Where to stay for "best" dives in Riviera Maya

[jonhall]

Although I only have limited diving experience along Riviera Maya mainland (north Playa, night dive in Playa, cenotes, Puerto Morelos), I really enjoyed Puerto Morelos. They have a protected national marine park and many AI beach resorts. I also dove about 20 miles south of PM (considered Playa) and wasn't impressed. Although the reef runs all along the coast, the Playa area we were in (Oct./Nov. 2016) was lacking in color, sea life, visibility, and diversity. Puerto Morelos (Mar./April 2010) was the opposite and also had a few wrecks. Although I can't say if they are good or bad (I've only dove cenotes near xel ha), there are also cenotes close to PM.

 

[Dogbowl]

OP here...

We ended up choosing The Royal Playa del Carmen. My scuba diving wants were pushed aside in favour of luxury, food, location and price. Oh well...

 

[Milkman670]

Scuba Diving Playa del Carmen | Pro PADI Dive Shop | Mexico Blue Dream is just up the beach a hundred yards, them board in front of mamma mitas, great operator and no chum bull dives.