Scuba Diving at Punta Negra: A Relaxed Drift Along a Vibrant Reef
- Tracy Sharlene Gunn
- Dec 19
- 3 min read
Punta Negra Reef is one of the most visually striking and biologically rich reefs in the area. Known for its long coral overhang, gentle to moderate current, and excellent light penetration, it offers a smooth, relaxing drift dive with consistently high marine life density. This is a favourite site for photographers and certified divers looking for an easy, rewarding reef dive.
What Makes This Dive Special
Punta Negra is shaped by a long, continuous reef edge that runs in alignment with the prevailing current. This natural layout allows divers to simply settle into the drift and follow the coral-covered overhang as the reef unfolds effortlessly alongside them.
The overhang provides shelter and structure, creating a thriving ecosystem. Sponges, hard corals, and fan corals grow densely along the wall, while the clear Caribbean water allows sunlight to penetrate deeply, illuminating the reef and enhancing colours. The result is a site that feels alive, vibrant, and remarkably photogenic.
Unlike more complex or broken reef systems, Punta Negra offers a clean, flowing profile. Divers can stay close to the reef edge or venture slightly outward to spot pelagic species cruising past. A few natural swim-throughs add interest without increasing difficulty, making the dive engaging yet comfortably accessible.
Our Experience
Punta Negra consistently delivers one of the richest concentrations of Caribbean marine life in a relatively compact area. It’s common to see a wide variety of species on a single dive, from small reef fish to larger animals moving with the current.
The dive feels calm and unhurried, even when the current is present — a perfect example of why drift diving in this region can be both relaxing and exciting at the same time.
Who This Dive Is For
Punta Negra is ideal if you want:
A gentle, scenic drift dive along a healthy reef
Excellent conditions for underwater photography
High biodiversity in a shallow, accessible site
A relaxed dive suitable for Open Water certified divers and above
Marine Life Highlights
Angelfish and schooling reef fish
Barracudas and pompanos
Nurse sharks and rays
Green and hawksbill turtles
Moray eels, lobsters, and large crabs
Occasional reef sharks passing through
Dive Details
Depth
16 meters / 52 feet
Boat Ride
25 min
Dive Type
Reef
Drift
Swim through, Tunnels, Arches
Experience Level
Divers - Entry Level, and all levels of certified divers
Average Visibility Underwater
20-30 mt / 66-99 feet
Average Water Temp
28 C°/ 82F°
Dive Time
Approx 45 min
📩 Message us to book a tour or ask about certifications — we’re always happy to chat diving!
Tracy Gunn is the founder and owner of Pocna Dive Center on Isla Mujeres, Mexico. A former banker turned adventurer, Tracy left a decade-long corporate career to pursue her passion for diving and island life. With over 35 years of diving experience and 24 years of living on Isla Mujeres, she now serves as a PADI Course Director, training the next generation of divers at her dive school. When she’s not underwater, Tracy shares her love for the island and the ocean through engaging blogs about diving, marine life, and the culture of Isla Mujeres.
Interested in reading more from this author?
Blogs about Isla Mujeres, Mexico, and Recreational Scuba Diving: click here
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