La Paz
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in La Paz, Mexico?
The most popular dive site is Los Islotes, which is famous for its large, permanent colony of playful California sea lions. Divers can get incredibly close to curious pups and adults in a natural setting. This unique and interactive wildlife encounter makes it the top attraction for nearly everyone diving in La Paz, Mexico.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in La Paz, Mexico?
Well-known sites include El Bajo, famous for potential hammerhead schools, and La Reina for giant mantas in season. For less-crowded gems, explore the Fang Ming wreck, an excellent artificial reef, or the C-59 Salvatierra wreck. These sites offer diverse experiences beyond the main attractions in La Paz, Mexico, and are great for repeat visitors.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in La Paz, Mexico?
Water temperature in La Paz, Mexico varies significantly by season. In the winter (December-May), it can be cool, ranging from 65-72°F (18-22°C). During the summer and fall (June-November), the water warms up to a pleasant 80-86°F (27-30°C). The warmest months are typically August and September.
When is the best time to visit La Paz, Mexico?
The best time for diving in La Paz, Mexico is from June to November. During these months, the water is warmest and visibility is at its peak. This period also coincides with the best chances to see whale sharks (starting in October) and giant Pacific manta rays. The winter offers calmer seas but much colder water.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in La Paz, Mexico?
Visibility in La Paz, Mexico is highly seasonal. During the prime season from summer to fall (June-November), you can expect excellent conditions, often exceeding 80 feet (25 meters). In winter and spring, plankton blooms, which attract whale sharks, can reduce visibility to 30-50 feet (10-15 meters) but enrich the marine life.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in La Paz, Mexico?
Yes, La Paz, Mexico is famous for seasonal megafauna. Whale sharks aggregate in the bay from October to April. Giant Pacific manta rays visit sites like La Reina from July to October. Hammerhead sharks are sometimes spotted at the El Bajo seamount, typically from late summer into the fall. Sea lion pupping season is in early summer.
What marine life can I expect to see in La Paz, Mexico?
In La Paz, Mexico, you'll see massive schools of fish, moray eels, sea turtles, various rays, and the famous California sea lions. The area is rich with macro life like nudibranchs and blennies. Seasonal visitors include whale sharks, giant manta rays, and occasionally hammerhead or silky sharks, confirming its status as "The World's Aquarium."
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in La Paz, Mexico?
Your wetsuit choice for La Paz, Mexico depends on the season. A 3mm or 5mm full suit is perfect for the warm summer and fall months (June-Nov). For the colder winter and spring (Dec-May), when water temperatures drop significantly, a 7mm suit or a 5mm with a hood and vest is highly recommended for comfort.
How do I get to La Paz, Mexico?
To reach La Paz, Mexico, fly into Manuel Márquez de León International Airport (LAP), with connections from major Mexican hubs and some US cities. A popular alternative is flying into the larger Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) and taking a scenic 2.5-hour bus or shuttle service north to La Paz.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in La Paz, Mexico?
Both are great options. Shore-based day trips from La Paz, Mexico provide easy access to all the main sites like Los Islotes and local wrecks, offering flexibility. A liveaboard offers a more dive-intensive schedule and can reach more distant sites, but day boats are sufficient for experiencing the area's highlights and are more common here.