Explore the wonders of the underwater world in Playa del Carmen, where beautiful waters and vibrant marine life await. From thrilling drift dives along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef to serene explorations, this coastal gem offers an unforgettable diving experience. Join us as we dive into the depths of Playa del Carmen and discover its enchanting underwater landscapes.
Los Arcos Reef
Located off the coast of Playa del Carmen, Mexico, Arcos Reef—“The Arches”—boasts swim‑throughs carved by ancient coral. A 25‑minute boat ride from Xico Dive Center, it reaches 105 ft/32 m and teems with tropical fish and eagle rays. Glide through the arches for an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves.
Cerebros Reef
Known as “Brains Reef” for its coral‑head formations, this shallow 30 ft/9 m site (25 min from Xico) dazzles with tropical fish and eagle rays. Every dive reveals another layer of this underwater paradise.
Punta Venado
“Deer Point” lies 25 min south by boat. A flat reef to 82 ft/25 m, it features soft & hard corals and marine life—from morays to eagle rays—making a thrilling drift dive for intermediate to advanced divers.
Tortugas Reef
“Turtle Reef,” 20 min away, spans to 60 ft/18 m with calm waters ideal for all levels. Coral gardens, sponges, and frequent turtle sightings make it perfect for training, fun dives, and photography.
Sabalos Reef
A 15‑minute ride brings you to this 50 ft/14 m site named for tarpon schools (“sabalos”). Lobsters, crabs, and barracudas lurk among impressive coral structures—ideal for intermediate divers seeking drift‑and‑reef adventure.
Barracuda Reef
Fifteen minutes out, this 50 ft/14 m site draws schools of barracudas, morays, stingrays, and sharks amid dramatic coral and sponge gardens. A must‑dive for thrill‑seekers.
Pared Verde Reef
“Green Wall” is a 90 ft/28 m wall dive for experienced divers. Towering coral formations and lush marine life make it a photographer’s paradise, just 15 min away.
Jardines Reef
Just a 5‑minute hop delivers you to “The Gardens,” a 35 ft/11 m site with gentle currents, vibrant coral formations, and sea turtles—perfect for all diver levels.
Shangri-La Reef
A tranquil 5‑minute ride brings you to this 30 ft/9 m shallow site. Calm waters, colourful corals, and sea turtles create a relaxing dive for photographers and beginners alike.
Moc Che Shallow
A shallow 32 ft/10 m oasis 5 min away, teeming with colourful corals, fish, and turtles. Perfect for divers of all levels looking for a captivating under‑the‑surface adventure.
Moc Che Deep
A 90 ft/28 m wall dive for advanced divers, 10 min from shore. Marvel at intricate coral formations, schools of exotic fish, and the splendour of biodiversity along the reef wall.
Mama Viña Wreck
Sank in 1995 near Xcaret, this 85 ft/26 m wreck is now an artificial reef alive with fish and moray eels. A 20‑minute boat ride for experienced divers seeking a unique excursion.
Cueva Pargo
“Snapper Cave,” 5 min away at 40 ft/12 m, dazzles with snapper schools, rays, turtles, and the local legend of the Virgen del Caracol statue protecting divers.
Chun Zumbul Shallow
A 32 ft/10 m site just 5 min away, brimming with corals, tropical fish, and turtles. Ideal for all levels, it offers serene dives with breathtaking underwater flora and fauna.
Chun Zumbul Deep
An 80 ft/25 m wall dive 5 min away for experienced divers. Descend into a world of sharks, manta rays, and the ocean’s hidden wonders for the ultimate deep‑sea adventure.