

Best for beginner divers, 1-3m, boat entry, mild current.
El Cielo is a shallow sandbar located 800 metres from shore, accessible only by boat. This site features a sandy bottom and seagrass beds at an average depth of two metres. It is well-suited for beginners, offering mild currents and warm water temperatures ranging from 27C to 30C. Snorkellers frequently encounter Cushion Sea Stars, Great Barracuda, and Whiptail Stingrays. Other species recorded here include Nurse Sharks, French and Queen Angelfish, Caribbean Spiny Lobster, and various wrasses. Be aware that jellyfish may be present in the water. The site is highly rated for snorkelling, with typical sessions lasting around 30 minutes.
20.31850, -87.02150
The starfish are living creatures that breathe through their skin; do not pick them up or lift them out of the water as it causes them to suffocate.
The site is only accessible by boat from the San Miguel pier or southern marinas. There is no road or beach access.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 3m
Visibility
5m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
30 min
You can expect to see very common Cushion Sea Stars, common Great Barracuda, Whiptail Stingrays, and wrasses. Less frequently, you may encounter Nurse Sharks, French and Queen Angelfish, Caribbean Spiny Lobster, and various triggerfish or boxfish.
Yes, El Cielo is suitable for beginners due to its shallow depth of 1 to 3 metres and mild currents.
The depth at El Cielo ranges from 1 to 3 metres, with an average depth of 2 metres.
Access to El Cielo is by boat only, as it is located 800 metres from the shore.
Yes, El Cielo is a premier snorkelling location with a 5/5 rating.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at El Cielo (Starfish Sanctuary) in San Miguel de Cozumel. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C.
Divers at El Cielo (Starfish Sanctuary) in San Miguel de Cozumel should be aware of jellyfish. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
El Cielo (Starfish Sanctuary) in San Miguel de Cozumel typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at El Cielo (Starfish Sanctuary) in San Miguel de Cozumel typically ranges from 5 metres to 5 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.