Dive Site: Los Anegados

About 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 of Mexico. Positioned roughly a mile from Las Marietas, it serves as a popular second dive option, often paired with deeper sites like El Morro. This area is characterized by an intriguing underwater topography, featuring a rocky slope that begins at approximately 10 meters and extends down to a maximum depth of 25 meters. The site's sandy bottom provides habitat for a variety of marine species, including rays and eels, while the rocky formations create shelters and feeding grounds. While not as deep as some of its neighbors, Los Anegados offers a rich ecosystem. The waters here are warm, especially during the summer months, and generally provide good visibility, making it an accessible and enjoyable dive for many skill levels. Divers frequently encounter nurse sharks at Los Anegados, making it particularly renowned for these docile creatures. The site's position within the broader Banderas Bay means it benefits from the Pacific's diverse pelagic life, although its shallower nature makes it more focused on reef and bottom dwellers. Its proximity to the protected Marietas Islands also contributes to the health and biodiversity of the area, providing a calm yet engaging underwater experience.

Dive site facts: Los Anegados

Depth

10–25 m

Current

Mild to variable

Visibility

12–24 m

Water temperature

17–30 °C

Entry

Day boat

Level

All certified levels

Dive type

Reef, topography

Region / port

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Coordinates

21.7735° N, 97.2463° W

Conditions & Currents

Los Anegados is situated near the edge of Banderas Bay, where currents are typically milder than in more exposed areas like El Morro, yet can still be variable. The site is often recommended as a second dive, implying generally manageable conditions. Visibility is often good, ranging from 12-24 meters, but can vary seasonally. Water temperatures are warm, ranging from 17°C to 30°C throughout the year, with the warmest conditions in late summer. Divers should be aware of potential thermoclines, especially during cooler months. Entry is typically by boat, with divers descending onto the rocky slope. Exit is usually back onto the boat. While not known for strong currents, divers should always be mindful of local conditions and plan their gas accordingly, especially given the site's maximum depth of 25 meters.

Marine life & sighting chances

Nurse sharks

common

Rays

occasional

Eels

occasional

Tropical fish

common

Octopus

occasional

Nudibranchs

occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Los Anegados typically begin from a day boat, often as a second dive following a deeper excursion at a nearby site like El Morro. Divers descend onto a rocky slope that starts around 10 meters and gradually deepens to a maximum of 25 meters. The dive usually progresses along this slope, exploring the interesting topography and rocky outcrops where marine life congregates. Particular attention should be paid to the sandy bottom adjacent to the rocks, which hosts various species such as rays and eels. Keep an eye out for nurse sharks, which are a highlight here. The dive often concludes with a slow ascent along the slope, conducting the safety stop at 5 meters near the top of the reef before surfacing for boat pick-up.

Underwater photography

Los Anegados offers excellent opportunities for wide-angle photography focusing on its unique rocky formations and the nurse sharks that frequent the site. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the topography and broader reef scenes. For macro enthusiasts, the crevices and sandy patches may reveal nudibranchs, crabs, and eels, requiring a macro lens. Given the maximum depth of 25 meters, external strobes are highly recommended to bring out the vibrant colors of the marine life and corals. Practice good buoyancy to avoid disturbing the sandy bottom and delicate reef structures, ensuring clear shots and preserving the environment.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Las Marietas

  A UNESCO biosphere reserve known for volcanic tunnels and pelagics.

• El Morro

  A deeper site with caves and pinnacles, often paired with Los Anegados.

• Los Arcos

  Iconic granite islets with abundant life, caves, and tunnels.

• Majahuitas

  Picturesque boulders and diverse fish, south of Banderas Bay.

Getting there & logistics

Los Anegados is accessed via day boats primarily departing from Puerto Vallarta or nearby towns such as Sayulita and Punta Mita. Travelers typically fly into Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in Puerto Vallarta. Dive trips to Los Anegados are usually part of a two-tank dive excursion, often combined with El Morro or Marietas Islands due to their proximity. No specific permit fees are mentioned for Los Anegados itself, though national park fees may apply if combined with trips to the Marietas Islands. The typical duration for a two-tank trip including this site is half a day.

Safety & environment

While Los Anegados is generally considered suitable for all certified divers, being aware of and prepared for variable currents is important. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Puerto Vallarta, emphasizing the need for appropriate dive insurance covering emergency medical care and evacuation. Divers should always maintain good buoyancy control to avoid contact with the rocky slopes and marine life. Always dive within your training limits and follow the guidance of your divemaster, particularly regarding group separation and dive profiles. Emergency evacuation procedures would involve surface transport back to Puerto Vallarta.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Los Anegados FAQ

Liveaboards diving Los Anegados

These liveaboards may visit Los Anegados 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