Baja California is a long peninsula located on the western coast of Mexico, offering some of the best diving opportunities in the region. Here is some information about diving in Baja California:
Best Diving Spots for Experienced Divers:
- Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park: This park is home to the only living coral reef system on the west coast of North America, and it offers an abundance of marine life, including whale sharks, sea lions, and manta rays.
- Gordo Banks: This is a deep dive site, starting at 30 meters and going down to over 100 meters. It's known for its strong currents, which attract large schools of pelagic species like hammerhead sharks, tuna, and jacks.
- San Diego Bay Wrecks: This dive site is home to several sunken ships, including a World War II aircraft carrier and a destroyer. The wrecks are covered in colorful marine life, including large schools of fish and sea turtles.
Best Diving Spots for Beginners:
- Los Islotes: This is a shallow dive site with calm waters, making it perfect for beginner divers. It's home to a large colony of friendly sea lions, who love to play and interact with divers.
- Playa del Amor: This is another shallow dive site, located in Cabo San Lucas. It offers a variety of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and octopuses.
Marine Life:
Baja California is home to a wide variety of marine life, including large schools of fish, sea turtles, rays, and sharks. It's also a popular destination for whale watching, with several species of whales, including humpbacks and gray whales, migrating through its waters.
Dive Conditions:
The dive conditions in Baja California can vary depending on the location and the time of year. Water temperatures range from 16-27°C (60-81°F), with the warmest temperatures occurring in the summer months. Visibility can vary depending on the location, but is generally good. Diving conditions can be challenging at some of the more advanced sites, with strong currents and deep walls.
Cost:
The cost of diving in Baja California can vary depending on the dive operator and the type of dive. A single dive can cost between $50 to $100 USD, and a full-day dive excursion can cost between $150 to $250 USD. Equipment rental and transportation costs may also apply. It's always a good idea to research and compare different dive operators to find one that fits your budget and preferences.
