Dive Site: Los Arcos - Puerto Vallarta

About Los Arcos - Puerto Vallarta

Los Arcos, a National Marine Park situated off the coast of Puerto Vallarta near Mismaloya, stands as one of the region's most iconic and biologically rich dive destinations. This site is characterized by impressive granite archways and rock formations that dramatically break the surface, hinting at the complex underwater topography below. The protected waters of Los Arcos are renowned for their intricate network of caves, tunnels, and arches, which provide shelter and breeding grounds for a diverse array of marine life. Diving here reveals a spectacular underwater landscape, featuring rocky slopes, deep walls, and thriving reef systems. The area is also home to Devil's Canyon, an impressive 800-foot underwater cliff, and El Bajo, offering deeper exploration opportunities. These formations, combined with the often-calm conditions of Banderas Bay, make Los Arcos suitable for both novice and experienced divers. The marine biodiversity is a major draw, with abundant colorful fish, rays, eels, and crustaceans commonly sighted. During cooler months, the visibility often improves, increasing the chances of encountering larger pelagic species. The unique geological features and the sheer abundance of life create a dynamic and rewarding dive experience that showcases the Pacific Coast's underwater ecological paradise. Access to Los Arcos is typically by boat from Puerto Vallarta, with dive operators offering various trips to explore its distinct dive zones. The site's versatility, from shallow reef areas to deeper drop-offs, ensures that each dive offers new discoveries and photographic opportunities.

Dive site facts: Los Arcos - Puerto Vallarta

Depth

5–120 ft / 1.5–36.5 m

Typical dive

12–25 m, 50–60 min

Current

Mild to strong, with potential for down-currents

Visibility

10–100 ft / 3–30 m

Water temperature

68–88°F / 20–31°C

Entry

Boat / negative entry

Level

All skill levels, Advanced for deeper areas

Dive type

Reef, wall, cave, swim-through

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Coordinates

20.54604, -105.29176

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Los Arcos can vary from mild to strong, with some areas experiencing significant surge, especially around the rock formations. Divers have reported very strong downward currents near drop-offs, necessitating careful buoyancy control and awareness, particularly in deeper sections like Devil's Canyon. Entry is typically a negative entry from the boat to avoid surface currents and boat traffic. Visibility can range significantly, from as low as 10-20 feet during certain periods to 50 feet or more, influenced by rainfall and plankton blooms. Thermoclines are possible, leading to temperature variations within a single dive. Divers should be prepared for changing conditions and follow their divemaster's guidance closely.

Marine life & sighting chances

Moray Eel

common

Octopus

common

Spotted Eagle Ray

occasional

Lobster

common

Angelfish

common

Pufferfish

common

Nudibranch

common

Green Sea Turtle

occasional

Snapper

common

Grunt

common

Manta Ray

November-May · occasional

Humpback Whale

November-May · rare

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Your dive at Los Arcos typically begins with a boat ride from Puerto Vallarta, often heading towards the iconic granite formations. Upon arrival, you'll perform a negative entry to quickly descend and avoid surface currents and boat traffic. The dive typically involves exploring around the base of the arches and rock formations, navigating through small swim-throughs and tunnels. Depth can vary, with shallower areas around 25-45 feet suitable for all levels, and deeper sections, such as Devil's Canyon, plunging to 800 feet, which are reserved for advanced divers. The route often follows rocky slopes, keeping an eye out for abundant moray eels, octopuses, and schooling fish. The turn point is usually determined by air consumption or bottom time, with the ascent initiated gradually. Your safety stop will be conducted in the calmer, shallower waters closer to the main rock structures, allowing for a thorough check before surfacing.

Underwater photography

Los Arcos offers diverse photographic opportunities, from wide-angle shots capturing the dramatic archways and schooling fish to macro photography focusing on nudibranchs, colorful reef inhabitants, and moray eels. For wide-angle, a rectilinear lens or a fisheye lens will be ideal for the impressive rock formations and arches, especially when visibility is good. When visibility is reduced, a macro lens will be more effective for capturing the numerous small creatures and intricate details of the reef. External strobes are highly recommended to bring out the true colors of the marine life and coral, even in shallower depths. Be mindful of your buoyancy in and around the swim-throughs and caves to avoid disturbing the environment or stirring up sediment. Patience is key, particularly when photographing elusive octopuses or shy eels within their rocky crevices.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Las Marietas Islands

  A national park known for diverse marine life and famous hidden beach.

• El Morro

  A challenging offshore site featuring dramatic topography and pelagic encounters.

• Majahuitas

  A protected cove with rocky shores, popular for its shallow reefs and common eagle ray sightings.

• Las Caletas

  Known for its beautiful coves and diverse marine life, suitable for various dive levels.

• Los Anegados

  An offshore site offering excellent visibility and dense schools of fish.

Getting there & logistics

To reach Los Arcos, fly into Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), which has direct flights from major cities in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Most dive operators depart from marinas in Puerto Vallarta or nearby La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. Dive trips to Los Arcos are typically half-day excursions, often combined with another nearby site like Majahuitas. One-tank and two-tank dive options are common for certified divers, with beginner dives also available. Expect to pay a marina fee, usually a small cash amount, at the booking or departure point. While no specific permit is mentioned, the area is a National Marine Park, implying general regulations for protected areas. Many dive operators offer hotel pick-up and drop-off services for convenience.

Safety & environment

For dive safety at Los Arcos, it is crucial to maintain excellent buoyancy control, especially in areas with surge or strong currents, and to be aware of the 800-foot drop-off at Devil's Canyon. Divers should always stay with their group and follow the divemaster's instructions, as incidents of groups being separated have been reported. A PADI-certified divemaster will be in the water with you, but personal responsibility for dive planning and safety checks remains paramount. The nearest recompression chamber is located in Puerto Vallarta, and divers should ensure they have adequate dive insurance that covers emergency evacuation and medical treatment. Always complete a medical questionnaire honestly; if any conditions apply, secure a doctor's clearance before diving. No alcohol should be consumed before diving, and a minimum of 24 hours should pass before flying after your last dive.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Los Arcos - Puerto Vallarta FAQ

Liveaboards diving Los Arcos - Puerto Vallarta

These liveaboards may visit Los Arcos - Puerto Vallarta 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

$249/day

Quino del Mar

Mexico

20 guests36 m

$392/day

Nautilus Gallant Lady

Mexico

12 guests35.36 m

$332/day