Los Islotes

Los Islotes is a pair of small granite islets off Isla Partida near La Paz, Espíritu Santo, with a large, playful colony of California sea lions that is the site's main attraction. Underwater features include granite boulders, tunnels, ledges, coral-encrusted walls and a distinctive natural swim-through arch, producing an "aquarium"-like diving experience. Access is by dive boat with entries from a moored boat into clear blue water. Typical depths are shallow, often 8 to 15 m, with deeper drop-offs to about 30 m on the north side; visibility is usually good, often 20 m or more, and currents are usually light. Water temperature averages about 20°C so exposure protection is recommended. The site is divided into a shallow southern basin where sea lion pups often play and a northern slope with steep walls. Hazards are mainly related to the resident sea lions: large territorial adult males, especially during the May breeding season, should be given a wide margin, and divers should not approach or touch the animals or the islands and should follow guides' instructions.