Small-group certified dives off the Marietas Islands put you on volcanic ledges, coral pockets and schools of tropical fish. Two guided dives, a surface stop in protected waters and return to Sayulita for lunch make this a compact half-day marine adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push off from Sayulita before sunrise, the boat cutting a bright trail toward the low, rocky silhouettes of the Marietas Islands. Salt spray and a steady swell set the tempo as the guide runs through the dive plan; by the time you clip in, the islands loom — basalt ledges, submerged pinnacles and clear blue water that seems to dare you to explore deeper.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness; you should be comfortable swimming and performing basic dive safety tasks.
Wildlife
History
Islas Marietas were declared a protected national park in the 2000s to conserve seabird colonies and recovering marine habitats; the archipelago’s shapes are the result of ancient volcanic activity and long coastal erosion.
Conservation
Operators follow park rules limiting access and anchoring; use reef-safe products, avoid touching marine life, and dispose of waste onshore to protect fragile reef habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Marietas Islands National Park Excursion for Certified Divers today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring certification and logbook
You must show proof of open water certification and it helps to have your logbook handy so guides can plan appropriate dive profiles.
Hydrate and eat light
Drink fluids before you board and have a light breakfast—diving on a full stomach or dehydrated increases the risk of seasickness and fatigue.
Check no-fly timing
Avoid air travel for at least 24 hours after diving to reduce decompression risk—plan flights accordingly.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before arriving to protect marine life and avoid contaminating dive sites.
Dive certification card & logbook
Required proof of training and helpful for guides to assess experience.
Shorty or 3mm wetsuit
Protects against cool thermoclines and abrasions on rocky entries.
winter
Dive computer
Helps track no-decompression limits and ascent information during the two dives.
Reef-safe sunscreen and hat
Protects you on-deck without harming coral and fish life.
summer