Surrounded on three sides by water, the Baja Peninsula offers astounding dives filled with pelagic species. The Sea of Cortez is the main focal point of Baja California, but this region is also known as the setting off point for Socorro Island. You’ll also find liveaboards destined for Guadalupe from the Baja Peninsula. At this far-off island, cage diving is king.The best diving in the region is accessible only by liveaboard. This is true for Socorro and Guadalupe as well as several locations in the Sea of Cortez. If you’re committed to staying on dry land, be prepared to dive from small speedboats.Aside from the fascinating coral reefs that are protected from heavy currents in the Sea of Cortez, most of the underwater landscapes consist of remote volcanic islands mixed with underwater pinnacles. These outer islands are surrounded by raging currents that relegate these dives to divers with a lot of experience. Beginners should stick to the protected reefs on the east side of the peninsula.While a reef hook may be helpful in some areas, they are not permitted in protected areas. A 16% tax is levied on all diving activities in Mexico.
Best Scuba Diving Spots in Baja California
Baja California Sea Life
In the Pacific, you can come across everything from massive humpback whales to tiny seahorses. Dolphins play near the shoreline, and intimidating sharks patrol the deep. These include Great White Sharks in Guadalupe and Hammerhead Sharks in the Sea of Cortez. In the same sea, you can also find starfish, angelfish, and wrasse of various shapes and sizes. Down at the tip of the peninsula as well as near Socorro Island, you might be lucky enough to run across whale sharks and manta rays, in season. Finally, the sea lions in Los Islotes and nearby are a delight to all who dive with them.
How To Get There
Fly into Cabo or Tijuana, or simply drive down from California. Bear in mind that you’ll need Mexican Insurance to drive a car through the country, or you’ll accrue a hefty fine. If you don’t have your own transport, hop on a bus or fly from destination to destination. Liveaboards are a must for islands further afield.
