

Best for beginner divers, 1-5m, shore entry, mild current.
Punta Esmeralda in Playa del Carmen is a unique coastal site where a freshwater cenote flows directly into the Caribbean Sea. This interaction creates a distinct halocline, resulting in variable visibility ranging from 3 to 15 metres as the fresh and salt waters mix. The site is suitable for beginners, offering a shallow average depth of 3 metres with a maximum of 5 metres. Snorkellers access the reef directly from the shore. Conditions are generally mild, though the mixing point can experience lower visibility. Facilities at the site include changing rooms and showers for visitor convenience.
20.65320, -87.04610
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Recorded nearby, within 20km
Depth
Up to 5m
Visibility
3-15m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
27-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
60 min
Yes, this site is suitable for beginners due to its shallow depths and mild currents.
The depth ranges from 1 to 5 metres, with an average depth of 3 metres.
Punta Esmeralda is a shore entry site.
Yes, Punta Esmeralda is a designated site for snorkelling.
The mixing of freshwater from the cenote and saltwater from the sea creates a halocline, which can result in blurry or low visibility.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Punta Esmeralda in Playa del Carmen. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C.