Cabo is a unique diving destination because it’s in the middle of a transition zone between tropical and temperate waters. Strikingly large fish such as amberjack, hammerheads, and manta rays—which are partial to temperate waters—mix with the smaller, more colorful species typical of tropical waters.

It’s also unique in that some of the best snorkeling and scuba sites are only a 5- to 25-minute boat ride from the marina (compared to boat rides of 1–2 hours to the islands off La Paz).

Guided scuba dives tour many of the same sites as snorkelers, making it convenient to accommodate mixed groups (but also making it more crowded, both above and below the surface). Also, given the proximity of these dive sites to the harbor, the loud and constant rumble of boat traffic overhead makes for an annoying distraction.

Equipment

Most dive shops rent snorkel and dive equipment in packages or à la carte, so if you forget your fins or your mask strap breaks, you’ll be able to borrow a replacement for the day.

Repairs are a different story, however. If you’re bringing your own gear, have it serviced before you leave home; check your computer batteries, and bring spare parts. Despite the number of dive shops, replacement parts are difficult, if not impossible, to come by in Baja.

Clinica de Especialidades (Lopez Mateos btw Morelos/Vicario, tel. 624/143-3914 or 143-2919) maintains a hyperbaric recompression chamber that is available to recreational divers for emergencies.