In short
- Depths range from 9 meters (30 ft) to 480 meters (1,500 ft).
- El Bajo provides shallow dives for beginners.
- Devil's Canyon features steep drop-offs for advanced divers.
In this article
Los Arcos National Marine Park is an active dive location in Banderas Bay. The varying los arcos scuba diving depths accommodate newly certified beginners and experienced divers looking for dramatic wall dives.
How deep is the water at Los Arcos Marine Park?
Depths start at 9 meters (30 ft) and plunge to over 480 meters (1,500 ft).
The underwater topography shifts quickly. Shallow reefs surround the granite islets, keeping depths manageable for newer divers. Further out, trench walls drop straight down into the bay.
What makes Devil's Canyon an advanced dive?
Devil's Canyon features a severe vertical drop-off reaching depths of over 480 meters (1,500 ft).
You need an advanced certification to dive the deeper sections of this trench. The site is known for its steep walls and dark drop-offs right beside Roca del Diablo.
Are there beginner-friendly dive sites at Los Arcos?
Yes, El Bajo and The Aquarium offer calm waters and depths starting at 9 meters (30 ft).
El Bajo features clear, shallow waters where divers often see moray eels and manta rays. The Aquarium provides a sheltered area packed with sergeant majors and parrotfish.
What kind of marine life is at Los Arcos?
Divers spot sea turtles, manta rays, moray eels, and diverse tropical fish.
The park has protected these waters since 1984. You will find dense populations of reef fish around the shallower rocks. Pelagic species occasionally pass through the deeper canyons.
What rules apply to scuba divers at the marine park?
Divers must pay a conservation fee, avoid touching coral, and leave all marine life untouched.
- Pay the mandatory conservation fee.
- Do not touch, stand on, or kick the reefs.
- Never remove any flora or fauna.
- Maintain a respectful distance from sea turtles and manta rays.
When is the best time to dive?
November to May offers the calmest waters and peak marine life visibility.
The park remains open for diving year-round. However, winter and spring provide the best underwater conditions in Banderas Bay.
Questions travellers ask
Are there sharks at Los Arcos Marine Park?
The park data does not list sharks as a primary attraction. Divers typically see sea turtles, manta rays, moray eels, and tropical fish.
Can you visit Los Arcos Puerto Vallarta without a tour?
Yes. While certified divers usually join a tour for equipment and guides, you can hire a private water taxi from Mismaloya beach.
How far is Los Arcos from downtown Puerto Vallarta?
The marine park is located 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) south of downtown Puerto Vallarta in Banderas Bay.
