What is the Best Time to Dive in Playa del Carmen? The Definitive Riviera Maya Calendar
One of the questions we hear most often in our 30 years of underwater experience is: "When is the best date to go scuba diving in Playa del Carmen?"
The short answer is that you can dive all year round. However, the expert answer (and the one you need to plan your ideal trip) is: it depends on what you want to see.
The Mexican Caribbean is not a static stage; it is a living ecosystem that changes with the seasons. While the water temperature is friendly 12 months a year, marine life follows a fascinating natural calendar. From the thrill of Bull Sharks in winter to the majesty of the Whale Shark in summer, each month offers a different spectacle.
In this guide, we break down the Riviera Maya diving calendar so you can choose your own adventure with Deep Mexico.
Winter (November to March): Adrenaline and Marine Giants
If strong emotions and megafauna are your thing, winter is undoubtedly the best time to dive in Playa del Carmen.
Although the water cools down slightly (dropping to about 75°F - 79°F / 24°C - 26°C, so we recommend using a full 3mm or 5mm wetsuit), the visual reward is unmatched.
Bull Shark Season
This is the main event. Between November and March, female Bull Sharks visit the shores of Playa del Carmen.
- What to expect? A dive full of respect and awe. Seeing these Bull Sharks in their natural habitat is a life-changing experience.
- Required level: We recommend being an Advanced Open Water Diver or having good experience with buoyancy control, as this is a slightly deeper and more static dive.
Spotted Eagle Rays
During the winter months, especially in January and February, it is common to see squadrons of Spotted Eagle Rays"flying" against the current. Their spotted patterns and elegant swimming are a dream for any underwater photographer. The best places to see them are current reefs like those in Cozumel and some deep spots in Playa.
Spring and Summer (May to September): Warm Water, Turtles, and Whale Sharks
When the temperature rises on land, the sea turns into a warm, crystal-clear soup (82°F - 84°F / 28°C - 29°C). It is the perfect time to dive with minimal thermal protection (a shorty or rash guard is enough) and enjoy spectacular visibility.
Sea Turtle Season
If you are a turtle lover, summer is your moment. From May to September is nesting season.
- In the water: Activity on the reefs increases drastically. You are almost guaranteed to find Green Turtles and Loggerhead Turtles resting in crevices or feeding on the bottom.
- On the beach: At night, many of them come out to lay their eggs on the beaches of the Riviera Maya.
Whale Shark Tour
Although technically not a scuba diving activity (it is done only with snorkel due to federal regulations), it is a must-do experience for any ocean lover. From June to mid-September, the largest fish in the world gathers north of the peninsula (near Isla Mujeres and Holbox) to feed on plankton. It is a full-day excursion worth every minute.
The "Evergreens": Year-Round Activities
There are certain jewels of diving in the Mexican Caribbean that do not depend on the calendar. These are safe bets whether you come in January or August.
Cenote Diving: The Weather-Proof Plan
Cenotes are unique in the world and have a huge advantage: they do not depend on the outside weather.
- Constant temperature: The water in the caverns remains at 75°F (24°C) all year round.
- No wind or waves: If there is a "Norte" (strong wind) and the port closes for ocean navigation, the cenotes remain open and perfect.
- Infinite visibility: Freshwater filtered by limestone offers visibility of over 200 feet (60+ meters) always. It is ideal for certified divers looking for a mystical experience.
Scuba Diving in Cozumel
The island of Cozumel, famous for its walls and drift diving, is spectacular all year round. The current is always present, feeding the corals and bringing life. Crossing with us from Playa del Carmen is simple and gives you access to the most famous reefs in the world, such as Palancar and Santa Rosa.
Why the Season Matters Less Than Who You Dive With
You can come during the best week of the year, but if you get on a crowded boat with inexperienced guides, your experience won't be ideal. This is where the importance of choosing quality over quantity comes in.
At Deep Mexico, we understand the frustrations of divers who feel they have been promised one thing and given another in the past. That is why our promise stands firm all year round:
Small Groups: It doesn't matter if it's high season. We keep groups small to guarantee safety and personal attention.
Expert Guides: With over 30 years of experience, we know exactly which reef to visit based on the day's conditions. We won't take you to a spot with bad visibility just to check a box.
Honesty: If the weather doesn't allow for seeing Bull Sharks or going to Cozumel, we will tell you. We prefer to reschedule or suggest an incredible Cenote rather than have you have a bad experience.
Ready to Plan Your Scuba Trip?
It doesn't matter if you are looking for winter adrenaline or warm summer relaxation. What matters is that you are one step away from living an unforgettable adventure.
Contact us today. Tell us what month you plan to visit, and we will design the perfect diving itinerary for you.
