Baja California Sur is a state located on the southern end of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico, offering some of the best diving opportunities in the country. Here is some information about diving in Baja California Sur:
Best Diving Spots for Experienced Divers:
- Espiritu Santo Island: This island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in the Sea of Cortez. It is home to a variety of dive sites with strong currents and deep walls, offering a chance to see pelagic species such as whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, and schools of tuna.
- Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park: Cabo Pulmo is known for its living coral reef system, the only one on the west coast of North America. The park offers several dive sites with deep walls and strong currents, attracting large schools of pelagic fish like jack and tuna.
- Los Islotes: Located near La Paz, Los Islotes is home to a colony of friendly sea lions that love to play and interact with divers. The dive site offers several caves and rock formations to explore.
Best Diving Spots for Beginners:
- Cabo San Lucas: Cabo San Lucas offers several shallow dive sites that are perfect for beginners. The waters are calm and offer the chance to see a variety of marine life, including rays, turtles, and colorful reef fish.
- La Paz: La Paz is a popular destination for beginner divers, offering several shallow reef dives and the chance to see sea lions and whale sharks.
Marine Life:
Baja California Sur is home to a diverse range of marine life, including sea lions, whales, sharks, turtles, and a variety of colorful reef fish. The Sea of Cortez, located off the coast of Baja California Sur, is known for its rich marine biodiversity, including a variety of whales, dolphins, and large pelagic fish.
Dive Conditions:
The dive conditions in Baja California Sur can vary depending on the location and time of year. Water temperatures range from 20-30°C (68-86°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 Sur can vary depending on the dive operator and 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.
