Why Cancun Is a Great Location for New Scuba Divers August 3, 2025 By Roxie Bastida If you’ve ever thought about trying scuba diving but felt unsure where to start, let me make this easy for you—go to Cancun. Cancun is hands down one of the best places in the world for beginner scuba divers. The conditions are ideal, the prices are reasonable, and the marine life is beautiful and accessible. But it’s not just about the location. It’s about the experience—and that’s something I’ve gotten to know really well. I’ve been diving in Cancun about a dozen times now. It’s where I took some of my very first dives and where I keep coming back to every chance I get. And every single time, I dive with Best Dive Cancun, an independent, small dive company that has earned my full trust. So if you’re thinking about taking the plunge into scuba diving, here’s exactly why Cancun should be your first stop—and what makes it such an amazing place to start. The Conditions Are Practically Made for Beginners Cancun makes it easy to fall in love with diving. Warm water year-round (78°F to 84°F) Excellent visibility, often between 50–100 feet Minimal currents, especially at beginner sites These conditions help new divers feel more comfortable and less overwhelmed. You’re not dealing with cold temperatures or fighting strong waves—you’re just floating, breathing, and enjoying the view. Beginner-Friendly Dive Sites Are Close and Easy Most of Cancun’s beginner dive spots are: Shallow: 30 – 50 feet deep Vibrant: Full of coral, fish, and turtles Accessible: Just a short boat ride from shore Popular sites include: Manchones Reef Punta Nizuc MUSA – The Underwater Museum of Art You’re typically in the water within 20–30 minutes of leaving the dock. That means less time commuting, more time diving. It’s Affordable to Get Started Scuba diving in Cancun is surprisingly affordable compared to many other destinations. Typical costs: Discover Scuba Dive (no certification needed): Typically around $110–$160 USD Open Water Certification (PADI): Typically around $450–$500 USD Most packages include instruction, gear, boat rides, and dive time. Wildlife Encounters Are Incredible (Even in Shallow Water) Even if you’re only diving 20 or 30 feet down, you can still see: Sea turtles Colorful reef fish Lobsters Nurse sharks Coral gardens Rays and eels You don’t have to go deep to experience the magic. Cancun’s marine life shows up for beginners, too. Cancun Is Easy to Get To Cancun International Airport is only about 25-30 minutes from the Hotel Zone, with tons of affordable flights from the U.S. and Canada. You can: Fly in on a Friday Try scuba on Saturday Be exploring reefs by Sunday morning Most dive shops offer hotel pickup, and many instructors speak English fluently, making logistics super simple. MUSA Is a Must-See for New Divers One of Cancun’s most unique experiences is the Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA)—an underwater museum filled with over 500 life-sized sculptures. It’s shallow, calm, and incredibly photogenic. Sculptures of people, homes, and animals sit silently on the seafloor, slowly becoming part of the reef system. You won’t find anything like it anywhere else. I Only Dive with Best Dive Cancun (And Here’s Why) “It’s run by an independent instructor with 37 years of diving experience and 29 years as a certified instructor—thorough, safety-focused, and highly respected.” Thorough equipment safety checks Detailed pre-dive briefings Fluent English speaker Patient with new divers Respects wildlife and reef preservation Keeps groups small for better safety and focus If you’re nervous, this is exactly the kind of guide you want by your side. I never feel rushed or pressured and every dive starts with a clear dive plan so I know exactly what to expect. That peace of mind makes all the difference. Book Here Final Tips Before You Dive ✔️ Choose a reputable dive shop (read reviews!)✔️ Don’t be afraid to ask questions—good instructors welcome it✔️ Bring reef-safe sunscreen or wear a rash guard✔️ Avoid drinking alcohol the night before✔️ Relax. You don’t have to be perfect. Just breathe.
Mexico Travel Guide 2025
Explore Mexico with our 2025 travel guide. Get expert tips on safety, transportation, currency, and must-see destinations.
Discover Charco Prieto Waterfall: Puerto Rico’s Best Hidden Adventure
Looking for an adventure off the beaten path near San Juan? Charco Prieto Waterfall is a true hidden gem tucked in the hills of Bayamón, just 40 minutes from the city but a world away from the crowds. This short but rugged hike takes you through lush rainforest, over rocky creek crossings, and up muddy, steep trails—rewarding you at the end with a breathtaking 130-foot waterfall cascading into a peaceful jungle pool. If you want a slice of wild Puerto Rico beyond the beach resorts, bring your sturdy shoes and your sense of adventure—Charco Prieto is waiting!
How To See The “Ven A la Luz” Sculpture In Tulum
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Xcaret: Is It Worth The Cost?
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Tulum Ruins
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Canun Interactive Aquarium
Looking for a fun, family-friendly activity in Cancún that won’t break the budget? The Interactive Aquarium at La Isla Shopping Village is a perfect option—especially for a rainy day or a break from the beach. With touch tanks, marine life exhibits, dolphin shows, and affordable combo tickets, it’s an easy and entertaining way to spend a few hours with kids.
Casa Tortuga Cenotes
From swimming through eerie, echoing cave cenotes to relaxing in sunlit pools, Casa Tortuga gave us a full cenote experience for a fraction of the cost of other parks.
