Diving the Pacific Coast of Mexico is an authentic dive adventure away from the usual crowds. Work your way down this wild west coast to discover what's on offer. Among the gems: intimate dive spots and a scattering of epic offshore islands.
From tiny to humongous, your log book will brim with critters after diving the Pacific Coast of Mexico. Blow bubbles with humpback whales, whale sharks, white tips, mantas, hammerheads and dolphins. Grunts, puffer fish and turtles hang out by bright sponge; seahorses and octopus hide in walls and wrecks.
Beginners can swim 10 minutes off shore and see turtles, while experienced divers weave in and out of volcanic arches, spires, tunnels and caves. On the Pacific Coast of Mexico divers of any level can come face-to-face with Great White Sharks.
The side of Mexico bordered by the Pacific has cooler waters than the Caribbean, offering a different kind of beauty. To decide when to dive the Pacific Coast of Mexico consider two factors: marine life and water conditions.
Pelagic species are most easily seen at offshore islands from November to May but June to October feature the warmest water temps (77-82°F/25-28°C) and visibility can reach 60m. The only time for shark diving with the Great Whites of Guadalupe is August-October and if you plan to extend your trip to Socorro Island, the liveaboard season is November-May.
Average water temps of 66-72°F (19-22°C) mean most scuba divers wear at least a 3mm wetsuit when diving the Pacific Coast of Mexico. Warm winds, good food and friendly locals warm your skin and spirit.
Options for diving the Pacific Coast of Mexico are extensive, with the coastline stretching from the border of California to the edge of Guatemala. Visitors from the US fly to Mexico City's huge international airport (MEX) for diving on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. You can fly non-stop from cities like Newark (5h 30m) and Miami (3h 35m).
International visitors fly to Los Angeles International (LAX) in the US (11h from London, 15h from Singapore). Mexico City and LAX both offer connecting flights to a number of airports along the Pacific Coast. Among them: Acapulco, Alvarez, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán.
For an extended adventure fly into Guadalajara International Airport (3h from LAX) then hire a car to explore Mexico's amazing Pacific coast on four wheels. Head south towards Oaxaca along sand-dusted mountain roads, stopping in hilltop towns for food and magical views. Renting a car is great for quick exploration - leaving more time for diving.
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