Frequently Asked Questions
Diving Conditions & Seasons
What is the best time of year to dive in San José del Cabo?
The diving is interesting all year round, with cooler waters bringing in different marine life in the winter months. That said, many say that the best diving conditions in San José del Cabo are from June to November, when water temperatures are warm, visibility is high, and marine life is most active.
How clear is the water for diving around San José del Cabo?
Water visibility can range from 40 to over 100 feet depending on the season, with the clearest conditions typically from late summer through early fall.
Can you dive in Cabo during the winter months?
Yes, winter diving in Cabo is excellent for whale watching and encountering cooler-water species, although you may want a thicker wetsuit (5mm recommended).
What are typical water temperatures in Cabo for diving?
Water temperatures range from 70°F (21°C) in winter months to around 85°F (29°C) during summer and early fall.
Booking, Payments & Cancellation
What is your cancellation policy?
Once you reserve a space, it becomes exclusively yours and cannot be sold to others. Therefore, cancellations without sufficient notice prevent us from filling that space. This policy is designed to recover part of the lost revenue.
Cabo San Lucas, Corridor, Gordo Banks, and Cabo Pulmo Trips:
Cancellations made more than 72 hours before the trip will receive a 95% refund; a 5% retainer fee covers credit card and bank processing fees. No refunds will be issued for “no shows” or cancellations made less than 72 hours before the trip.PADI Courses:
A $250 USD non-refundable deposit is required. Once we receive your deposit, we will purchase and send your PADI e-learning code, which is non-refundable and yours to keep. Please consult with your physician to ensure you are medically fit to dive before purchasing the e-learning code.Whale Shark Sea Lion (La Paz), Ocean Safari (La Ventana) and Gray Whales (Puerto Chale) Trips:
Cancellations made more than 7 days before the trip will receive a 95% refund. a 5% retainer fee covers credit card and bank processing fees. Cancellations made less than 7 days before the trip are non-refundable.Weather & Port Closures:
If East Cape Explorers cancels your trip due to weather or port closures, you may either reschedule (subject to availability) or receive a 100% refund of your deposit.Alcohol Policy:
We have a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and diving. Anyone showing signs of being hungover or under the influence of alcohol will not be allowed to dive and will not receive a refund.How do I book a dive tour or course with East Cape Explorers?
You can book directly through our website, by phone, or by email. A deposit is required to confirm your reservation.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, and offer a 10% discount for cash payments in USD or MXN.
Is a deposit required to book a dive trip or course?
Yes, a deposit is required to secure your booking, with the remaining balance due at check-in.
Marine Life in Baja
What marine animals can I see while diving in Cabo?
Divers often encounter sea lions, rays, turtles, reef fish, moray eels, and during the right seasons, whales and mobula rays.
When is the best time to see mobula rays in Baja?
Mobula ray season in Baja runs from May to July, when huge schools gather along the coastlines near La Ventana and the East Cape.
Can I see whale sharks while diving in Cabo?
Whale sharks are more commonly snorkeled with in La Paz, but occasionally they are spotted in the Sea of Cortez from late fall through early winter.
Are there sharks near Cabo dive sites?
Yes, especially at Gordo Banks, where divers can encounter schooling hammerhead sharks, silky sharks, and other pelagic species.
PADI Courses & Certifications
How long does it take to get PADI Open Water certified in Cabo?
Providing you have completed your eLearning before arriving to the shop, you can complete your PADI Open Water Diver course in about three days, including confined water sessions, and four ocean dives.
Do I need previous experience to enroll in a PADI course?
No experience is required for beginner courses like Discover Scuba Diving or Open Water certification — just basic swimming ability and good health.
Can I complete my PADI Referral Dives in Cabo?
Yes, if you’ve already completed your confined water training and theory elsewhere, you can finish your certification with us through PADI.
What is the minimum age to start scuba diving courses?
Children as young as 10 years old can enroll in the PADI Junior Open Water Diver course.
Diving & Snorkeling Trips Beyond San José del Cabo
How far is La Paz from San José del Cabo for a whale shark tour?
La Paz is about a two-hour drive from San José del Cabo, and our whale shark snorkel tours include round-trip transportation.
What can I expect on a snorkel tour to Cabo Pulmo?
Cabo Pulmo offers snorkeling with vibrant coral reefs, large schools of fish, and a chance to spot turtles and even bull sharks in crystal-clear waters.
Is Cabo Pulmo good for beginner divers and snorkelers?
Yes, Cabo Pulmo has shallow reefs ideal for beginners, although conditions can vary, so guidance from our dive team helps ensure the best experience.
When is the best time to snorkel with whale sharks in La Paz?
Whale shark season in La Paz typically runs from October to April, when these gentle giants migrate to the bay’s calm, nutrient-rich waters.