Through decades of exploring Mexico’s coastal gems, I’ve found Sayulita’s underwater world exceptionally rewarding. This Riviera Nayarit town serves up world-class marine encounters at the protected Marietas Islands, where volcanic formations create natural aquariums teeming with sea life.
Beginners will appreciate the well-organized Discover Scuba program, which thoughtfully includes transport, gear, and lunch – eliminating common first-timer hassles. For certified explorers, the guided expeditions to Los Arcos and Yelapa consistently deliver close encounters with rays, sea turtles, and moray eels in crystal-clear waters.
I’m particularly fond of the Marietas Islands tour for its expert guides and uncrowded dive spots. The Los Arcos trip stands out for its remarkable marine diversity in protected waters.
Check out our favorite underwater adventures below.
Good To Know
- The Marietas Islands offer a protected national park with volcanic rock reefs, diverse marine life, and the opportunity for scuba diving and snorkeling.
- The Discover Scuba Diving Program in Sayulita provides a personalized experience for beginners and experienced divers, including transportation, equipment, and lunch.
- Scuba diving at Los Arcos, a protected marine area near Sayulita, allows the chance to see rays, turtles, and eels with all necessary equipment and a professional guide.
- Scuba diving in Yelapa, located in Bahía de Banderas, offers a guided dive experience with private transportation from Sayulita and caters to both beginners and experienced divers.
- Sayulita’s scuba diving experiences are highly recommended by travelers, with small-group tours and personalized attention for a memorable underwater adventure.
Scuba Diving Marietas Islands
Scuba diving enthusiasts delight in exploring the Marietas Islands, a protected national park off the coast of Banderas Bay in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit region. Departing from the charming fishing village of Punta de Mita, visitors board boats to reach the islands and discover an underwater world teeming with volcanic rock reefs, puffer fish, dolphins, and the endangered blue-footed boobies.
Scuba diving and snorkeling are the main activities in the Marietas Islands National Park, offering visitors a chance to swim among the vibrant marine life. The small-group tours provide personalized attention, and the customizable itinerary ensures an unforgettable experience. Participants must present evidence of dive certification, and diving within 48 hours of flying isn’t recommended.
Due to the park’s protected status, the excursion isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems and other medical conditions. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The Marietas Islands offer a unique opportunity for scuba divers and snorkelers to enjoy a captivating underwater landscape.
Read our full review: Scuba Diving Marietas Islands Review
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Discover Scuba Diving Program
What better way to experience the underwater wonders of Sayulita than through the Discover Scuba Diving Program? This comprehensive package includes round-trip transportation to and from the boat, all necessary equipment, and a delicious lunch. The program takes participants to explore the vibrant marine life around the Sayulita area, including the chance to spot colorful fish, coral formations, and perhaps even sea turtles.
The Discover Scuba Diving Program is recommended by 100% of travelers, and with a maximum of 6 participants, you’re guaranteed a personalized and attentive experience. The program is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, with a minimum age of 10 years old. However, it’s important to note that it’s not accessible for pregnant women or those with certain medical conditions. After your dive, you’ll return to the Sayulita Entourage office, where gratuity is recommended to show your appreciation for the fantastic experience.
Read our full review: Discover Scuba Diving Program Review
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Discover Scuba Diving
With the Discover Scuba Diving program, travelers can enjoy the captivating underwater world surrounding Sayulita. Offered by Oceano Dive and Surf, this 5-star rated activity features full gear, a professional English/Spanish-speaking guide, and free access to the hotel pool for practice. Participants will receive PADI original student materials, making it an ideal option for both beginners and those seeking further training.
The program includes complimentary hotel pickup and return to the meeting point at Oceano Dive and Surf. Children as young as 10 can join, provided they’re accompanied by an adult. A minimum of 2 people per booking is required, and the group size is capped at 6 travelers.
Not recommended for pregnant individuals, those with back or heart problems, or guests with other serious medical conditions, the Discover Scuba Diving activity requires a moderate level of physical fitness. Confirmation is provided upon booking, and souvenir photos are available for purchase.
Read our full review: Discover Scuba Diving Review
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Scuba Diving Los Arcos
For those seeking an unforgettable scuba diving experience, the protected marine area of Los Arcos is a must-visit destination near Sayulita. This small group tour welcomes beginners and experienced divers alike, with the chance to explore the area’s diverse marine life, including rays, turtles, and eels.
The tour includes all necessary scuba diving equipment, including two dive tanks, as well as beverages, bottled water, and snacks. A professional guide will lead the group, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Transportation to and from the dive site is provided via boat.
To participate, divers must have the appropriate certification and provide their shoe sizes at the time of booking. Pregnant travelers, those with back problems or heart conditions, and those with a low level of physical fitness aren’t recommended for this activity. With a maximum of 13 travelers, this tour is likely to sell out, so booking in advance is advised.
Read our full review: Scuba Diving Los Arcos Review
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Scuba Diving Yelapa
Nestled along the enchanting Bahía de Banderas, Yelapa offers scuba divers a captivating underwater adventure. With Scuba Diving Yelapa, you’ll enjoy a guided dive experience that includes all fees, taxes, and the use of top-notch scuba equipment. After a 30-minute private transfer from Sayulita, you’ll meet your group at the Oceano Adventures Sayulita store located on the highway.
The dive itself starts at 9:00 am and lasts until you return to the meeting point. With a maximum of 2 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience tailored to your skill level. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Scuba Diving Yelapa caters to all. Just be sure you’re in good physical condition, as the activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.
With the stunning Bahía de Banderas as your backdrop and the diverse marine life of Yelapa to explore, this scuba diving excursion promises an unforgettable underwater experience.
Read our full review: Scuba Diving Yelapa Review
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The Sum Up
Sayulita offers a variety of exceptional scuba diving experiences. Adventurous divers can explore the rich marine life of the Marietas Islands or try a Discover Scuba Diving program. Those seeking a more leisurely dive can venture to Los Arcos or Yelapa. With diverse underwater landscapes and abundant sea creatures, Sayulita’s scuba diving opportunities cater to divers of all skill levels, making it an ideal destination for unforgettable aquatic adventures.