Cozumel
For those in the Western US, Cozumel is an inexpensive place to find warm, relatively clear water, colorful reefs, and a good range of topography. Coming from Northern California where local water temperature commonly falls in the 49-53 degree range, finding warm water for cheap is a bonus.
The dive sites tend to fall into two categories, wall dives with or without swim throughs (75-100 feet deep) and the shallower reefs perfect for second dives that also have nice topography with channels, swim throughs and tunnels but at shallower depths with more color and light. The wall dives have nice sponges, corals and great color (provided you bring a dive light).
Cozumel offers nice diving at affordable prices. The Island is not pristine however as a large number of cruise ships arrive in Cozumel (many are docked at any given time) and the restaurants are largely filled with American dive tourists.
For “bang for the buck” though and beautiful warm diving, Cozumel is a good choice.
When to go
Diving is pleasant in Cozumel year round, though the winter months are most popular as “snowbirds” try to escape cold water in Canada and the Northern US.
Where to stay
There are many dedicated dive resorts on the island.
Most recently, friends and I used Scuba Club Cozumel. They offer very affordable lodging with food packages. The dive resort is not fancy by any means but offers clean rooms, decent food and great prices.
