Bullsharks are one of the most famous types of sharks in the world, often for the wrong reasons. In spite of being considered an aggressive kind of shark, we have been diving with them in Playa del Carmen for over 20 years and haven’t seen any attacks. It’s a privileged area to see them because the females come into the mangrove to give birth and stay here with their offspring between November and March. It’s a deep and almost static dive during which we can see many of those female sharks swimming around us.
When to dive for Bull Sharks
November-March in particular are the best months for bull shark sightings.
We meet at Coco Beach, Playa del Carmen & gear-up.
We will have a dive briefing on the shore, and then get on the boat.
The boat departs and come back right from the beach.
We will do two dives, the first one with the Bull sharks and the second one in a coral reef nearby.
This activity doesn’t include lunch or transportation because it’s carried out in downtown Playa del Carmen.
















Frequently Asked Questions about diving with Bull Sharks in Playa del Carmen
Diving with bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas) is one of the most thrilling, adrenaline-fueled, and sought-after underwater encounters on the Quintana Roo coast. These majestic apex predators—mostly pregnant females—arrive in the shallow waters just off the coast of Playa del Carmen every winter, drawn by the dropping water temperatures and an abundance of food. The official season typically runs from November through March.
Because these are deep dives (usually between 80 to 100 feet / 24 to 30 meters) in an open-ocean environment exposed to changing currents, safety protocols are strictly enforced. We require divers to hold at least an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or possess verifiable experience in deep diving, alongside excellent buoyancy control and efficient air consumption. The dive is executed following clear passive-interaction guidelines: we position ourselves statically on the sandy bottom, observing the sharks as they swim naturally around us. Bright or high-contrast wetsuits are not permitted; all gear (including fins and masks) must be dark-colored to maintain a respectful, controlled, and completely safe environment during the encounter.
Yes, you can take underwater photos and videos during the Bull Shark dive in Playa del Carmen, but you must follow strict equipment and safety rules.
• No big camera rigs: Large setups with extra arms, trays, and heavy mounts are not allowed underwater.
• Compact cameras allowed: You can bring standard cameras or action cameras (like a GoPro) inside a proper housing.
• No selfie sticks: Long camera poles, selfie sticks, or extension sticks are strictly banned because sharks might mistake them for food.
• No flashes or strobes: Using artificial flash or video lights is prohibited as it can disturb or startle the sharks.
• Dark gear only: Photographers and divers must wear plain, dark blue or black wetsuits and avoid flashy or bright equipment.
• Stay in position: The dive involves kneeling or staying still on the sandy bottom at roughly 70 to 90 feet deep, so you must keep your buoyancy under control without chasing the animals.