

Best for beginner divers, 10-20m, boat entry, moderate current.
El Islote is a reef, wall, and pinnacle site in Cabo Pulmo, Mexico, accessible only by boat. The site features depths between 10 and 20 metres with visibility ranging from 12 to 30 metres. It is suitable for beginners, though moderate currents require good buoyancy control. Divers and snorkellers may encounter California Sea Lions, King Angelfish, and various wrasses, triggerfish, and parrotfish. Stonefish are present on the reef structure, so maintain distance from the seabed. Surge can be significant near the pinnacle and wall, particularly during boat entry and exit. Night diving is permitted, offering a different perspective of the reef life.
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Surge can be significant around the pinnacle and wall sections, so keep your distance from the reef to avoid being pushed into it. A guide is available through the on-site tours, which is worth considering for your first visit so you learn where the stonefish risk is highest.
Permits are required for diving in the marine park.
Recorded at this site
Depth
10-20m
Visibility
12-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
21-29°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Divers and snorkellers can encounter California Sea Lions, King Angelfish, Panamic Green Moray, Snowflake Moray, wrasses, Razor Surgeonfish, Blue-barred Parrotfish, triggerfish, Guineafowl Puffer, Barberfish, Redlip Parrotfish, groupers, Moorish Idol, and Round Stingray.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, although the presence of moderate currents means divers should be comfortable managing their buoyancy.
The site ranges from 10 to 20 metres in depth, with an average depth of 18 metres.
El Islote is a boat-only site; you must reach the location via boat from Cabo Pulmo.
Yes, the site is open to both diving and snorkelling activities.
Be mindful of stonefish resting on the reef structure and avoid contact with the seabed. Additionally, be prepared for surge and swell conditions during boat entry and exit.
Diving at El Islote in Cabo Pulmo requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at El Islote in Cabo Pulmo. Water temperatures range from 21°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit El Islote in Cabo Pulmo are May, June, July, August, September, October, and November. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Expect moderate currents at El Islote in Cabo Pulmo. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at El Islote in Cabo Pulmo typically ranges from 12 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.