Dive Sites: North Cortez Coast
Scuba diving and snorkeling are not common activities in the Northern Gulf, owing to the large tidal fluctuations and generally sandy bottoms. This area possesses the second highest tidal fluctuation in the world after the Bay of Fundy in Canada. With a vertical tidal variation of over 30 feet, tremendous amounts of land may be exposed and covered again in a given day.
However, some diving is available at Bahia de Los Angeles, which is considered one of the most beautiful bays in Mexico. The 20-plus offshore islands are part of the Islas del Golfo de California Protected Area and are known as the "Galapagos of the North" for their unique species, some of which are found nowhere else on earth. Just as impressive are the surrounding seas, which are home to the highest concentration of marine mammals in the Gulf of California. Over seven species of whales, two species of dolphins, and one of the largest colonies of sea lions in the Gulf call the Midriff Islands their home.
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Rapture Rock (15' to 130')
is a dramatic wall, plastered in yellow-polyp black coral, which drops off the seaward side of an isolated rock pinnacle. This is a great chance to see schooling fish like Mexican barracuda, as well as large black sea bass and turtles but there's the potential for strong currents. Advanced.
Baruni's Canyons (30' to 130')
is a series of pinnacles, covered in gorgonians and other invertebrate life, that rise out of very deep water. Good place to see large grouper. Advanced.
Vensipuedes (15' to 130')
You will understand the significance of the name, "Come if You Can," once you sample this big drop-off. This is a lengthy drift dive among many caves and swim-throughs. Currents. Not advisable during periods or days of high tidal exchange. This is a must-do for the expert diver if conditions permit.
El Jardín de Janique (15' to 70')
is a large reef just offshore that provides excellent habitat for fish and invertebrate life. There are many nooks and crannies to explore. Intermediate.
Submerged seamounts create excellent habitat for tropical fish. A good location for spotting eels, octopus, and schooling fish like yellowtail jacks, this site is also an excellent place to spot frogfish. Intermediate.
La Vida Alta (15' to 70')
is a maze of narrow passages among large boulders that makes an excellent site for a night dive. An excellent day dive as well, this site hosts a wealth of invertebrate life and is a good spot for seeing sea turtles. Beginner to intermediate.
Labertino de Ricardo (5' to 50')
is a large underwater rock island that’s covered in a wide variety of multi-hued gorgonians. This is an excellent site for tropical fish. Beginner.
El Jardín de Luz María (5' to 50')
is a series of rock fins just offshore that provide an excellent habitat for tropical fish and invertebrate life and offer a diversity of marine life. Beginner.
Punta Pescador (5' to 40')
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