Scuba Diving at Anegados

Diving atAnegados (Mexico)

Anegados delivers an exceptional display of marine activity, drawing experienced divers seeking interactions with diverse ocean dwellers. A bank where shallow areas meet deeper waters, it cultivates a dynamic environment. Expect sightings ranging from bottom-dwelling rays and moray eels to schooling pelagics like jacks and tuna. Its intricate volcanic formations create numerous hiding spots, making every dive a discovery of its extensive underwater life.

Evening condition tracking at Anegados features an air temperature of 26.4°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.96m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.

Dive Site Coordinates

20.6893, -105.6514

Key Dive Site Facts

Max Depth--
Entry Type--
Water Type--
Dive TypesReef

Dive Site Overview

Plunging into Anegados unveils a subaquatic world nestled halfway between the Marietas Islands and El Morro. A rocky bank, rising from the ocean floor, transitions from shallow areas into deeper reaches, characterized by an intricate network of caverns and intriguing rock formations.

Divers explore canyons and formations, navigating depths that can extend to around 25 m (82 ft). Some excursions may even involve descents around 27 m (90 ft) when combined with nearby deeper areas like El Morro. Complex geography creates an ideal sanctuary for a wide array of marine creatures, often found sheltering within the volcanic structures.

Strong currents can sweep through the site, which, coupled with its deeper sections, makes it a compelling dive for experienced individuals. Anegados typically features as the second dive on two-tank excursions, providing a vibrant contrast after deeper explorations. Divers can generally expect extended bottom time within its varied topography.

Best Time to Dive

Anegados generally offers favorable diving conditions for much of the year, although seasonal nuances exist. The cooler, drier months from January through May present a consistent "Good" dive score, with air temperatures pleasantly ranging from 22.9-25.8°C (73-78°F) and minimal rainfall, often less than 0.5 mm per month. This period often aligns with more settled seas, despite wave heights fluctuating around 1.1-1.2 meters. Conversely, the summer and early autumn months, particularly June, August, and October, are rated "Moderate." During these times, air temperatures climb higher, reaching up to 29°C (84°F), and rainfall becomes more noticeable, peaking around 5 mm in September and August. While the site remains diveable, conditions can be more dynamic, with wave heights occasionally increasing to 1.4 meters in October.

Jan: GoodScore: 7/10
Feb: GoodScore: 7/10
Mar: GoodScore: 7/10
Apr: GoodScore: 7/10
May: GoodScore: 7/10
Jun: ModerateScore: 6/10Note: Noticeable current or wind
Jul: GoodScore: 7/10
Aug: ModerateScore: 6/10Note: Noticeable current or wind
Sep: GoodScore: 7/10
Oct: ModerateScore: 6/10Note: Noticeable current or wind
Nov: GoodScore: 7/10
Dec: GoodScore: 7/10
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Excellent
Good
Moderate
Poor
Unsafe

Climate Historical Averages

Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.

Month
Air Temp
Max Waves
Wind Speed
Rain
January24°C1.2m23 km/h0.3 mm
February23°C1.2m23 km/h0.5 mm
March23°C1.2m23 km/h0.0 mm
April23°C1.2m20 km/h0.0 mm
May26°C1.3m21 km/h0.1 mm
June27°C1.3m21 km/h3.5 mm
July29°C1.1m20 km/h4.6 mm
August29°C1.3m20 km/h5.0 mm
September29°C1.2m20 km/h5.4 mm
October29°C1.4m23 km/h4.9 mm
November27°C1.2m21 km/h0.3 mm
December25°C1.2m21 km/h0.4 mm

Dive Experience & Conditions

Anegados presents a submerged labyrinth of an impressive rocky bank, filled with caverns and intricate formations. Beginning at shallower depths, typically around 9 m (30 ft), the site gradually slopes into its deeper sections as divers explore. Conditions here can sometimes pose a significant challenge, with the possibility of strong currents sweeping through the canyons. Such currents demand proficient finning techniques and good buoyancy control. Waters are consistently reported as pleasantly mild, typically supporting comfortable dives despite dynamic conditions. Visibility at Anegados is often excellent, frequently offering far-reaching views of marine life and dramatic volcanic structures. Divers should always be prepared for changing water movement patterns at this site.

Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines

Approaching Anegados requires a clear understanding of its demands, as it's specifically suited for experienced divers. The site's deeper sections and the possibility of strong currents necessitate advanced diving skills. Divers must hold at least an Open Water Certification, though advanced experience is highly recommended due to the site's challenging nature. Always plan your dives carefully and ensure you adhere to safety protocols, including the essential 18-hour no-fly period after your last dive. PADI certified instructors leading excursions to Anegados prioritize safety, especially when navigating these dynamic underwater environments.

Recommended Equipment

No verified equipment items yet.

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Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.

Recommended Dive Suit

Water temperatures at Anegados are currently estimated to be around 27°C (81°F), shaping the overall diving conditions for today. Surface air temperatures are resting at 26°C (80°F).

For the majority of recreational dives here, 2-3mm shorty or light wetsuit should provide suitable protection.

Environmental conditions are expected to remain consistent in the short-term outlook.

Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.

Dive Logistics & Preparation

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Hyperbaric Chamber

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Entry Requirements

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Currency

MXN

Nearest Airports

Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.

✈️Puerto Vallarta International AirportPVR
41 km
✈️Amado Nervo National AirportTPQ
117 km
✈️Playa de Oro International AirportZLO
206 km

Marine Life at Anegados

The underwater landscape of Anegados is a magnet for marine life, with its intricate rocky geography providing an ideal habitat. Divers can often spot bottom dwellers like various rays, including eagle rays, along with moray eels tucked into the crevices. Pelagic species such as jacks and tuna are frequently observed cruising the deeper waters. The rocky walls host corals, sponges, and vibrant nudibranchs, adding color to the volcanic formations. Keep an eye out for nurse sharks, which occasionally take shelter among the rocks.

Dive Centers Near Anegados

Vallarta Undersea

Vallarta Undersea

Mexico42 km away

Unverified 4.8

Frequently Asked Questions

What certification level is required for diving Anegados?

Anegados is primarily suited for experienced divers. While an Open Water Certification is required, advanced diving skills are highly recommended due to potential currents and deeper sections.

What is the maximum depth for diving at Anegados?

Dives at Anegados can reach depths of approximately 25 meters (82 feet). Some excursions may involve descents to around 27 meters (90 feet) in specific areas or when combined with nearby sites.

Are strong currents common at Anegados?

The site can experience strong currents, which is one reason it's recommended for more experienced divers. Conditions vary, but divers should be prepared for dynamic water movement.

What marine life can I expect to see?

Expect to encounter a wide variety of marine life, including eagle rays, moray eels, jacks, tuna, and sometimes nurse sharks. The rocky formations also host corals, sponges, and tropical fish.

Where is Anegados located?

Anegados lies halfway between the Marietas Islands and El Morro, within the outer limits of Banderas Bay, off the Pacific Coast of Mexico.

How long does a typical excursion to Anegados last?

A typical two-tank excursion involving Anegados, often paired with El Morro, generally lasts about 4 hours on the boat, not including transfer time from dive centers.

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