Scuba diving in Puerto Vallarta is a hidden gem. This well-known beach town is ideal for diving adventures.
I’ve dived all over Mexico, and Puerto Vallarta is a standout, not just for its dive spots but also for the town’s charm. I’ve lived there on and off since 2017 and always enjoy diving there.
Puerto Vallarta isn’t just a vacation spot; it’s also prime for scuba diving. With a short and scenic boat ride, you can reach many dive sites in Banderas Bay suitable for both beginners and advanced divers. The area boasts shipwrecks, caves, and underwater mountain ranges, teeming with marine life like rays, turtles, moray eels, dolphins, and even humpback whales.
While places like Cozumel and Playa del Carmen might be more famous, Puerto Vallarta holds its own as a diving destination. It’s also just a nicer place to visit overall, in my opinion, having spent significant time there.
Reaching the best dive sites from town involves a boat trip around Banderas Bay, providing stunning scenery along the way. And there’s plenty to do in Puerto Vallarta when you’re not diving. You can enjoy other adventure activities, explore cultural sites, or simply relax on the beach with a margarita.
For a detailed dive experience, you should know the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta, typically from November to May, when the seas are calm. However, winter can mean lower visibility and colder waters, down to 72°F (26°C) in February. While plankton blooms can affect visibility, they also attract manta rays and sharks.
Travel season peaks between December and March, especially around Christmas and New Year’s, so book accommodations early. Holy Week (Semana Santa) is another busy time with high cultural significance but large crowds.
Summer brings the rainy season, with hot, humid weather and frequent rains, leading to fewer crowds and lower prices. The water is warmest in the summer (around 85°F/30°C in August-September) and visibility is at its best, making it not a bad time to dive.
Here are some top dive spots in Puerto Vallarta:
Los Arcos: Popular for its arches, caves, tunnels, and marine life like lobsters, octopuses, moray eels, and colorful fish. It suits all levels of divers.
Chimo: Suitable for advanced divers, this spot offers encounters with manta rays, sea turtles, and humpback whales (December to April). The site features impressive rock formations resembling cathedral pillars.
Marieta Islands: A national park about an hour from Puerto Vallarta, packed with marine life due to its protected status. Divers can spot giant manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins, and more, with excellent opportunities for all skill levels.
Diving costs vary based on distance. Los Arcos dives range from $90-110, Marieta Islands dives cost about $120-150, and two-tank tours to Chimo average around $150. Beginners can try the Discover Scuba Diving course for $50 or get PADI certified for around $450.
Ensure the dive shop you choose is PADI recognized, professional, and adheres to safety standards. Banderas Scuba Republic and PV Ocean Tours are highly recommended.
For safety, note the nearest hyperbaric chamber is in Cabo San Lucas, not Puerto Vallarta.
Travel insurance is crucial for divers. The Divers Alert Network (DAN) comes highly recommended.
Most travelers arrive via the Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR). There are direct flights from the US and Canada, with more options during high season. Alternatives include Mexico City or Guadalajara, both offering quick domestic flights to PV.
Puerto Vallarta also serves cruise ships, allowing for quick diving excursions. Nearby areas like Sayulita, Bucerias, Punta de Mita, Mismaloya, or Yelapa are also great bases for diving and are accessible by bus or water taxis.
Accommodation in Puerto Vallarta ranges from big resorts to small family-run hotels.
Scuba diving here might not be as famous as other spots, but it’s a worthy addition to any beach holiday. Even a day trip to Marieta Islands or Los Arcos is worthwhile. Advanced divers should consider extra days for challenging sites like Chimo.
After diving, enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s top-notch restaurants and bars, providing the perfect end to a day of underwater adventure.
