The Ultimate Guide to Scuba Diving in Tulum: Cenotes, Reefs & How to Book

Scuba Diving in Tulum: Best Cenote and Ocean Dive Tours in Mexico

Planning a scuba diving trip to Tulum?

Great idea!

Tulum is one of the best places in Mexico for diving—whether you want to explore the magical cenotes or dive into the Caribbean Sea along the second-largest reef in the world. It offers unforgettable experiences for both beginners and certified divers.

To help you plan the perfect diving trip, we’ve put together this complete guide to scuba diving in Tulum with our friend Marc – a local professional instructor from Green Divers Tulum who knows the area like the back of his hand.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need: why Tulum is such a popular scuba destination, the best cenotes and ocean dive spots, how to choose a trusted dive shop, what to know before your first dive, where to stay, and how to book your diving tour.

So, where are the best places to go scuba diving in Tulum? What should you expect under the water?

Let’s dive in!

1. Why Go Scuba Diving in Tulum?

Scuba diving in Tulum is a unique experience, especially thanks to its incredible network of freshwater cenotes and underwater caverns. These crystal-clear natural pools offer ideal conditions for divers of all levels, including complete beginners.

With dozens of cenotes to explore, you could easily spend your entire trip diving without ever repeating a spot!

2. What Are the Main Types of Diving in Tulum?

Tulum offers two very different but equally fascinating diving experiences: ocean diving on the Caribbean reef and freshwater cenote diving in underwater caverns.

2.1 Ocean Diving

Ocean diving in Tulum takes place along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world.

With warm water, mild currents, and generally predictable weather, it’s an excellent spot for beginners. Expect to see colorful Caribbean reef fish, sea turtles, rays, and sometimes even dolphins or manatees if you’re lucky.

2.2 Cenote Diving

Cenote diving, on the other hand, is a unique experience found almost nowhere else in the world.

These freshwater sinkholes and caverns were formed in part by the Chicxulub meteor impact, which shaped the entire region’s geology. Cenotes offer crystal-clear water, shallow depths, and overhead sunlight from multiple openings — making them safe and accessible for Open Water certified divers.

For those with Advanced Open Water certification, some cenotes feature deeper sinkholes and even more dramatic light effects.

3. Best Cenotes for Diving in Tulum

Tulum is home to some of the most iconic cenotes in Mexico, each offering a unique diving experience. Here are three of the best cenotes to explore — whether you’re just starting out or already an experienced diver.

3.1 Dos Ojos

This is the most famous cenote in Tulum — and for good reason.

The visibility is incredible, the rock formations are stunning, and sunbeams pierce through the crystal-clear water, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.

It’s shallow, spacious, and always within the natural light zone, making it a great choice for all certified divers, even those with limited cavern experience.

3.2 The Pit

Located just a short drive from Dos Ojos and connected to it through an underground system, Cenote El Pit is ideal for Advanced Open Water divers.

It’s deeper, dramatic, and packed with visual highlights: intense sun rays, a halocline (where salt and freshwater meet), and even a mystical-looking sulphur cloud created by decomposing organic material.

3.3 Casa Cenote

Casa Cenote is a favorite for new divers, including those who aren’t certified yet. With a wide open-water area and direct access to the surface, it’s perfect for Discover Scuba experiences.

Certified divers will also enjoy the cavern zones under the mangroves, where you can spot a mix of freshwater and saltwater marine life — and experience the halocline here too.

4. Best Ocean Dive Sites near Tulum

While cenote diving is undoubtedly the main attraction in Tulum, the ocean also offers excellent conditions — particularly for training and beginner-level dives.

Ocean dives in the area typically take place along the nearby reef, just a short boat ride from Casa Cenote. The sites are known for their shallow depth, warm temperatures, and clear visibility, making them ideal for introductory dives and certification training.

One of the most commonly visited spots is Cuevitas (which means “little caves”) — a reef site with small holes and formations that create a safe and engaging environment for new divers.

Although the ocean sites in Tulum are not as dramatic as the cenotes, they remain a valuable part of the local dive experience — especially for those starting their scuba journey.

