The coral reef system surrounding Los Roques is among the most intact in the Caribbean, protected within a national park since 1972. The diving and snorkelling are excellent: healthy hard and soft coral gardens, clear water with visibility commonly exceeding 20 metres, and strong fish populations including sea turtles, rays, and large schools of tropical fish.
Snorkelling directly off the beaches of the outer cays is worthwhile without any boat trip, as the reef begins close to shore in many places. For diving, the wall dives on the ocean side of the outer barrier and the drift dives through the channels between cays offer more dramatic experiences. Several dive operators are based in Gran Roque, ranging from small family operations to more organised centres with multiple boats.