Diving in Spain

The Medes Islands – These small islands just off the coast of L’Estartit on the Costa Brava and are among the best Mediterranean dive sites. The islands are protected as a marine reserve and this, combined with the region’s popularity with divers, has made many of the fish relatively unafraid and approachable. The visibility is normally very good. The Balearic Islands – East of the Spanish mainland, these stunning islands benefit from a lush Mediterranean climate that is conducive to year round diving. From the four main islands there are more than 80 dramatic sites that invite divers into crystal clear waters that boast beautiful caves, caverns, great boulders and limestone cliffs. There are also wrecks, like the Don Pedro off Ibiza. At 142 metres/465 feet in length, it's the Mediterranean’s largest shipwreck. Diving in the Balearics comes with visibility that averages 30 metres/98 feet and water temperatures of up to 75°F/24°C in the summer. Baix Empordà of Catalonia - Just off Far de Sant Sebastià, Ullastres I, II and III are rock pinnacles reaching to within 7 metres/23 feet of the surface. They are draped in colorful gorgonians and are home to prolific sea bass, mackerel, wrasse and nudibranchs. There are also several wrecks that passed too close, struck the rocks, and sank. Furió Fitó - Located just off of the Cape of Begur is one of the Mediterranean coast’s most amazing underwater rock formations. This enormous submerged massif begins at 14 metres/45 feet before dropping down to 55 metres/180 feet. The north wall features gigantic gorgonians and incredibly colorful coral formations. This area also hosts octopus, snapper, grouper and rays. Murcia and Islas Hormigas Marine Park - This could arguably be the best place to dive in Spain for the sheer abundance and variety of marine life. The park is home to huge groupers, shoals of barracuda, octopus, moray eels and eagle rays as well as nudibranchs and the occasional sunfish. From August to October, huge bait balls attract pelagic fish, such as tuna, common dentex and jacks, resulting in spectacular feeding frenzies. You can also dive several world-class shipwrecks within the park. Canary Islands – Due to their location and climate, it is possible to dive year round off the seven Canary Islands. There are hundreds of unforgettable dive sites with abundant and colorful marine flora and fauna and dramatic underwater landscapes. Don’t miss the Museo Atlantico on Lanzarote, an underwater museum opened in March 2016. The Canary Islands are bathed by the Gulf Stream, which keeps the water temperature between 17-18°C/63-64°F in winter and around 23°C/73°F in summer. The water is exceptionally clear, making this a great spot for underwater photographers.