Los Arcos National Marine Park: The Complete Dive Guide
- Sebastian Briones
- Jul 3
- 3 min read
Reading time: 5 minutes
Why is Los Arcos the most famous dive site in Puerto Vallarta?
If there's one dive site that defines scuba diving in Banderas Bay, it's Los Arcos National Marine Park.
Located just south of Puerto Vallarta, this protected marine sanctuary is famous for its volcanic rock formations, underwater caves, dramatic walls and abundant marine life. It's also one of the most versatile dive sites in the region, offering unforgettable experiences for both first-time divers and experienced underwater photographers.
Whether you're visiting Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita or Riviera Nayarit, Los Arcos is often the first dive site visitors fall in love with.
What makes Los Arcos unique?
Unlike coral reefs found in the Caribbean, Los Arcos was shaped by volcanic activity.
Massive rock formations rise from the ocean, creating underwater canyons, swim-throughs, tunnels and walls that provide shelter for hundreds of marine species.
Every dive reveals something different, making it a destination divers return to again and again.
Dive Site Overview
Feature | Information |
Location | South of Puerto Vallarta, Banderas Bay |
Dive Level | Beginner to Advanced |
Average Depth | 10–20 m (33–66 ft) |
Maximum Depth | 30 m (98 ft) |
Visibility | 10–25 m (33–82 ft) |
Water Temperature | 22–30°C (72–86°F) |
Boat Access | Yes |
What marine life can you see?
Los Arcos is one of the richest marine habitats in Banderas Bay.
Depending on the season, divers commonly encounter:
🐢 Green sea turtles
🐙 Octopus
🐍 Moray eels
🦅 Eagle rays
🦞 Lobsters
🐠 Angelfish, butterflyfish and pufferfish
🐡 Schools of tropical reef fish
Lucky divers may also spot giant Pacific manta rays during the right season.
Is Los Arcos suitable for beginners?
Yes.
Los Arcos offers several dive routes with calm conditions that are ideal for:
Discover Scuba Diving
PADI Open Water students
Recently certified divers
Underwater photographers
More experienced divers can explore deeper walls, caverns and swim-throughs located throughout the marine park.
This flexibility makes Los Arcos one of the most popular dive sites on Mexico's Pacific
coast.
Why is Los Arcos protected?
Los Arcos is part of a protected marine area established to preserve its unique ecosystem.
Responsible diving helps protect marine life and ensures future generations can continue enjoying this extraordinary underwater environment.
Visitors are encouraged to maintain good buoyancy, avoid touching marine life and follow their instructor's guidance throughout the dive.
Best time to dive Los Arcos
Los Arcos can be dived throughout the year.
November to May
Cooler water
Better visibility
Humpback whale season
June to October
Warmer water
Calm seas
Excellent marine life activity
Every season offers different underwater experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Los Arcos?
Los Arcos National Marine Park is located just south of Puerto Vallarta in Banderas Bay.
Do I need to be certified?
No. Beginners can experience Los Arcos through a Discover Scuba Diving program with a certified PADI instructor.
How deep is Los Arcos?
Most recreational dives take place between 10 and 20 meters, with deeper areas reaching approximately 30 meters.
What animals can I see?
Sea turtles, octopus, moray eels, eagle rays, lobsters and hundreds of tropical reef fish are common sightings throughout the year.
Is Los Arcos good for underwater photography?
Absolutely. Its volcanic formations, caves and abundant marine life make it one of the best underwater photography locations in Banderas Bay.
Continue Exploring
➡️ Best Scuba Diving in Puerto Vallarta
➡️ Is There Scuba Diving in Sayulita?
➡️ Marietas Islands Dive Guide
➡️ Best Time to Dive in Puerto Vallarta
Ready to Dive Los Arcos?
Los Arcos is more than just a dive site—it's one of the underwater icons of Mexico's Pacific coast.
Join Oceano Adventure and explore this extraordinary marine park with small groups, experienced local guides and personalized service from one of Sayulita's most established PADI Dive Centers.
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