5. How to Choose a Good Dive Shop or Guide in Tulum?

Choosing the right dive shop in Tulum can make a huge difference in your overall experience — especially in a destination like this, where both cenote diving and ocean diving require local knowledge, good logistics, and proper planning.

Look for dive operators that offer small groups or even private dives with people of similar experience levels. Larger centers often run big tours, which can feel rushed and impersonal — and it’s easy to get lost in the crowd.

Take the time to read reviews, and don’t hesitate to contact the dive shop ahead of time. Most dive shops in Tulum use WhatsApp and are happy to answer questions.

Ideally, try to speak directly with the instructor or guide who will take you diving, rather than a salesperson who’s mainly focused on closing a booking.

A serious and professional dive agency, like us at Green Divers Tulum, will take the time to understand your level, expectations, and comfort zone.

We’ll recommend the best dive sites based on your experience — whether you’re interested in cenote diving, reef training, or something more advanced — and ensure everything is planned in advance. No last-minute improvisation or mismatched groups.

The result: a safer, more enjoyable, and more personalized dive.

6. Practical Tips for Diving in Tulum

Before planning your dives, it’s important to communicate with the dive center in advance.

A good dive operation in Tulum should always ask about your certification level and the last time you went diving — this helps determine the best way to start your trip safely and comfortably.

If you think a refresher course might be useful, don’t hesitate to say so. At Green Divers Tulum, we offer refreshers at Casa Cenote, which is far more enjoyable than a typical swimming pool session.

Once you’re confident in the water, you can continue with a cavern dive in Casa Cenote, and then move on to something like Cenote Car Wash with peace of mind.

Even if you’re certified as an advanced diver, it’s a good idea to start with shallower, easier dives if you haven’t been diving recently — for example, begin with Dos Ojos, and leave deeper dives like The Pit for the following day.

If you plan to dive for several days, bringing your own gear can make a difference. You’ll likely feel more comfortable, and some dive centers offer discounts to divers using their own equipment. If you’re traveling light, just packing your own mask is a smart move — it’s small and makes a big difference in comfort.

7. Do You Need a Certification to Dive in Tulum?

Yes — for most cenote and ocean dives in Tulum, you do need a valid scuba diving certification. Most dive shops accept international certifications like PADI, SSI, or CMAS.

If you’re already certified, you’re good to go for most dives. But some dive sites may require a higher level depending on the difficulty.

For cenote diving: cenotes are part of an underground river system, and many have cavern sections with overhead environments. That means you need at least an Open Water certification to dive in popular cenotes like Dos Ojos or The Pit.

One exception is Casa Cenote, which is open to the surface and perfect for beginners. It’s often used for Discover Scuba Diving experiences if you’re not certified yet.

For ocean diving: with an Open Water certification, you can enjoy most reef dives in the Caribbean Sea near Tulum. But for some specific dives like drift dives or night dives, it’s recommended to have an Advanced certification.

If you’re certified but haven’t dived in a while: booking a refresher dive is highly recommended. It helps you regain confidence and allows your instructor to choose the right dive sites for your level.

8. When Is the Best Time of Year to Dive in Tulum?

One of the best things about diving in Tulum is that cenotes can be explored all year round. Weather conditions have only a minimal impact on visibility or access, and there’s really no bad season to dive — aside from the occasional cloudy day that might reduce the sun rays inside the cenotes.

Each season offers something different:

• Summer (June to August): Fewer tourists, hotter days, and stronger sunlight, which makes for incredible light beams inside the cenotes.
• Rainy season (roughly May to October): Can create beautiful color effects on the water’s surface, as rainwater runoff tints it with shades of green or red — without affecting the dive itself.
• Winter (November to February): Stable weather, comfortable temperatures around 25°C, and consistently good diving conditions.

9. Where to Stay in Tulum for Diving: Town vs Beach

Both the beach zone and Tulum town are good options for divers — it really depends on your travel style and budget.

If you’re staying at the beach, just keep in mind that a short taxi ride to a central meeting point may be needed, depending on the hotel. We’ll coordinate that with you ahead of time.

If you’re staying in town, pickups are usually more straightforward and often included.

