BEST TIME TO DIVE IN THE RIVIERA MAYA
What to expect each season: water temperature, visibility, weather and the marine life you can find month by month.
Introduction
One of the questions we hear most is when to travel to dive the Riviera Maya. The short answer is that you can dive all year: the water in the Mexican Caribbean stays warm, and the reefs and cenotes are open all twelve months.
The long answer depends on what you want to see. Each season has its own advantages: some species only show up in certain months, the weather changes between winter and summer, and some periods are busier than others. Here is what to expect so you can choose the best time to dive in the Riviera Maya for your trip.
If you want to see bull sharks, come between November and March. If you want the warmest water, choose summer. If you prefer stable weather and little rain, spring is usually a great option.
The seasons at a glance
Water temperature usually sits around 25 °C (77 °F) in the cooler months and gets close to 29 °C (84 °F) in summer. This is what each season looks like:
Winter · Dec to Mar
Bull shark season. Cooler water and some windy “norte” days.
Spring · Apr to May
Stable weather, little rain and usually calm seas.
Summer · Jun to Aug
The warmest water of the year and turtle season.
Fall · Sep to Nov
Fewer visitors, but it overlaps with the most active part of hurricane season.
What to expect each season
Winter: bull sharks and cooler water
From November to March, female bull sharks arrive off the coast of Playa del Carmen, with December to February usually the most active months. It is a deep dive, so advanced certification and good buoyancy control are usually required. The water is cooler, so a 5 mm wetsuit can make a difference. Learn more about our bull shark diving.
Spring: the sweet spot
April and May tend to bring little rain, calm seas and pleasant temperatures in and out of the water. It is a good time for reefs, Cozumel and cenotes. Just keep in mind that Easter week brings more visitors.
Summer: warm water and turtles
From June to August, the water reaches its highest temperature of the year. It is turtle nesting season, so you are more likely to see them on nearby reefs. It is also whale shark season around Isla Mujeres and Holbox, although that activity is done snorkeling, not with a tank.
Fall: fewer crowds and more flexibility
September, October and November usually have fewer tourists and the water is still warm. It is a good option if your trip is flexible and you can move a dive if the weather changes.
Marine life by season
Marine life is never guaranteed, but these are the times when you are most likely to see certain species:
- Bull sharks: November to March off Playa del Carmen.
- Sea turtles: all year, more often in summer.
- Spotted eagle rays: seen more often in winter, especially in Cozumel.
- Whale sharks: June to September near Isla Mujeres and Holbox, snorkeling only.
- Reef fish, moray eels and rays: all year.
To see which species you can meet on each dive, read our guide to marine life of the Mexican Caribbean.
Weather: hurricanes and nortes
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with its most active stretch between August and October. That does not mean storms all the time, but it is wise to keep a few flexible days.
In winter, “nortes” can arrive: cold fronts with wind that kick up the waves. When conditions are not safe, the Port Authority can close navigation and boat trips are cancelled for the day.
When the port is closed, cenotes are usually the best alternative because they do not depend on sea conditions. Discover our cenote diving.
Tips to plan your dive trip
Decide what you want to see and pick the season based on that priority.
Book ahead in high season and around dates like Easter week.
Leave a free day in case the weather forces you to move a dive.
Ask which wetsuit thickness is best for your month.
Schedule your dives early in the trip and keep your last day dive-free before flying.
If you are not certified yet, any season is a good time to start: check our diving for beginners program and our guide to the best reefs for your experience level.
Already have your travel dates?
Tell us when you are coming and what you would like to see. We will recommend the best dives for that season.
See activitiesThe Riviera Maya offers great diving all year round.
The best time depends on what you are looking for: bull sharks in winter, stable weather in spring, warm water in summer or fewer crowds in fall. Pick your season and let the Caribbean do the rest.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to dive in the Riviera Maya?
You can dive all year. Winter is ideal for bull sharks, spring for stable weather and summer for the warmest water.
When is bull shark season in Playa del Carmen?
Usually November to March, with the most sightings between December and February. Sightings are never guaranteed.
What is the water temperature?
Around 25 °C (77 °F) in the cooler months and close to 29 °C (84 °F) in summer. Ask which wetsuit fits your dates.
Can I dive during hurricane season?
Yes, most days diving runs normally. Just keep some flexible days in case the port closes.
Can cenotes be dived all year?
Yes. Cenotes do not depend on sea conditions and are a great option when the port is closed.