Socorro Islands
Giant oceanic mantas that come in close, far out in the Pacific.
At a glance
- Best months
- November to May, liveaboard season only
- Water
- 21–28°CAbout 26–28°C early in the season, 21–24°C in February and March
- Visibility
- 15–30 m
- Current
- StrongStrong, with surge on the pinnacles
- Certification
- AdvancedMinimum Advanced
- How you dive
- Liveaboard
When to go
November to May, liveaboard season only.
Overview
The Revillagigedo Islands, usually called Socorro, are a group of volcanic islands in the Pacific about a day's sail from Los Cabos. They are famous for giant oceanic manta rays that approach divers closely, as well as sharks, dolphins and, in winter, humpback whales.
The islands are a protected area and are reached only by liveaboard. Boats sail from about November to May, when manta and shark encounters are most reliable. Outside those months boats don't run.
These are open-ocean dives with strong current and surge around the pinnacles. Advanced certification and experience in current are recommended.
Who it suits
Advanced Open Water with experience in current and open ocean. Many boats ask for a minimum number of logged dives.
What you'll see
Know the risks
- Strong current and surge
- Long crossing from Los Cabos
- Very remote
Sources
- Liveaboard.com: When to visit Socorro
- Bluewater Dive Travel: Socorro liveaboards
- Scuba Diving: Manta rays at Socorro
Last reviewed 2026-10. Where sources disagree we use the more conservative range.