

Best for intermediate divers, 8-15m, boat entry, moderate current.
Sabalos is a drift reef located 5000 metres off the coast of Playa del Carmen. The reef structure ranges from 8 to 15 metres in depth, with an average of 12 metres. Divers experience moderate currents that require careful buoyancy control to avoid contact with sharp coral and rock formations. Visibility typically spans 10 to 30 metres, and water temperatures remain between 27 and 30C. This site is accessible by boat only and is suited for intermediate divers due to the potential for strengthening currents. A typical dive lasts 45 minutes. Divers should remain close to their group and be mindful of entanglement risks within the reef area.
20.58126, -87.11002
May and September offer the most consistent conditions at this site, so if you can time your trip around those months, do it. Current at Sabalos can strengthen without much warning, so stay close to your group and keep well clear of the reef edge to avoid contact with sharp coral and rock.
Reach the dive site with a 10-minute boat ride from the beach in Playa del Carmen.
Recorded at this site
Depth
8-15m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-30°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
May, Sep
The reef depth ranges from 8 to 15 metres, with an average depth of 12 metres.
Sabalos is rated for intermediate divers, primarily due to the presence of moderate currents that can strengthen without warning.
Sabalos is a boat-only dive site located 5000 metres from the shore.
May and September offer the most consistent conditions for diving at this site.
Diving at Sabalos in Playa del Carmen requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Sabalos in Playa del Carmen. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C.
The best months to visit Sabalos in Playa del Carmen are May and September. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Expect moderate currents at Sabalos in Playa del Carmen. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Sabalos in Playa del Carmen typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.