Chun Chacaaab Reef - Cozumel

Chun Chacaaab Reef is a site we always make time for in Cozumel, especially if we’re looking to escape the usual crowds further south. It’s got a genuine laid-back feel, a place where you can just drift and observe. We often spot the big parrotfish here, those impressive Dark Green Parrotfish with their striking colours, munching away at the coral. Look closely among the nooks and crannies and you’ll likely find a Caribbean Chestnut Moray peeking out, or the shy Candy Basslet darting into cover. What we really love about Chun Chacaaab is the sheer variety of smaller stuff. You'll see Eyed Flounder perfectly camouflaged on the sandy patches, and the intricate patterns of a Spotted Trunkfish are always a treat. Our favourite is watching the Yellowhead Wrasse diligently cleaning other fish, a mini drama playing out right in front of you. It’s a site that rewards a slow, observant dive. Come here for a relaxed pace, where the current is usually gentle, allowing you to really soak in the smaller details rather than just zipping past.

Location
Cozumel, Mexico, North America
Coordinates
20.277334, -87.011375
Type
reef

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 Chun Chacaaab Reef

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 Chun Chacaaab Reef

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