

Best for beginner divers, 5-12m, boat entry, mild current.
San Gabriel is a reef site located off the Ixtapa Coast, Mexico, suitable for beginner divers. The topography consists of coral and rock structures, with depths ranging from 5 to 12 metres and an average depth of 8 metres. Conditions are generally mild, with visibility varying between 5 and 20 metres and gentle currents. Access to the site is by boat only. Divers should maintain good buoyancy control to avoid contact with sharp coral and rocks on the seabed. Water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, typically between 27 and 31 degrees Celsius.
17.64750, -101.62950
Watch where you place your hands and fins throughout the dive, as the reef has sharp coral and rocks that can cause cuts if you brush against them. Confirm boat and facilities availability with your local operator before heading out, as on-site amenities are not guaranteed.
Meet at the pier close to the big ZIHUA letters in color.
Recorded at this site
Depth
5-12m
Visibility
5-20m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-31°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
40 min
Best Time
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
Yes, the site is well suited to beginner divers, offering shallow depths and mild currents.
The site ranges from 5 to 12 metres in depth, with an average depth of 8 metres.
San Gabriel is accessible only by boat.
The main hazards are sharp coral and rocks on the seabed, which can cause cuts. Divers should also remain aware of boat traffic during entry and exit.
While the site is primarily used for diving, its shallow depth profile may accommodate snorkelling, provided boat access is arranged.
Diving at San Gabriel in Zihuatanejo requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at San Gabriel in Zihuatanejo. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 31°C.
The best months to visit San Gabriel in Zihuatanejo are January, February, March, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
San Gabriel in Zihuatanejo typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at San Gabriel in Zihuatanejo typically ranges from 5 metres to 20 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.