Scuba diving in Punta Mita

Costa · Local guide to the Mexican Pacific coast · Updated October 2026

Diving near Punta Mita centers on the Marietas Islands, where La Redonda has three swim-through tunnels and a wall dropping about 30 meters, with giant manta rays seen best from July to November. Other Banderas Bay sites range from shallow slopes to experienced-level pinnacles.

The main dive sites

DIVE Magazine describes Banderas Bay as a natural barrier to the currents moving along the Pacific coast, which draws divers looking for good-quality diving. Boats typically run two-tank trips, drift dives are common, and there is little recreational wreck diving.

Site	What it offers	Level
Las Marietas (La Redonda)	Three swim-through tunnels, wall to about 30 m, mantas at cleaning stations in season	Open water to advanced
Los Anegados	Rocky slope from about 10 m to 25 m; nurse sharks	Open water
El Morro	Caves and pinnacles	Experienced

Seasons

The dry season runs November to April and summers can be rainy. Giant manta rays are best seen from July to November, and humpback whales visit in winter. DIVE Magazine does not publish water-temperature or visibility figures for the area, so ask your dive operator for current conditions.

Booking

Use a certified dive operator and tell them your certification level and last dive date. Your villa team or Costa can arrange it.

Who this is not for

If you do not dive, a snorkeling trip to the islands gives you much of the same marine life. For beginners, ask for an introductory dive with a certified instructor.

Tell Costa your dates, group and what you want to do in the chat, and we will plan it around your villa.

Questions people ask

Can I scuba dive near Punta Mita?

Yes, at the Marietas Islands and other Banderas Bay sites.

When can I see manta rays?

Giant mantas are best seen July to November, per DIVE Magazine.

Is diving suitable for beginners?

Ask a certified operator about introductory dives.

What is La Redonda?

A Marietas dive site with three swim-through tunnels and a wall dropping about 30 meters.

Do I need to be certified?

For most dives, yes. Some operators offer introductory dives.

Have a specific question? Ask me in the chat.

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Sources: DIVE Magazine: Diving the Central Pacific of Mexico. Details as published and checked in October 2026; dates, seasons and conditions can change.