Dive Sites

Though most of Cozumel Island is surrounded by reefs, the best diving is the southwest side of the island. The Mexican government recognized this and in 1996 created the Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park. Part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest coral reef in the world, 67,133 acres are now protected from fishing or any other collection or disturbance of the reef.

Home to many various creatures, endangered species are making a comeback in the area. With the help of land based groups protecting the breeding beaches, sea turtles are now a common sight. The most plentiful is the Hawksbill, but Green and Loggerhead are also seen in the area.

Queen Conches are now bouncing merrily along the sandy bottom areas. Once endangered by over harvesting, they now only worry about being eaten by eagle rays.

Cozumel is also the only place in the world to find the Splendid Toadfish.