Dive Site: Las Marietas Islands

About Las Marietas Islands

Las Marietas Islands, a volcanic archipelago situated at the mouth of Banderas Bay, are renowned as a nationally protected bird sanctuary and a premier dive destination. Just a short boat trip from Punta de Mita and Sayulita, these islands offer a unique blend of geological formations and thriving marine ecosystems. Formed over thousands of years by volcanic activity, the underwater landscape features caves, arches, and rocky reefs that provide shelter for countless species. Diving here caters to various skill levels, with calm, shallow areas perfect for beginners and more intricate environments for experienced divers. The visibility in Banderas Bay is generally excellent, complemented by warm water temperatures that make for comfortable extended dives. Jacques Cousteau famously recognized the region's rich biodiversity, leading to its nickname as the "world's aquarium." The islands are a haven for colorful tropical fish, rays, and sea turtles, with seasonal sightings of larger pelagics like whale sharks and mobula rays. The diverse marine life thrives amidst healthy coral structures and fascinating rock formations. Dive experiences often involve exploring submerged tunnels and cracks, revealing hidden marine creatures at every turn. A typical dive to Las Marietas involves boat transport from nearby coastal towns, with dive operators often including two immersions and equipment. The proximity to popular tourist hubs like Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita makes it an accessible and highly sought-after location for both scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

Dive site facts: Las Marietas Islands

Depth

10–30 ft (3–9 m) in beginner areas

Current

Mild

Visibility

10–40 ft (3–12 m)

Water temperature

72–78°F (22–26°C)

Entry

Boat

Level

Beginner to advanced

Dive type

Reef, cave, geological

Region / port

Puerto Vallarta / Nayarit

Coordinates

20.699, -105.565

Conditions & Currents

Currents around Las Marietas Islands are typically gentle, particularly in areas favored by beginner divers, contributing to a calm and manageable diving environment. However, conditions can vary, and divers should be prepared for moderate swells, especially when traversing between dive sites or during surface intervals. Visibility is generally excellent, often reaching up to 25 meters, but may experience temporary dips during certain seasons, such as plankton blooms attracting whale sharks. The warm water temperatures throughout much of the year reduce the risk of thermoclines, ensuring comfortable diving conditions for extended periods. Dive operators usually provide boat transport to and from the sites, often including two immersions, making entry and exit via boat standard procedure.

Marine life & sighting chances

Moray eels

November · common

Tropical fish

November · common

Rays

November · common

Sea turtles

common

Manta rays

July-September · occasional

Whale sharks

October-December · occasional

Dolphins

Winter · occasional

Octopus

occasional

Hawkbill Turtle

occasional

Pufferfish

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Las Marietas Islands typically begin with a boat entry from a nearby port, often incorporating two immersions. For many spots, a direct descent allows you to explore rocky reefs and shallow underwater caves. Beginner-friendly areas offer calm, shallow waters, often ranging from 10 to 30 feet, ideal for practicing buoyancy and observing tropical fish. More advanced divers might explore deeper crevices and arches formed by the volcanic activity, moving along the natural contours of the islands. The route often involves circumnavigating a specific rock formation or exploring a cluster of submerged rocks. Turn points are typically guided by gas consumption and bottom time limits, with a slow ascent following the natural slope or a direct line. Safety stops are conducted at 15 feet (5 meters) for three minutes, often near the boat, before surfacing.

Underwater photography

Las Marietas Islands offer excellent opportunities for underwater photography, particularly for wide-angle shots due to the dramatic volcanic formations, clear waters, and abundant schooling fish. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the grandeur of underwater arches, caves, and the overall reef ecosystem. When photographing the diverse marine life, from colorful tropical fish to sea turtles and rays, consider using an external strobe to enhance colors and reduce backscatter, especially in areas where ambient light might be limited within caves or under overhangs. Given the potentially moderate swells, maintaining good buoyancy control is crucial for stable shots. Be mindful of marine park regulations and marine life etiquette, avoiding any disturbance to the animals or their habitat. Capturing images of the unique topography alongside the vibrant fish life will produce compelling results.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Los Arcos

  Known for its marine park and rock formations.

• El Morro

  Offers underwater caves and rocky reefs with diverse fish.

• Isla Isabel

  Isla Isabel, a jewel within Mexico's Revillagigedo Archipelago, is a prime destination for divers seeking encounters with large pelagic…

• Salvatierra Wreck

  The Salvatierra Wreck offers an intriguing dive into history within the vibrant Sea of Cortez, off the coast of La Paz, Mexico.

• El Bajo Seamount

  El Bajo Seamount, also known as Marisla Seamount, is a world-class advanced dive site located off La Paz in the Sea of Cortez.

Getting there & logistics

Access to Las Marietas Islands typically involves flying into Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR). From there, you can travel to coastal towns like Punta de Mita, Sayulita, or La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, which serve as common departure points. Dive trips are usually day excursions, lasting around 4 hours and including boat transport and two dives. Some tours may also include visits to the famous Hidden Beach. Evidence of dive certification is required, and participants must complete a health questionnaire before diving. It's important to note that diving within 48 hours of flying is not recommended.

Safety & environment

Diving at Las Marietas Islands requires adherence to standard dive safety protocols. All divers must present valid certification and complete a health questionnaire, as certain pre-existing medical conditions may preclude diving. It is strongly recommended to have comprehensive dive insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation. The nearest recompression chamber would be in Puerto Vallarta, and evacuation procedures would depend on the nature of the emergency and sea conditions. Divers should always dive with an experienced guide, maintain proper buoyancy control, and respect marine park regulations. Awareness of boat traffic is essential during surface intervals and ascents. It is also advised to avoid diving within 48 hours of air travel.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Las Marietas Islands FAQ

Liveaboards diving Las Marietas Islands

These liveaboards may visit Las Marietas Islands 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