Jardines Reef:
The name (which means “garden”) refers to the lush underwater vegetation. Look for sponges, hard coral, fan corals, sea whips, and the myriad of fishes and
moray eels that swim among the vegetation.
Barracuda:
This reef reaches out in finger-like extensions with holes and ledges to explore, as well as a shallow cave at the northern end, all patrolled by large
numbers of barracuda.
Tortuga Reef:
Named for the numerous sea turtles found here, this drift dive reef also features king crabs, angelfish, groupers, tarpons, and nurse sharks.
Cerebros:
Brain corals gave this site its name, but it is also notable for swim-through arches. Look for lobsters, king crabs, shrimp, moray eels, scorpionfish, and
other reef fish. Visibility can be poor here when the ocean is rough.
Los Arcos:
Named for a pair of dramatic arches, this wall section is covered in corals, sponges, and sea fans. Look for turtles and stingrays, and in colder
temperatures, bull sharks.
Mama Viña:
This sunken shrimp boat with its picturesque propeller is penetrable by experienced divers. Check out the lower decks and inside rooms, and pay a visit to
the barracuda cruising around its mast. Be cautious of current.
Punta Venada:
This multi-level dive features nurse sharks, bull sharks, stingrays, turtles, schooling tarpon, and the occasional whale shark or manta ray.
Sabalos Reef:
The name translates to “tarpon,” and schools of tarpon can sometimes be seen here. Look for a wide array of sea stars in sandy areas, and reef fish among
the hard and soft corals.
Ciun-Zumbul:
Bottoming out at 12 metres/40 feet, this shallow dive allows for lengthy bottom time to enjoy the garden-like vegetation with coral overhangs and a number
of coral caverns. Look for flounders, lemon rays, moray eels, shells and arrow crabs.
Cenotes:
These freshwater-filled caverns are marvels of nature, their clear water pierced by dramatic shafts of sunlight on the stalactites and stalagmites. The
Mayan Riviera boasts more than 3,000 cenotes, including the cave systems of Ox Bel Ha and Nohoch Nah Chich.