Mako sharks are one of the fastest and most exhilarating predators to encounter underwater. If you're looking for the best places to dive with mako sharks, San Diego (California, USA), Baja California (Mexico), the Azores (Portugal), and South Africa offer some of the top locations for sightings. These destinations provide open-water and cage diving experiences, allowing divers to observe makos in their natural habitat. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the best locations, peak seasons, safety tips, required certifications, and top tour operators to help you plan your mako shark diving adventure.

Best Locations To Dive With Mako Sharks

San Diego, California (USA)

San Diego is one of the best places in the U.S. for shortfin mako shark encounters. These sharks follow prey closer to shore from June to November, making sightings common. Many dive operators offer open-water pelagic shark dives, where divers may also see blue sharks.

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The Azores (Portugal)

The Azores archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean is a prime destination for mako shark diving. The deep waters surrounding these islands attract makos, particularly from July to October. This location is ideal for drift diving, providing close encounters with fast-moving predators.

Rhode Island (USA)

During summer and early fall, Rhode Island’s offshore waters become a hotspot for mako and blue sharks. Divers can join scuba or freediving expeditions in the open ocean. Some operators use chumming techniques to increase the chances of shark sightings.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Cabo San Lucas is a top location for mako and blue shark encounters. The short boat rides, clear waters, and rich marine life make it an attractive destination. Mako sharks are commonly seen from December to April, when water temperatures are lower.

Cape Town, South Africa

The waters south of Cape Point are known for attracting mako and blue sharks. Cape Town offers both open-water and cage diving experiences, making it a great option for all experience levels. The best time for mako sightings is November to April.

Palau (Micronesia)

Palau is a remote Pacific island nation with diverse marine life, including mako sharks. It was the first country to create a shark sanctuary, ensuring protection for various shark species. Makos are usually seen in deeper offshore waters, making this an adventure suited for experienced divers.

Best Time To See Mako Sharks

Peak Season and Locations

The best time to see mako sharks varies by region. The peak season in Baja California, Mexico, is February to April, while in San Diego, California, the best months are April to November. The Azores and South Africa offer sightings from November to April.

Water Conditions That Attract Mako Sharks

Mako sharks prefer warm, clear waters with plenty of prey. In Baja California, autumn temperatures can reach 82°F (28°C), attracting makos to feeding grounds. Areas with high tuna populations also tend to have more frequent sightings.

How Safe Is It To Dive With Mako Sharks?

Understanding Mako Shark Behavior

Mako sharks are the fastest sharks in the ocean, capable of speeds up to 45 mph. Their high energy and curiosity make them thrilling to encounter, but they can exhibit sudden, unpredictable movements, especially around food sources.

Open-Water vs. Cage Diving

Some locations, like San Diego and Baja California, offer open-water dives, providing an unrestricted view of makos. However, these require proper training and awareness. In places like South Africa, cage diving offers additional protection for divers.

Essential Safety Tips

Maintain neutral buoyancy and avoid sudden movements.
Keep eye contact and remain aware of surroundings.
If a mako shark gets too close, stay calm and follow the guide’s instructions.
Always dive with experienced operators for safety and proper guidance.

Requirements For Diving With Mako Sharks

Certification And Experience Level Needed

Most mako shark dives require at least an Open Water certification, but Advanced Open Water is preferred for deeper dives. Beginners can join cage diving experiences, while open-water dives are better suited for experienced divers with strong buoyancy control.

Essential Gear And Equipment

Since mako shark dives often take place in deep, offshore waters, divers should use:
• 5mm–7mm wetsuits for cold waters; 3mm suits for warm waters.
• Low-profile dive masks, long fins, and full-face masks for comfort and visibility.
• A high-quality scuba tank for extended dive times. DedePu Dive offers lightweight, high-capacity tanks ideal for pelagic shark diving.

Can You Snorkel With Mako Sharks?

Yes, snorkeling with mako sharks is possible in Baja California and South Africa, where they can be seen at shallow depths. However, snorkelers must have strong swimming skills and follow strict safety guidelines, including staying calm and maintaining eye contact.

Ethical Considerations And Conservation Efforts

Are Mako Sharks Endangered?

Mako sharks are classified as Endangered due to overfishing and bycatch. Their slow reproduction rates make conservation crucial. Fishing bans and trade regulations aim to protect these sharks.

How To Choose Eco-Friendly Shark Diving Tours

Ethical shark diving operators follow conservation guidelines, avoid harmful chumming, and focus on educating divers about shark protection.

Should Chumming Be Used To Attract Mako Sharks?

While chumming can increase sightings, some experts argue it alters shark behavior and associates humans with food. Choosing operators that minimize baiting ensures a more ethical, natural experience.

Alternatives To Scuba Diving With Mako Sharks

Diving With Other Shark Species

• Bull Sharks: Fiji and Palau offer bull shark encounters in controlled conditions.
• Tiger Sharks: Tiger Beach (Bahamas) is famous for up-close tiger shark interactions.
• Hammerhead Sharks: The Maldives and Costa Rica host large schools of scalloped hammerheads.

Final Thoughts

Diving with mako sharks is an exhilarating experience, with top locations including California, Mexico, the Azores, and South Africa. Whether you prefer open-water or cage diving, choosing a reputable operator and following safety guidelines ensures a safe and unforgettable adventure. By supporting conservation-minded dive operators, divers help protect these incredible sharks for future generations.