Yellow House Reef Cozumel Dive Site
Dive Overview
- Depth: 35’ – 50’
- Experience Level: Beginner
- Typical Dive Order: Usually done as a second dive
About Yellow House Reef
Yellow House Reef, also known as No Name Reef, is located between Santa Rosa Reef and San Francisco Reef in Cozumel. Approximately 500 meters long and sitting around 50 feet deep, this growing reef offers a unique look at reef regeneration and marine recovery.
More than 20 years ago, hurricanes heavily impacted this area, leaving it nearly covered in sand. Over time, hard corals established themselves on stable substrate, followed by rapid growth of rope sponges and soft corals. Today, Yellow House Reef continues to evolve and expand.
This reef is considered more of a transition reef rather than one with permanent dense fish populations. However, coral and sponge growth steadily increases year after year.
Dive Conditions & Considerations
- Long sand crossings if starting from outside the reef
- Good air consumption recommended if continuing toward San Francisco Reef
- Not commonly visited by dive shops due to distance
- Can be more challenging if crossing sand for extended distances
Marine Life You May See
| Marine Life | Common | Occasional | Rare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Damselfish | X | ||
| Barracuda | X | ||
| Grouper / Coney | X | ||
| Scrawled Filefish | X | ||
| Honeycombed Cowfish | X | ||
| Spotted Drums | X | ||
| Spotted Moray Eels | X | ||
| Angelfish | X | ||
| Butterflyfish | X | ||
| Sea Horse | X | ||
| Parrotfish | X | ||
| Scorpionfish | X | ||
| Splendid Toadfish | X | ||
| Grunts and Snappers | X | ||
| Turtles | X | ||
| Nurse Sharks | X | ||
| Spotted Eagle Rays | X | ||
| Black Groupers | X | ||
| Green Moray Eels | X |
Why Dive Yellow House Reef?
Yellow House Reef offers divers the opportunity to witness a reef in recovery and active growth. While not known for heavy fish density, it provides a peaceful dive with expanding coral structures and sponges. Divers with strong air consumption can combine it with a drift toward San Francisco Reef for a longer underwater experience.
