Dive Site: Las Caletas

About Las Caletas

Las Caletas is a sheltered cove on the southern shore of Banderas Bay, located approximately 14 miles from Puerto Vallarta and accessible exclusively by boat. Its secluded position within the bay ensures consistently calm and clear water conditions, making it an excellent location for introductory diving experiences, including Discover Scuba sessions and open-water certification dives. This site features a maximum depth of around 12-17 meters (40-56 feet), well within typical recreational limits, and boasts gentle topography with shallow reef sections and sandy flats. Conditions remain mild throughout the year, with minimal currents, creating a stress-free environment for divers to develop buoyancy control. Marine life here includes damselfish, pufferfish, garden eels emerging from the seabed, and occasional sightings of jawfish, eagle rays, and sea turtles. The calm conditions and diverse, approachable marine life contribute to a rewarding experience for those new to diving. The overall diving experience at Las Caletas is relaxed and educational, often combined with onshore activities like beach lunches and family-friendly entertainment. Dive operations typically begin from a shallow dock, ensuring easy entry for all experience levels, and instructors provide personalized guidance, especially for beginners or those needing a refresher.

Dive site facts: Las Caletas

Depth

12–17 m

Typical dive

12 m, 45-63 min

Current

Mild to none

Visibility

10–25 m

Water temperature

20–29°C

Entry

Boat / shallow dock

Level

Beginner

Dive type

Reef, marine life, discover scuba

Region / port

Puerto Vallarta, Banderas Bay

Coordinates

21.7575° N, 97.1673° W

Conditions & Currents

Las Caletas is renowned for its gentle conditions, characterized by mild to non-existent currents, particularly within the sheltered cove of Banderas Bay. The overall area around Puerto Vallarta experiences mild currents year-round, contributing to the site's suitability for all levels of divers. Surface conditions are typically calm, though some areas of the wider Banderas Bay can experience more notable tidal currents. Visibility is generally good, but can fluctuate, with some reports noting averages around 10-25 meters. The absence of significant surge and thermoclines makes it comfortable for new divers, allowing ample time to focus on buoyancy and marine life observation. Dive entry is usually from a shallow dock, simplifying the process for beginners. Divers should be aware of standard boat traffic in the area, though dive operations are well-managed.

Marine life & sighting chances

Damselfish

common

Pufferfish

common

Garden Eels

occasional

Jawfish

occasional

Rays

occasional

Eagle Rays

occasional

Sea Turtle

occasional

Grouper

occasional

Stingray

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Las Caletas typically begin from a shallow dock, offering a straightforward and calm entry point suitable for all experience levels. The dive site explores shallow reef sections and sandy flats within the sheltered cove. Divers generally descend to a maximum depth of around 12 to 17 meters, following a gentle progression that allows new divers to acclimate and practice buoyancy control. The route involves exploring the vibrant, coral-encrusted formations and observing marine life across the sandy bottom. Turn points are flexible, often determined by air consumption or dive duration, typically ranging from 45 to 63 minutes. The safety stop is conducted in the clear, shallow waters of the cove, often near the boat or dock, providing an easy and controlled ascent before surfacing.

Underwater photography

Las Caletas, with its clear, calm and shallow waters, offers excellent opportunities for wide-angle and macro photography, especially for capturing the vibrant damselfish and pufferfish in their natural habitat. A macro lens can highlight details of garden eels protruding from the sand or the intricate patterns of jawfish. Wide-angle setups are effective for capturing the overall reef structure and occasional passing rays. Due to the site's generally gentle currents and good visibility, photographers can focus on composition and subject behavior without battling strong conditions. Natural light is often sufficient in the shallower areas, but a strobe or video lights will enhance colors and reduce backscatter, particularly when photographing against the sandy bottom. Maintaining good buoyancy is crucial to avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystem and stirring up sediment.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Los Anegados

  Los Anegados is a notable dive site located just west of the Marietas Islands, near the mouth of Banderas Bay in the Central Pacific region…

• Majahuitas

  Majahuitas is a pristine and secluded cove located on the southern coast of Banderas Bay, near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

• Princesa & Nearby Wrecks

  The C-53 Felipe Xicotencatl, known as "The Wreck" in Cozumel, Mexico, is a prominent artificial reef and a key dive site in the Caribbean.

Getting there & logistics

Las Caletas is exclusively accessible by boat, typically as a full-day excursion from Puerto Vallarta, which is served by Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). The site is part of the 'Majahuitas, Las Caletas and Colimillas' area, offering multiple dive options within a single itinerary. Trips often combine diving with onshore activities like beach time and meals. Dive operators like Vallarta Adventures and Chico's Dive Shop offer guided trips, including Discover Scuba experiences and certified dives. No specific permits or park fees are mentioned beyond the tour cost, which usually covers equipment, instruction, and lunch. Day trips are the standard format, making it easy to integrate into a holiday schedule based in Puerto Vallarta.

Safety & environment

While Las Caletas is known for its calm and beginner-friendly conditions, general dive safety protocols remain paramount. Divers should ensure they have comprehensive dive insurance covering medical emergencies and potential evacuations. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Puerto Vallarta. In the event of a serious incident, evacuation would be via boat to Puerto Vallarta, followed by land transport to medical facilities. Site-specific hazards are minimal, primarily revolving around maintaining good buoyancy control to protect the marine environment and avoiding contact with any potentially stinging marine life. New divers are encouraged to stay close to their instructors, breathe slowly, and frequently monitor their buoyancy. Listen carefully to dive briefings for specific rules and emergency procedures.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Las Caletas FAQ

Liveaboards diving Las Caletas

These liveaboards may visit Las Caletas 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