Cedar Pass - Cozumel

Gary's Wall is one of those spots where Grand Cayman really shows off. The mooring pin sits a bit deeper, around 25 metres, and then the wall just falls away. We love how the reef forms these dramatic fingers, with sandy channels carving paths between them, almost like underwater canyons. The coral formations along the top are a real highlight, full of overhangs that beg for a closer look. We’ve seen plenty of interesting things tucked into these nooks – Caribbean chestnut morays peering out, and often little blackfin blennies or roughhead triplefins hiding in plain sight. Keep an eye out on the sand for a sand stargazer, they're always a treat. Visibility here is usually excellent, around 24 metres, which makes drifting along the wall feel incredibly expansive. It's a superb dive for anyone who appreciates the drama of a sheer drop-off, offering chances to spot larger pelagics passing by in the blue, or just to spend time hunting for the smaller, more unusual critters hiding in the wall's many crevices.

Location
Cozumel, Mexico, North America
Coordinates
20.360300, -87.031300
Type
wall

Marine Protected Area: Arrecifes de Cozumel

Best Time to Dive in Cozumel

The warmest water temperatures in Cozumel occur in September, averaging 29.8°C (up to 32.1°C). The coolest conditions are in February at 26.9°C.

The calmest sea conditions are typically in September with average wave heights of 0.70m. Average current speed: 95.0 cm/s.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.2°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • February: 26.9°C (air: 26.4°C)
  • March: 27.0°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • April: 27.5°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • May: 28.4°C (air: 28.2°C)
  • June: 29.0°C (air: 28.8°C)
  • July: 29.4°C (air: 29.4°C)
  • August: 29.6°C (air: 29.5°C)
  • September: 29.8°C (air: 29.5°C)
  • October: 29.6°C (air: 29.0°C)
  • November: 28.8°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • December: 27.9°C (air: 26.8°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Cozumel

Nearest Dive Centres to Cedar Pass

Marine Life in Cozumel

Home to 181 recorded species including 140 reef fish, 15 hard corals, 9 other, 7 sharks & rays, 3 seagrass & algae, 2 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Cedar Pass

Based on average water temperature of 28.4°C, visibility 23 nmi, currents 87 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins (stiff blade recommended for strong currents)
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Cedar Pass (Paseo del Cedral Reef) in Cozumel?
Diving at Cedar Pass (Paseo del Cedral Reef) in Cozumel typically involves a maximum depth of 19 meters (60 feet). This is considered a shallow dive, making it an excellent choice for beginning divers. The accessible depth allows for extended bottom times and comfortable exploration.
What kind of marine life and coral formations can divers expect to see at Cedar Pass in Cozumel?
Divers at Cedar Pass can expect to encounter a rich variety of marine life, including spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, moray eels, and tons of reef fish. A highlight is the endemic Splendid toadfish, found only in Cozumel. The site's landscape features tight little coves and crevices, providing excellent hiding spots for schools of fish and making it a favorite among photographers.
Is Cedar Pass in Cozumel considered a difficult dive site, suitable for all skill levels or only experienced divers?
Cedar Pass in Cozumel is generally considered suitable for a range of skill levels, including beginning divers, due to its shallow maximum depth of 19 meters (60 feet). While categorized as an intermediate dive, its accessible depth and protected landscape make it a welcoming site for those new to diving. It offers a great experience without extreme challenges.
What are the best months or times of year to dive Cedar Pass in Cozumel for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Our current data for Cedar Pass does not specify the best months or times of year for optimal conditions and marine encounters. For general information on diving seasons in the region, you might consult our When to Dive guide. Local dive operators can also provide up-to-date seasonal recommendations.
What scuba diving certifications are typically required to dive at Cedar Pass in Cozumel?
The provided data for Cedar Pass in Cozumel does not specify exact certification requirements. However, most dive operators typically require a minimum of an Open Water Diver certification for guided dives at sites like this. Given its suitability for beginning divers, this certification should be sufficient.
How strong are the currents at Cedar Pass in Cozumel, and what are the typical water conditions like for diving?
Our current data for Cedar Pass in Cozumel does not provide specific details on current strength. However, divers can generally expect excellent water clarity, with an average visibility of 27 meters. This superb visibility enhances the experience of exploring the site's unique landscape and marine life.