weather. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant coral reefs or the otherworldly cenotes, this is the month where everything aligns. Dive in, explore, and let the underwater world of Playa del Carmen captivate you.

When is the Best time to go Ocean Diving in Playa del Carmen?

The best months, in this diver’s humble opinion, are May through September. This is definitely the hottest time to be in Playa del Carmen so prepare to sweat when you are not in the water. But with little rain and wind and warm water temperatures, this is the ideal time of year to splash into the reef and explore some of the local dive sites.

However, in the winter months when the weather can be more rough, the currents bring in nutrient rich water which are great for feeding eagle rays and other larger pelagics. This is the time of year when we can really spot a lot of eagle rays in the area, which makes diving in the rougher currents worth it. November – March is also the bull shark season which is an amazing activity for advanced divers.

Requirements for Ocean Diving

Divers with an Advanced certification will be able to visit all of the dive sites in Playa del Carmen. Open Water divers will have a wide variety of dive sites available to them. However, the will have to do check out dives or complete the advanced course to visit certain dive sites. Contact your dive shop to discuss the possibilities.

Dive Sites in Playa del Carmen

There are only about 15 different dive sites on the house reef in Playa del Carmen. Most of them are between a 5 minute to 20 minute boat ride away. Year round, this region has mild to moderate currents so drift diving is the modus operandi for all dive boats. Those currents bring in lots of nutrients and keep the reef full of life.

The topography is gently sloping, with small banks and mini walls that shelter animals big and small from the currents. The hard coral cover is not so dense, with lots of gorgonians, sponges and other soft coral covering most of the reef. Large sandy patches connect most of the dive sites.

Moc-Che :

This dive site has a deep and shallow section. This is the most northern dive site on the house reef of Playa del Carmen. Moc-che Depth: average depth 25m/82ft. Sometimes there can be a strong current and diver’s are recommended to dive on Nitrox to be able to extend their bottom time.

Diver Experience Level: Advanced for the deep section. For a calmer dive, you can also dive in Moc-Che Shallow, a beautiful shallow dive at 12.5 meters / 40 feet suitable for open water divers.

Dive Highlights: Divers will encounter an impressive 6m/20ft wall which shelters a lot of marine life in the deeper dive. In both shallow and deep, morays lurk in the hanging crevices, while turtles, marlins and barracudas are abundant as well.

Cueva de Pargo

Cueva de Pargo is known for its underwater caverns and diverse marine life. Depth: can vary depending on the specific dive spot within the site, but typically ranges from 30 to 80 feet (10 to 24 meters).

Diver Experience Level: It is appropriate for beginners – intermediate divers.

Dive Highlights: The name “Cueva de Pargo” translates to “Snapper Cave,” indicating the presence of caves and overhangs where snappers and other marine life seek shelter. There is also a small sunken statue of a shell in the sandy patch that connects the shallow and deeper sections of the site.

Chun Zumbu

Located north of the Marina (15 minutes by boat). Depth: 10m /35 ft deep reef at which you can observe Caribbean fish and admire beautiful coral formations.

Diver Experience Level: Beginner

Dive Highlights: An easy dive with overhangs and chances to see sting rays smaller creatures.

Sahangri-la

This dive site is also about 5 minutes from shore. Depth: 10m /35ft deep with a few rock ledges descending to 14m/45ft

Diver Experience Level: Beginner

Dive Highlights: This is on of the most shallow dive sites and is said to have the most coral coverage in the area. Divers will see large gorgonians and lettuce coral as well as big schools of snappers and grunts.  

Jardines

Sabalos

Barracuda

Tortugas

Mama Vina

Punta Venado

Punta Tiburon

Boat Schedules

Most dive boats go out on an AM and PM schedule. Generally the morning dives leave between 8-9 am and head out to the more advanced dive sites. Such dive sites are the Mama Vina Shipwreck, Tortugas or Punta Venado with average depths of 20m and strong currents. A typical second dive for a morning boat would be Sabalos (one of my favorites!) which can still bring strong currents but has mini walls where we can see A LOT of life.

The PM boats leave between 12:30 and 1:30 and usually go to dive sites closer to Centro of Playa, with shallower maximum depths and gentler currents. One of the most beautiful dive sites, perfect for open water courses or beginner divers is Jardinas. Here you can see big schools of fish, turtles and many species of eels and rays.

Dive in Cozumel Marine Park from Playa del Carmen

You may have heard about the stunning beauty of the reef in Cozumel. Well, it is true my friends. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef hugs Cozumel’s coast and has given us some of the most stunning underwater scenery of the Caribbean! This is not a dive destination to be missed. But don’t fret, it is possible to dive these beautiful sites with speed and style from Playa del Carmen.

It is possible to book an express dive trip to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen that will have you diving on its reefs in 45 minutes. These express boats do a daily crossing, with fun crew, lunch and refreshments, it is a perfect dive excursion from Playa. (best dive sites)

There are only a handful of boats with the permits to do this crossing so booking your spots in advance is essential to avoid disappointment.

Dive Puerto Morelos Marine Park from Playa del Carmen

Most divers end up missing this hidden gem when they visit the Riviera Maya. This sleepy little port town however has one of the healthiest marine parks in the Mexican Caribbean. So it is essential that you do no miss it and it is rather easy to plan. Most dive shops, like yours’ truly, can organize a day trip for you. However most trips are planned with a private boat so it can get a bit pricey if diving alone.

(best dive sites in Puerto Morelos)

Cenote Diving – the underground river (best cenotes to dive)

(everything you need to know before you go cenote diving)

Cave Diving – the art of diving flooded caves