As a result of joint efforts by scientists, fishermen and government, the reef and beaches of Cabo Pulmo were declared a Protected Natural Reserve,  a National Park designation in 1995. Cabo Pulmo has an area of 7,111 hectares (8.1 miles long by 5.6 miles at its widest point).

Ten years later, UNESCO recognized Cabo Pulmo as a World Heritage Site and was designated as a Ramsar wetland site of international importance in 2008.

The live coral reef rests on basalt bars on the seafloor. Throughout the year, the park's marine biodiversity changes depending on the season.  Migratory species use the area for food, shelter and breeding.