A Day at Chichén Itzá
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Free Things to do in Puerto Rico
Narrow and Winding Roads on the Drive to Charco Prieto Waterfall Hike. 8 Free Things You Can Do In Puerto Rico Puerto Rico offers an ideal Caribbean vacation for US citizens since no passport is required, featuring beautiful beaches, the El Yunque rainforest, historic Old San Juan, and year-round tropical weather in the 70s-80s°F. The island combines US convenience (English widely spoken, US dollar used) with rich Latin culture, excellent local cuisine, and diverse activities from beach relaxation to adventure hiking. Best of all – You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy this amazing destination- here’s your guide to some of the island’s best free or affordable adventures. Charco Prieto 130′ Waterfall Hike to Charco Prieto Waterfall Tucked away in Bayamón, Charco Prieto is a hidden gem perfect for adventure seekers. The drive there includes some narrow, winding roads—so take your time—but the lush scenery along the way is stunning. It is approximately 20 miles from San Juan (40 min drive.) The one-mile trail to the falls is moderately challenging, with rocky terrain and a few steep, muddy sections. Thankfully, previous hikers have tied ropes to nearby trees to help navigate the tougher spots. At the end, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking, multi-tiered waterfall hidden deep in the forest. You can find directions, trail reviews, and tips on the AllTrails app. This place is well worth the trip if you are up for adventure and a little challenge. 400 Year Old Ceiba Tree Located in Patillas, Puerto Rico Visit the Ceiba Atabey Tree in Patillas Estimated to be over 400 years old, the Ceiba Atabey tree in Patillas is one of Puerto Rico’s most sacred natural landmarks. Towering and awe-inspiring, this ancient ceiba tree holds deep spiritual significance and offers a serene stop for anyone looking to connect with the island’s rich natural and cultural history. Nestled in the quiet community of Muñoz Rivera in Patillas, the tree is located on the southeastern coast of the island. From San Juan, it’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive (roughly 60 miles), and just over an hour from Ponce. To reach it, take PR-3 toward Patillas, then turn onto Route 181 and follow it until you reach Road 7759. The tree is located just off the side of this small, paved road—shortly after crossing a small bridge. Be cautious, as there’s no formal parking area, and cars may need to park along the road. While the site isn’t heavily marked, it’s well known by locals, who are often happy to offer directions. Visiting is free, and the peaceful, almost mystical surroundings combined with the ceiba’s massive, gnarled roots and towering branches make this a hidden gem well worth the detour. Tribute to Bad Bunny Experience La Placita de Santurce By day, La Placita serves as a lively local market. By night, it comes alive with music, dancing, and vibrant energy. With open-air venues offering live salsa, reggaetón, and Afro-Caribbean beats, it’s a must-visit for nightlife lovers. And best of all, there’s no charge just to walk around and take it all in. Cueva Del Indio Explore Cueva del Indio Located in Arecibo, Cueva del Indio combines natural beauty with cultural heritage. Dramatic ocean views, rugged cliffs, and ancient Taíno petroglyphs make it a fascinating stop. Parking along PR-681 allows for free access with a short walk, while the private lot closer to the entrance charges around $10 per person. View Along the Hike to Mount Britton Tower in El Yunque National Forest Wander El Yunque National Forest El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, offering lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Most hiking trails are free to explore, while the El Portal Visitor Center costs $8 per adult (kids under 15 enter free). It’s a must-see for nature lovers visiting Puerto Rico. Located near the town of Río Grande, El Yunque is about a 45-minute drive (32 miles) from San Juan via PR-66 and PR-191. From Ponce, it takes roughly 1 hour and 50 minutes (about 94 miles), and from Mayagüez, it’s around 2 hours and 40 minutes (136 miles). Use GPS to navigate directly to the El Portal Visitor Center, but be aware that rideshare services like Uber do not operate within the forest—so renting a car or booking a guided tour is recommended. With frequent rainfall year-round, it’s wise to bring rain gear and wear sturdy footwear. The park also features restrooms, picnic areas, and educational exhibits at the visitor center, making it a well-rounded and enriching stop for all ages. Mural in La Placita de Santurce Discover Street Art in Santurce Santurce is a canvas of bold, expressive murals that tell stories of Puerto Rico’s identity, struggles, and pride. It’s completely free to explore on foot, making it a colorful and culturally rich activity for travelers interested in photography, art, or just soaking in the local flavor. Catedral de San Juan Bautista Visit the 500 year old Catedral de San Juan Bautista Located in the heart of Old San Juan, the Catedral de San Juan Bautista is one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas, dating back to 1521. Its striking Gothic architecture and peaceful interior offer a glimpse into the island’s colonial past. Entry is free, though small donations are appreciated to help preserve this historic landmark. Castillo San Felipe Del Morro Stroll Around Castillo San Felipe Del Morro While entry to this iconic 16th-century Spanish fortress requires a fee (approx $10 USD), walking the scenic grounds outside is free. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the green spaces surrounding El Morro are perfect for a relaxing picnic or kite flying with postcard-worthy views. Final Thoughts Puerto Rico truly has it all—lush landscapes, historic charm, soulful music, and a deep cultural heartbeat. Best of all, many of its most memorable experiences are completely free or very low-cost. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, admiring street murals, or standing beneath a centuries-old cathedral or tree, this island invites you to live in