When Jacques Cousteau first visited Cozumel in 1962, it didn't take long to declare it one of the world's most spectacular destinations for scuba diving and snorkeling. The Island is part of the world's second largest barrier reef, and is considered the "Diving Capital of Latin America." With 80 feet of visibility year-round and transparent, turquoise waters, divers will find a variety of underwater landscapes from reefs to walls to thrilling drift dives.

Located east of Quintana Roo off the coast of Mexico in the Caribbean Sea, Cozumel is one of the country's safest and relaxing cities. It is also Mexico's most visited island, drawing more than 4.5 million visitors per year.

Recognized as part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves, Cozumel is surrounded by more than 40 dive sites teaming with tropical fish and a kaleidoscope of colorful corals. Divers of all skill levels can explore the limestone caves, inspiring underwater cliffs, intriguing caverns, dramatic depths and idyllic shallows reefs. With more than 30 reefs ranging in depth from 15 to 90 feet, divers will encounter a variety of marine life, including moray eels, sea turtles, nurse sharks, giant anemone, great groupers, parrotfish, the endemic "Splendid Toad Fish" and so much more.

On-site dive centers are located on many of the resort properties, where beginner divers will find an abundance of house reefs, perfect for practicing buoyancy and navigation skills. Those looking for advanced dive sites should check out Colombia Reef or Punta Sur Reef, located on Cozumel's southern tip.

Palancar Reef is another can't miss dive destination in the warm waters of Cozumel. Offering exciting swim-throughs and highly decorated over hangs, this reef is great for all levels of divers. Located in the most popular region for divers, it's depth ranges from 50-110 feet, boasting an array of colorful corals that any underwater photographer would want to capture.

Rated among top dive destinations for its exceptional wall diving, Cozumel is home to famed sites like Colombia Wall, Santa Rosa Wall, Maracaibo Wall and Paradise (Paraiso) Reef, among others. Cozumel's constant South to North water current makes it convenient for divers to jump off the boat, explore the underwater panorama adrift with the current and ascend to find the boat waiting at the surface. Because of this, Cozumel is also known as the drift-diving capital of the world.

Not only is there excitement underwater, but the island also offers topside adventure for nature lovers. Learn about a variety of exotic migratory birds and giant sea turtles who lay their eggs from May to September on Cozumel's beaches. With a convention center and 60 hotel properties, many offering on-site dive operators, Cozumel is ranked as one of the top dive destinations based on value, visibility and advanced diving.

Whether you're looking for excitement below or above the sea, Cozumel is a must-visit destination for any certified diver. To book your next adventure to Cozumel, visit cozumel.travel