Shangri-La

Shangri-La is a shallow coral reef dive site located in the Playa del Carmen area of the Mexican Caribbean, widely regarded as one of the shallowest reefs in the area and a favourite among beginner divers and underwater photographers.

The reef reaches a maximum depth of 18 metres (60 feet) and is characterised by beautiful overhangs throughout its structure. Divers typically begin from the south and move north, keeping the reef to the left, encountering the overhangs from the very start of the dive.

Marine life at Shangri-La is diverse and rewarding for those who look carefully. Blue-striped grunts, schools of southern sennet, and occasional sea turtles are regularly seen, while the site is also home to miniature creatures such as seahorses and nudibranchs. The great biodiversity on offer makes it a standout destination for underwater photographers.