About Escalones
Escalones is a prominent dive site situated off the coast of Mahahual, Mexico, within the Costa Maya region. This area is a vital part of the Mesoamerican reef, recognized as the second largest barrier reef system globally, and is noted for its thriving coral formations and abundant marine biodiversity. The site is characterized by a distinctive terraced reef structure, forming natural steps or a wall-like descent. It features a platform approximately 15 meters wide at a depth of 13 meters, which then drops steeply at an 80-degree angle to depths reaching up to 40 meters. This geological formation includes various reef gullies or canyons, offering a dynamic underwater landscape for exploration. Divers frequently encounter a rich variety of tropical fish species that inhabit the healthy coral colonies. Notable marine life sightings include lobsters and stingrays, with a high likelihood of observing three distinct types of Caribbean turtles: hawksbill, green, and loggerhead. The clear waters and thriving ecosystem make for engaging encounters. Considered suitable for Open Water certified divers and above, Escalones provides generally calm conditions with mild to no currents, consistent visibility ranging from 20 to 30 meters, and warm water temperatures between 25°C and 30°C. These favorable conditions contribute to a relaxed diving experience, making it an ideal location for both fun dives and specialized training like deep or multilevel diving.
Highlights
Natural terraced reef formationWall-like descent to 40 metersHealthy coral coloniesCaribbean turtles (hawksbill, green, loggerhead)Lobster sightingsStingray encountersReef gullies and canyons
Best Season
Diving at Escalones is favorable year-round due to Mahahual's consistently warm water temperatures, minimal currents, and excellent visibility. The tropical climate ensures comfortable conditions throughout the year.
Dive site facts: Escalones
- Depth
- 12–40 m
- Current
- Mild
- Entry
- Shore / dayboat
- Level
- Intermediate
- Dive type
- Terraced reef, Reef
- Region / port
- Mexico
- Coordinates
- 18.7291° N, 87.6896° W
Conditions & Currents
The waters surrounding Escalones in Mahahual are typically calm, with currents ranging from mild to non-existent, creating relaxed and safe diving conditions. Visibility is consistently good, often between 20 and 30 meters, ensuring clear views of the reef. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, ranging from 25°C to 30°C. Divers can expect straightforward boat entries and exits, usually without significant surge, making it accessible for a wide range of certification levels. These stable conditions mean that specialized techniques like negative entries or reef hooks are generally not required, allowing for a comfortable and enjoyable dive focusing on the underwater environment rather than challenging conditions.
Why dive Escalones from a liveaboard?
Escalones is one of Mexico's signature dive sites. A liveaboard sleeps you on the water and puts you in the water for three to four guided dives per day, including dawn and night dives that day-boat operators rarely offer. You skip the daily commute back to port and reach quieter, less-crowded sites in the same region on a single trip.
Below are the liveaboards that include Escalones on their Mexico itineraries.
Liveaboards diving Escalones
These liveaboards may visit Escalones on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.
Nautilus Explorer
Mexico
25 guests44.8 m
$230/day
Valentina
Mexico
20 guests38.1 m
$430/day
Rocio del Mar
Mexico
20 guests33.5 m
$392/day
Nautilus Under Sea
Mexico
19 guests32 m
$261/day
Nautilus Belle Amie
Mexico
32 guests44.8 m
$323/day
Quino del Mar
Mexico
20 guests36 m
$377/day
Nautilus Gallant Lady
Mexico
12 guests35.36 m
$332/day
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© Esri — Maxar, Earthstar, GIS
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- Depth
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© Esri — Maxar, Earthstar, GIS
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- Depth
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© Esri — Maxar, Earthstar, GIS
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© Esri — Maxar, Earthstar, GIS
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- Intermediate
- Current
- Mild
- Access
- Liveaboard only
- Depth
- 9–18 m
- Theme
- Reef / Drift