Join Dolphin Scuba Center as we dive from the M/V Valentina in the Sea of Cortez! The Sea of Cortez is a World Heritage site and is the only place in the whole world where you can swim with and have physical contact with California Sea Lions. The Sea of Cortez is a special place situated between Baja, Mexico and the mainland. Water of all shades of blue sits against an arid desert backdrop and an assortment of islands. The Baja Peninsula is home to unique flora and fauna that have evolved in near isolation, so it's no surprise that the Sea of Cortez diving features magnificent marine life.

Huge schools of sardines also call the Sea of Cortez home; passing through a wall of sardines is just spectacular! The most popular diving point, “El Bajo” is usually popular with the scuba divers aiming to see a school of hammerhead sharks. You may be able to finish up your trip finning with whale sharks in the La Paz Bay.

Sailing through the Sea of Cortez on the M/V Valentina liveaboard is a unique experience for diving and nature enthusiasts. This stunning area is rich in marine biodiversity, offering a wide variety of pelagic species and vibrant coral reefs that will undoubtedly leave you breathless. Known as the “Aquarium of the World,” the Sea of Cortez has one of the highest concentrations of marine life on the planet, making it an unparalleled diving destination. You will have the opportunity to explore the crystal-clear waters of the Sea of Cortez and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding nature. Get ready for an exciting adventure and an unforgettable diving experience in this spectacular place. 

Los Islotes

This is where we get to dive with sea lions! The large rock that breaches the surface of the sea is where a colony of over 400 sea lions live. In addition to sea lions, you can also expect to see different species of fish that are endemic to the area. At the south side of the rock, you can find Giant Blue Spotted Jawfish on the sandy bottom 46-60ft down poking their expressive faces just above the sandy surface. Mobula Rays are known to glide by this area as well. 

Punta Lobo

Experience leaping Mobula Rays at Punta Lobo! Groups of 20 are common and visible in many areas. The Mobula season starts in July. During September and October, all these Mobula groups congregate together. They can number in the thousands! During the Mobula season, when you go off shore from the entry point, you can see them packed from surface to bottom with very little space between each individual Mobula Ray.

Whale Island

This distinct island got its name from its whale-like shape! On the southwest side of the island there is a shipwreck, and caves weave their way to the north side. You can see many sea fans inside the caves. After exploring the web of caves, illuminating the darkness with your flashlight, the Sea of Cortez welcomes you with its bright and warm waters filled with angel fish in a mosaic of life and color.

La Paz Bay

Recently, La Paz Bay has become a reliable spot to find whale sharks!

Swannee Reef

This isolated reef is a fish paradise! You cannot see anything but a multitude of Mexican goatfish and Spot Tail Grunt fish. Keeping tabs of your buddy may be an extra chore at Swannee Reef because of the density of fish. As a famous macro photography site, you can also see Signal Blennies. These alert and shy fish tend to flare their dorsal fin three times in quick succession before darting back into their holey homes. Don’t miss this photo opportunity! You can also see schools of Skipjacks and Barracudas with sea lions sometimes bursting onto the scene.

Fang Ming Wreck

The Fang Ming was a Chinese cargo ship seized by the Mexican navy in 1995; it was the first artificial reef to be intentionally sunk in Latin America. Wildlife encounters include semi-tropical pacific species like octopuses, lobsters, eagle rays, mantas, eels, parrotfish, angelfish, tuna, sea lions and possible hammerheads.

Visiting Espiritu Santo Island is the opportunity to experience the authenticity of the region. A desert landscape, mixed with paradisiacal beaches, make this place look like an authentic oasis.  Enjoy the tranquility and serenity of its landscapes as its white sandy beaches, majestic cliffs and crystal-clear waters leave you in awe. Prepare to explore impressive rock formations and marvel at the abundant biodiversity that inhabits the island.

For all travelers joining us on international dive trips we recommend DiveAssure for dive accident insurance and travel insurance. Dive accident insurance can protect you in the event of a dive-related injury and is strongly recommended for all of our guests. Travel insurance can protect you in the event of an unexpected trip cancellation or trip interruption and can also cover lost or damaged luggage expenses, unexpected itinerary changes, and more. 

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