Crystal Bay

Crystal Bay is renowned for crystal-clear water and for regular sightings of the oceanic sunfish (Mola mola) during the July–October upwelling season. The site centers on a rocky islet with a shallow coral plateau on one side and a steep drop-off on the other, featuring hard and soft corals, pinnacles, sandy channels and a small underwater cave where bats roost. Typical dives start on the protected shallow plateau (a few meters) then descend along coral bumps and ridges into a white sandy channel and on to deeper terraces and canyons; an alternate route circles the rock toward the outer wall. Depths range from a few meters on the plateau to about 30–40 m at the furthest drop-offs, with guides commonly reporting maximums around 30 m. Visibility is generally excellent, often 20–30 m or more. Strong lateral and vertical currents, thermoclines and downward surges near rock corners are typical, and cold nutrient-rich water can reach about 15 °C during the season. Entry is by boat, and because of the deeper sections and powerful currents dives are usually led by experienced guides, though the calm shallow portion is accessible to Open Water divers. Hazards include powerful unpredictable currents, strong surge around rocks and unusually cold water during the season.