Here are my best hotel recommendations in Tulum, for all budgets:

• Mayan Monkey Tulum: an excellent value for money. Nice modern hostel with a good atmosphere, a pool, bar and garden. Including fast wifi, kitchen access, yoga classes, coworking spaces, and bike and motorcycle rentals. Dorms and private rooms starting at only 24 $usd per night.

• Casa Almendro: if you are looking for a little more comfort, you will like this small cheap hotel in the center of Tulum. It’s a green oasis with a rooftop terrace with chairs and hammocks. There are king size beds and breakfast is included, from only 50 $usd per night!

• Diamante K: is a high-end hotel but at a very fair price, which is exceptional in Tulum, especially for a hotel with direct access to the beach in the hotel zone! Bohemian chic atmosphere, including a restaurant, hammocks and beds on the private beach, and a massage service. Bungalows are 207 $usd per night.

• Habitas Tulum: this small eco-friendly hotel with a chic design is ideal for a romantic stay in Tulum. It is a true oasis of peace, hidden among the palm trees, with a magnificent swimming pool and a private beach. There are also yoga classes on the terrace at sunset. From 371 $usd per night!

• Kanan Tulum- Adults Only: this is the ultimate option for a luxury stay in Tulum. It is an ecological hotel for adults only, located on a beautiful private beach with hammocks and beds. With a fantastic rooftop terrace with a bar; the hotel also has an excellent restaurant, great rooms and a very friendly welcome. From 566 $usd per night!

10. How to Book a Dive Tour in Tulum

If you’re thinking about diving in Tulum, it’s a great idea to book in advance — especially during high season, when spots at the most popular cenotes can fill up fast.

Booking directly makes everything easier. It gives you the chance to talk about your level of experience, pick the right dive sites, and get everything planned before you arrive.

That way, no stress, no last-minute changes — just a smooth, personalized dive.

Got questions or ready to book your tour? You can reach out to us here:

• GreenDiversTulum.com
• @greendivers_tulum_mexico on Instagram
• Green Divers Mexico on Facebook

Cheap Flights to Tulum

Until recently, Tulum didn’t have its own airport, and the closest option was Cancun International Airport. Travelers had to fly into Cancun (served by airlines like Iberia, Aeromexico, Interjet, KLM, and others), then take a transfer to Tulum — about a 3-hour drive.

The new Felipe Carrillo Puerto Airport (TQO) in Tulum has started receiving flights and is expected to be fully operational by early 2024.

However, it’s still important to compare flight prices, connections, and availability between Cancun and Tulum, as there are currently fewer direct flights to Tulum. For now, Cancun might still be the most convenient and affordable option for many travelers.

To find the cheapest flights to Tulum or Cancun, I recommend using our flight comparison tool powered by Skyscanner. It guarantees the best price available!

Rent a car in Tulum

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Tulum and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies, so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

You’re traveling in Mexico? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mexico: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico

Riviera Maya: The 35 Epic Things to Do!

• Tulum: 35 Best Things to Do + All My Best Tips!
• Where to Stay in Tulum? The best areas and places to stay
• 1 Day in Tulum – Top Spots in 24 Hours
• 2 Days in Tulum – Exploring Paradise in 48 Hours
• 3 Days in Tulum – The Ideal 72-Hour Itinerary
• Tulum Ruins: Everything you Need to Know for your Visit
• How to Visit Sian Ka’an from Tulum: Best Tours, Entry Points & Tips
• Parque del Jaguar (Tulum): Entrance Fee, Guide & Tips
• Diving in Mexico: the 11 Best Dive Destinations

• Where to Eat in Tulum: The Ultimate Guide to the Top 25 Restaurants!
• Tulum: the 15 Best Cenotes You Can’t Miss!
• Why You Should Visit Cenote Dos Ojos (Tulum)
• The Ultimate Guide to Kaan Luum Lagoon, Tulum’s Best-Kept Secret
• New Tulum Airport (Felipe Carrillo): All You Need to Know

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• Bacalar: The 18 Best Places to Visit
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• Playa del Carmen: Top 30 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions
• Puerto Morelos: Top 14 Things To Do and Attractions
• Isla Contoy (Cancun): Everything You Need to Know For Your Visit

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• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
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• Itinerary: 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
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