Cenotes for Beginners
Your First Cenote Diving Experience in Mexico
Just got your Open Water certification? These cenotes offer easy entries, shallow depths, and incredible visibility for your first cenote dive. Crystal clear water, no currents, and comfortable depths make these cenotes ideal for building confidence.
Watch VideoPerfect First Dives
If you've just completed your Open Water certification and want to experience the magic of cenote diving, you're in the right place. Mexico's Riviera Maya offers several cenotes that are perfect for new divers: easy entries, shallow depths, no currents, and visibility that often exceeds 30 meters.
Before your first cenote dive, review our certification requirements and check out our beginner-friendly packages.
Best Cenotes for Beginners
Our Top Recommendations for New Divers
Dos Ojos Cenote
Dive in the crystal clear water of Dos Ojos, considered among the best cenotes in the Riviera Maya.
- Max depth: 10m / 32ft
- Crystal clear visibility (100m+)
- Beautiful stalactites
- Two routes to explore
OW Certification | Min age: 15
Chac Mool
Dive in a huge cavern full of stalactites, stalagmites and visual effects where fresh and salt water mix.
- Max depth: 12m / 39ft
- Halocline effects
- Stunning formations
- Easy entry
OW Certification | Min age: 15
Tajmaha & Jardín del Edén
Enjoy stalactites, visual effects with natural light, and the blurry reaction of mixing salt water with fresh water.
- Max depth: 14m / 46ft
- Natural light effects
- Halocline experience
- Beautiful scenery
OW Certification | Min age: 15
Casa Cenote
A unique open-air cenote surrounded by mangroves. Perfect for those who prefer open water environments.
- Max depth: 8m
- Open water - no overhead
- Mangrove scenery
- Wildlife encounters
OW Certification | Min age: 15
Tips for Your First Cenote Dive
Cenote diving is safe and magical when you follow proper guidelines and stay with your experienced guide throughout the dive.
Before the Dive
- Buoyancy practice: Cenotes require precise buoyancy to protect formations
- Equalization: Practice before; fresh water requires more frequent equalizing
- Thermal protection: Water is 24-26°C year-round; a 3mm wetsuit is recommended
- Light discipline: Your guide will brief you on light signals
During the Dive
- Stay with your guide: Never enter cavern zones without proper training
- Watch your fins: Avoid silting the bottom
- Respect formations: Never touch stalactites or stalagmites
- Enjoy the experience: Cenote diving is unique - take it all in!
Learn more about what makes cenotes special and explore all our best cenotes in the Riviera Maya.
Ready for Your First Cenote Dive?
Our experienced guides specialize in making your first cenote dive unforgettable. Small groups (max 4 divers) ensure personalized attention.
