

Best for intermediate divers, 3-36m, boat entry, moderate current.
Los Arcos in Playa del Carmen offers a diverse underwater landscape featuring reef, wall, cave, canyon, and artificial reef structures. Divers can explore depths ranging from 3 to 36 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. Access is by boat only, and the site is suited for intermediate divers due to moderate to strong currents. Visibility typically ranges from 6 to 18 metres, with water temperatures between 27 and 29C. Night diving is available for qualified divers. Species recorded around this area include French Angelfish, wrasses, Blue Tang, Caribbean Ocean Surgeonfish, and various moray eels, alongside occasional sightings of Nurse Sharks and stingrays.
20.67848, -87.00957
Current at Los Arcos can accelerate without much warning, particularly around the canyon and wall sections, so plan your dive with the current rather than against it and confirm conditions with your boat operator before descending. Night diving here is a legitimate option, so if you have the certification and want to extend your day, ask your operator about scheduling a second entry after dark.
Access is via boat from the marina La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.
Recorded at this site
Depth
3-36m
Visibility
6-18m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-29°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
Year-round
Species recorded around this area include French Angelfish, wrasses, Blue Tang, Caribbean Ocean Surgeonfish, various moray eels, and occasional Nurse Sharks or stingrays.
No, this site is classified for intermediate divers due to the presence of moderate to strong currents and complex terrain.
The site ranges from 3 to 36 metres in depth, with an average depth of 20 metres.
Los Arcos requires boat access.
The site is primarily a dive location with depths reaching 36 metres and significant currents, making it unsuitable for snorkelling.
Expect moderate to strong currents that can accelerate without warning, particularly near the canyon and wall sections.
Diving at Los Arcos in Sayulita requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Los Arcos in Sayulita. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit Los Arcos in Sayulita are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.