Every year, between November and March, Playa del Carmen becomes a prime spot to observe bull sharks up close. These pregnant females gather in the region’s warm, shallow waters.
This natural phenomenon attracts divers from around the world, eager to experience a rare, cage-free, and safe encounter. The sharks’ behavior is calm, almost curious. They move slowly just a few meters above the seabed, sometimes less than two meters from the divers.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about this often misunderstood species.
Why come to Playa del Carmen to dive with bull sharks ?
Playa del Carmen is one of the few places in the world where you can see bull sharks up close in their natural habitat, without a cage and in complete safety, just minutes from the shore.
It is a unique experience, ranked among the best places in the world to observe this species. Every year, it attracts passionate divers looking for adrenaline and intense sensations.
What makes this dive even more special is the consistent presence of the sharks during a specific time of year. The females gather in the warm waters of Playa del Carmen as they wait for the moment their pups are ready to be born.
This means that almost every dive offers an impressive encounter, with several sharks swimming freely just a few meters from the divers.
What is the best time to see bull sharks in Playa del Carmen ?
The best time to see bull sharks in Playa del Carmen is generally from mid-November to mid-February, with peak sightings between December and January.
As mentioned earlier, it is during this season that female bull sharks migrate to the area to rest and give birth, likely in the mangroves, although the exact location remains unknown. Their frequent and consistent presence offshore is therefore almost guaranteed.
Where can you see bull sharks in Mexico ?
Bull sharks can be seen throughout the region, from Cancún down to the south of Tulum.
Their main gathering spot is located offshore from Playa del Carmen, at a depth of 24 meters, and is known as “Shark Point”.
“Shark Point” is the main gathering spot for bull sharks in the region. This site has also become strategic due to the supervised feeding practices carried out by dive centers, which encourage their regular presence.
In addition to being an iconic diving location, Shark Point plays a key role in scientific research. Researchers observe shark behavior, track their movements, and identify individuals that return each season, making this site a true open-air laboratory.
It’s important to note that this site does not alter their natural behavior. Bull sharks only come here during their gestation period. Once they have given birth, they leave on their own. Nothing is done to try to make them stay.
Is it dangerous to dive with bull sharks in Playa del Carmen ?
No, because despite the bull shark’s sometimes aggressive reputation, no attacks on divers have been reported in Playa del Carmen during these dives.
It’s important to know that during this period, they come to Playa del Carmen in a “resting” state. They are not hunting and do not eat (except at the feeding site, where food is easily accessible), as they are tired from gestation.
Thanks to the calm sea conditions, these sharks have time to see us, analyze us, and understand that we are not prey. However, it is essential to follow strict guidelines when observing them.
How does bull shark diving work in Playa del Carmen ?
During the dive, the approach always comes from the sharks themselves. Divers must remain calm, usually kneeling or lying down depending on the current.
The experience takes place in controlled conditions, ensuring the safety of the divers. The local instructors, highly experienced in this type of dive, know exactly how to manage the situation to allow for an authentic and respectful observation of the sharks in their environment.
What certification level is required to dive with bull sharks ?
To dive with bull sharks, you need at least an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent, as the dive takes place at a depth of 24 to 27m and can involve challenging conditions, such as strong currents and the need for good stability underwater.
It is therefore recommended to have at least an Advanced Open Water level to fully and safely enjoy this exceptional diving experience.
How much does a bull shark dive cost in Playa del Carmen ?
A bull shark dive in Playa del Carmen typically costs around 3 200 Mexican pesos, or approximately 170 USD, for an outing that includes two dives, one at the “Shark Point” site with the sharks and another on a nearby reef, with equipment included.
The bull shark dive lasts about 25 to 35 minutes, and the second dive between 40 and 60 minutes.