Gordo Banks – Cabo San Lucas & Los Cabos

Site Overview

Gordo Banks is an offshore seamount rising from the deep ocean floor south of Cabo San Lucas that serves as a magnet for large pelagic species including schooling hammerhead sharks, yellowfin tuna, blue marlin, and silky sharks in one of Baja's most exciting advanced diving experiences. The submerged pinnacle rises from depths exceeding 100 metres to within 10 metres of the surface, creating an underwater island that concentrates ocean life from the smallest baitfish to the largest predators. During the summer and autumn months, schools of scalloped hammerheads numbering dozens to hundreds of individuals circle the seamount, their distinctive silhouettes against the deep blue water creating images that define pelagic diving. Yellowfin tuna and dorado hunt in the blue water above the pinnacle while silky sharks patrol the deeper slopes. Spotted eagle rays glide past on the current while enormous groupers rest on the rocky substrate. The 45-minute boat ride across open ocean adds an element of adventure and expedition atmosphere that filters for committed divers seeking truly remote pelagic encounters. Surface conditions must be favourable for both the transit and the diving, making weather monitoring essential and cancellations common during the winter months. For those who make the journey, Gordo Banks delivers the kind of big-animal diving that justifies the effort and expense, with the hammerhead schools being the undisputed highlight that draws divers from around the world to this remote corner of the Sea of Cortez.