Deep, clear waters are home for the plentiful marine life, and it is quite common to encounter whale sharks here in addition to the normal sightings of turtles, Southern stingrays and occasional reef sharks. Whale sharks, particularly in the winter months, are often seen here too.

The main attractions of the Isle of Youth are its coral reefs, abundant marine life and the steep drop-offs and walls at Punta Frances - the Isle of Youth is a scuba diving paradise.  There are even a couple of wrecks here too - a fishing trawler and a commercial vessel sitting in shallow waters of about 12m at right angles to each other following a bow to bow collision. The depth and clear waters make these superb dives!