Did you know that you can plant coral in Cozumel?
If you’re planning a scuba diving trip to Cozumel, you probably already know about its world-famous reefs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. But did you know that you can also help restore Cozumel’s coral reefs while diving?
I didn’t either—until Mexican field research permit for raccoons got denied and I had to find something else to do for two weeks. That’s when I discovered the Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program, a nonprofit dedicated to restoring the island’s coral reefs, which have been devastated by over-tourism, pollution, and climate change.
If you love the ocean and want to experience one of the most unique and meaningful scuba diving activities in Cozumel, you need to check this place out.
Why Do Cozumel's Coral Reefs Need Help
Cozumel’s reefs are in trouble. As of 2025, the island has lost over 90% of its coral reefs due to:
- Over-tourism and cruise ship pollution
- Invasive species and coral-killing diseases brought in by ships
- Unregulated resort development, leading to untreated wastewater contaminating the ocean
- Algae overgrowth, which smothers and kills coral faster than it can grow
But the Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program is fighting back, and they need volunteer divers to help.
How You Can Help: SCUBA Dive, Learn, and Plant Coral in Cozumel
You don’t need to be a marine biologist to volunteer with coral in Cozumel—they’ll teach you everything you need to know. Since its launch in 2017, the program has built 29 coral restoration platforms and planted over 10,000 coral fragments, giving new life to Cozumel’s fragile reef ecosystem.
As a visiting diver, you have several ways to get involved:
1. Take the PADI Coral Reef Conservation Course
Out of the 220 dive shops in Cozumel, this is the Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program is the only place on the island that offers the PADI Coral Reef Conservation specialty course. It’s an eye-opening experience that will change the way you see coral reefs forever. If you’re the kind of person who gets fired up about ocean conservation, this course is for you.
2. Volunteer and Join a Coral Restoration Dive
If you’re already scuba certified and have taken the coral reef conservation course, you can volunteer to dive with the program to:
- Plant and care for coral
- Remove harmful algae (trust me, it’s a bigger problem than you’d think)
- Observe the marine life that thrives in the restoration sites
You’ll be working alongside marine conservationists, getting hands-on experience while helping rebuild the reefs.
3. Get Your PADI Scuba Certification in Cozumel
Not certified yet? No problem! The Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program offers PADI Open Water certification courses. That’s what I did! My instructors, Dr. German and Michelle, were fantastic—even though I was terrified at first, they helped me power through it.
Once you’re certified, you can volunteer for coral restoration dives, making your very first certified dives meaningful and impactful.
Only Visiting Cozumel For a Day?
If you’re in Cozumel on a cruise stop, you may not have time to take a full PADI course. No worries—they also offer educational scuba and snorkel tours. These trips still teach you about Cozumel’s marine ecosystem while giving you a chance to experience the beauty of the reefs.
Even if you can’t plant coral, learning about the reefs and their challenges makes a huge difference. Every informed traveler helps spread awareness!
Want to Volunteer But Don’t Have Your Own Scuba Gear?
The research lab provides all the diving equipment you’ll need, so there’s no need to lug your own gear to Cozumel. The only small cost is $3 for a tank rental at Sand Dollar Sports—yes, you read that right, just three dollars for an entire dive!
Why You Should Add This to Your Cozumel Itinerary
- Dive in one of the world’s most famous reefs
- Help restore coral and protect marine life
- Learn about marine conservation from experts
- Get PADI certified
- Experience a side of Cozumel most tourists never see
Want To Get Involved?
Visit the Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program to learn more about their volunteer opportunities, dive courses, and conservation efforts. The reefs need us—and this is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Cozumel underwater.
